The realm of the 7-seater 4x4 is dominated by the perennial Toyota Fortuner and is only truly challenged by the likes of the Ford Everest and Mitsubishi Pajero Sport. Seldom does one's mind carry to the Isuzu mu-X. This 7-seater 4x4 has all the makings of a true contender and draws inspiration from the Isuzu Frontier and Tropper prior to that.
Related: Isuzu mu-X (2020) review: Off-road mission to Kromrivier
The mu-X utilizes the Isuzu D-Max (KB) underpinnings and offers three rows of seating and turbodiesel power. The model is due to be refreshed with a new mu-X set to launch at the end of 2021. Before we see those breaking ground, we thought we'd look at 5 of the highlights of the existing mu-X as you're bound to be able to pick up a great run-out deal between now and then.
1. Powerplant
The Isuzu mu-X is powered by a 3-litre, 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine that produces 130 kW and 380 Nm. While not necessarily the most powerful powerplant in the segment, it does have the largest displacement and for some, that still counts for something.
2. Towing
Those with larger caravans, boats or even racecars, will know that finding a respectable towing vehicle is not easy. The Isuzu mu-X is capable of towing 750 kg of unbraked, standard fare for this segment. It's also capable of towing a load of 3 000 kg when connected to a braked trailer, ideal for those boats and cars.
3. Rear end
While off-road purists will scoff at the idea of a fully independent suspension, those that want to eat up miles and miles of highway will know that a fully independent setup is the way to go. The Isuzu mu-X is equipped not only with a fully independent setup but makes use of a 5-link rear end that ensures that the suspension geometry remains true no matter what surface you're on.
4. Traction
Sending power to the wheels that have the most traction is critical when driving off-road. The mu-X is available with an optional Eaton MLocker differential set that acts like a limited-slip differential and requires no additional input in order to lock. As soon as wheel speeds vary by more than 100 RPM, Eaton MLocker engages and distributes power equally.
5. Price
Possibly the most appealing aspect of the Isuzu mu-X is the pricing. The top-of-the-range model will set you back a mere R770 400* and when one compares apples with apples, the competition costs significantly more. The mu-X is also backed by a comprehensive 5-year / 120 000 km warranty and a 5-year / 90 000 km service plan.
*pricing correct at the time of publishing and subject to change without notice.
