Isuzu introduced the latest evolution of the MU-X locally with the latest model line-up raising the bar with improved styling, upgraded technology and safety, and refined driving dynamics. The range is also being bolstered with the addition of a new flagship model, the 3.0-litre 4x4 ONYX XT.
What is it?
The MU-X is Isuzu’s adventurous sport utility vehicle (SUV) with key strengths in its levels of comfort, convenience and luxury while rugged enough for serious off-roading.
Exterior:
The front end has been completely reimagined with a new bumper, restyled grille, redesigned ISUZU badge and a sharper, more aggressive headlamp cluster. These LED headlamps, featuring bi-beam technology, LED daytime running lights and repositioned fog lamps enhance visibility.
At the rear, updates include a revised bumper, a new tailgate design, the introduction of a mid-level spoiler, and new badging. The advanced new combination LED taillights are now linked by a distinctive tailgate garnish.
New wheel designs further enhance the new MU-X’s visual appeal, with robust 18-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels for the LS and LSE models and striking 20-inch wheels on the all-new ONYX XT.
Interior:
Inside, the MU-X’s cabin has been updated, the dashboard has been revamped with new interior colours for the doors and armrests, along with reworked leather seat patterns, which enhance the premium feel.
The infotainment system has been upgraded with a high-resolution nine-inch display, featuring a piano black finish, two rotary dials and five touch-sensitive switches.
The LS models retain an analogue reversing camera, while the LSE and ONYX XT gain a new digital 360-degree Surround View Monitor to significantly enhance all-round visibility. The system utilises four strategically placed cameras – front, rear and on each side mirror – to provide a comprehensive view of the vehicle’s surroundings.
There is a redesigned seven-inch multi-information display (MID) within the driver’s instrument cluster.
The suspension has also been revised, with larger diameter shock absorbers providing a smoother, more composed ride across both urban and off-road environments.
The ONYX XT:
The all-new ONYX XT takes the MU-X’s rugged elegance to the next level, claims Isuzu. Designed for those who seek individuality, this exclusive 3.0-litre 4x4 model features a range of distinctive design elements, including a gloss black grille finish, metallic Light Magnetite bumper, gloss black roof rails, and ONYX black side mirrors. Gloss black door mouldings, a rear liftgate garnish, and metallic Light Magnetite accent panels below the bumper add a further visual impact.
This new range-topping model stands out further thanks to its bespoke 20-inch gloss black five-element alloy wheels with a smoky clear coating.
Inside, the ONYX XT exudes a premium yet sporty feel, featuring exclusive red ambient lighting on the dashboard and doors, complemented by white footwell and overhead console illumination.
The ONYX XT benefits from additional USB Type-C ports, positioned below the ventilation control panel and in the rear of the centre console to provide power for rear seat passengers.
Engines:
The ISUZU MU-X remains available with two turbodiesel engines, the 3.0-litre engine, which is available in LS, LSE and ONYX XT specification with 140kW and 450Nm and the 1.9-litre variant – available on the entry-level LS model – offering 110kW and 350Nm. Both engines are paired with six-speed automatic transmissions.
The 1.9-litre is available in 4x2, while the 3.0-litre is offered in both 4x2 and 4x4 configurations.
Prices:
1.9 Ddi MU-X LS 4x2 A/T (R752 300), 3.0 Ddi MU-X LS 4x2 A/T (R852 600), 3.0 Ddi MU-X LS 4x4 A/T (R939 500), 3.0 Ddi MU-X LSE 4x2 A/T (R886 700), 3.0 Ddi MU-X LSE 4x4 A/T (R973 700) and the 3.0 Ddi MU-X ONYX XT 4x4 A/T (R1 026 800).
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