What is the cheapest Isuzu mu-X you can buy?

The Isuzu mu-X, a D-Max-based SUV, has a lot to offer buyers. With its last update in 2023, the brand added more features to lure potential customers to Isuzu showrooms.

If you're interested in buying a new mu-X, there are a variety of models to choose from, and you don't have to spend too much to access the comfort features and modern technology.

Isuzu's mu-X is often overlooked, but it deserves much more attention.

What is the most affordable model in the lineup?

Suppose you're not going to do any crazy bundu-bashing, and you want a comfortable seven-seater for driving kids to school, getting to work and back and taking a few family holidays or weekends away. In that case, the most affordable model is the Isuzu mu-X 1.9TD LS at R736 900. 

You'd never guess this is the 'poverty spec' model, right?

This rear-wheel-driven, 1.9TD mu-X is the latest addition to the Isuzu lineup, and it's your perfect daily driver for bigger families.

It has 110kW and 350Nm of torque, and fuel consumption is rated at a mere 7 L/100 km (Isuzu's figure). The brand says you'll be able to get around 1 140 km from a full tank if you drive sensibly. (To play it safe, we reckon +/-1000 km from its 80-litre tank is doable.)

You don't even have to stir the gearbox because it is fitted with a smooth-shifting 6-speed automatic transmission.

The seats are covered in leather in all models, making it perfect for families.

What do you get for your money?

Just because it's the entry-level model doesn't mean it is sparsely specified. We think it offers excellent value because look at all the tech and features:

Safety

ABS, EBD, electric parking brake, hill-start assist, a rear diff-lock, traction and stability control, hill-descent control, 7 Airbags, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and Bluetooth, Isofix, LED lights and DRLs, headlight levelling, park distance control in the front and rear, a rearview camera, rear privacy glass, and rain-sensing windscreen wipers.

The steering wheel view of the entry-level mu-X is covered in leather, and the large touchscreen is standard across the board.

Comfort spec: a height/depth-adjustable leather steering wheel with satellite buttons, leather seats, cruise control, a 6-speaker sound system, USB ports in the front and rear, keyless entry and start, electric windows and mirrors, lumbar support for the driver's seat, a large front armrest cubby, folding rear seats, and even side steps. A 7-inch touchscreen handles infotainment.

The mu-X, also the LS model, still offers a decent amount of space when all seats are in an upright position.

This model has a towing capacity of 2100 kg (braked), and 750kg unbraked, so you can still tow a bush tailer or boat, as long as it doesn't exceed this limit.

Every mu-X is sold with a 5-year/90 000 km service plan and a 5-year/120 000 km warranty.

GWM Tank 300 vs Mitsubishi Pajero Sport vs. Isuzu mu-X (2024)

Want more power?

If the 1.9TD is too mild for you, there are plenty of 3.0TD models to choose from:

The Isuzu mu-X 3.0TD LS is priced at R836 600, while the 3.0TD LSE will cost you R974 100. (All 3.0TD models have an output of 140kW and 450Nm and a braked towing capacity of 3500 kg.)

The Isuzu mu-X 3.0TD LS 4x4 costs R922 300. 

Next up is the mu-X 3.0TD LSE 4x4 at R953 800, and the flagship in the range is the mu-X 3.0TD Onyx 4x4 with a price tag of R978 200.

All but the entry-level LS model have the larger, 9-inch touchscreen.

The 3.0TD models pack a meatier punch if you need to tow a large caravan.

Read Sean's mu-X review from 2022 here.

Should you buy one?

After spending a week with one recently, the answer is yes! It's a wonderful, capable, and comfortable SUV, and if you can't afford a brand new model, check out our listings to look for a pre-loved model here.