Since General Motors left the country in 2017, there has been a void left behind in certain vehicle segments, however, Isuzu continues to offer vehicles in the LCV and SUV categories. Based on the Chevrolet Trailblazer, the Isuzu mu-X serves as a big 7-seat, family SUV which competes with the likes of Toyota's Fortuner and the Ford Everest.
Related: New Isuzu mu-X upgrade and facelift for 2020 - What's different?
Recently the mu-X made headlines again after it received an upgrade as well as a facelift. Currently on offer in the new form are two derivatives, both fitted with a 3.0-litre, turbocharged, 4-cylinder diesel motor, however, the flagship model featuring 4x4 capability. The engine in the Isuzu mu-X produce 130 kW and 380 Nm of torque and is sent through a 6-speed automatic transmission.
Both derivatives of the Isuzu mu-X come standard with ABS brakes with brake assist, six airbags, hill-start assist, hill descent control and ISOFIX mounting points at the rear. Further bolstering the package is a large 8-inch colour touchscreen as standard equipment with a 9-inch optionally available. The infotainment system is Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatible and includes navigation, Bluetooth, USB input as well as AUX input.
Warranty and service plan
The Isuzu mu-X is sold with a very competitive 5-year / 120 000 km warranty which trumps both of its competitors in either warranty range or time-frame. Also included in the purchase price is a 5-year / 90 000 km service plan which ensures that your vehicle receives the care and attention it deserves.
Inclusions
The warranty on the Isuzu mu-X is a "bumper-to-bumper" cover to ensure that not only mechanical components are covered, but also interior electronics for example. Provided the owner adheres to the service schedule set out in the vehicle's owner manual, and all services are executed by an Isuzu dealership, should anything go wrong on your mu-X the warranty will cover the cost of the component and the labour involved in replacing the part.
Exclusions
Vehicles such as the Isuzu mu-X is assembled using thousands of components. Knowing that almost all of it is covered by the warranty brings peace of mind, however, owners should take note that some components will fall into wear and tear category and will not be covered.
These items will usually sustain a reasonable amount of wear and tear during use and as such will usually need replacing far quicker than other parts. These usually include brake discs and pads, filters and lubricants as well as shock absorbers. Tyres also fall outside of the warranty period but should you experience abnormal wear, contact the tyre manufacturer as there could be warranties in place.
Also not covered are items fitted after the vehicle was specified during the purchase stage. Thus if you are considering aftermarket wheels, bumpers or even nudge bars, these items will not be covered by the warranty. Furthermore, the onus is on the owner to find out which items can be fitted without it compromising the warranty on original parts they are fitted to, for example, aftermarket wheels could void the warranty on suspension components.
Accident damage does not fall under warranty claims. If the vehicle was involved in an accident, these parts need to be replaced or repaired through an insurance claim. If left too long, damaged parts could cause increased wear or even failure of other components which is why it is always a good idea to have your vehicle repaired as soon as possible.
Services
As mentioned earlier, all services need to be conducted by an official Isuzu dealership as this ensures the quality of the work executed. Furthermore, Isuzu will only fit genuine parts which also carry a 1-year / unlimited-kilometre warranty. Using specialised diagnostic equipment, technicians can identify a problem with a particular component and can take preventative measures to ensure the proper operation of the vehicle and the safety of the occupants.