Isuzu adds new MU-X to Australian range

Strict new proposed emissions laws have forced one of Australia’s top car brands to make a big change to its popular off-roader.

Isuzu has added a new, more fuel-efficient SUV to its local range.

The Japanese brand has fitted a small 1.9-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel engine to its popular rugged MU-X, which will sit alongside the current version powered by a 3.0-litre motor.

Adding the smaller capacity engine slices $2000 off the price of the MU-X compared to the 3.0-litre powered model. It will also initially avoid any penalties from the government’s proposed fuel efficiency standards, as it scrapes in under the CO2 limit for 2025.

Isuzu has fitted a smaller capacity engine to its MU-X off-roader.

Isuzu Australia boss Junta Matsui says the company has worked hard to maintain value for money despite cost pressures on the business.

“We’re confident that value for money has been maintained across the MU-X range and the addition of the 1.9-litre turbo-diesel engine gives customers a more affordable option; not just at the showroom, but down the track, as it is up to 10 per cent more fuel efficient than our 3.0-litre engine,” says Matsui.

Buyers can choose the new engine with either two- or four-wheel drive. Prices start at $47,400 (before on-road costs) for the base MU-X LS-M two-wheel drive. Four-wheel drive variants are priced from $53,400.

It uses less fuel and produces less CO2 than the current version.

The 1.9-litre turbo diesel engine makes 110kW and 350Nm – down 40kW and 100Nm on the bigger motor – and is paired to a six-speed automatic transmission.

Isuzu claims the MU-X fitted with the smaller motor uses 7.4L/100km in both two- and four-wheel drive models. MU-Xs with the beefier engine use between 7.8 and 8.3L/100km.

The smaller engine comes with some compromises such as a braked towing capacity of 3000kg, down half a tonne on the more potent versions.

Isuzu hasn’t made many changes to the standard equipment.

Four-wheel drive versions come with some serious off-road hardware. They have rear locking differentials, off-road driving modes, high and low gearing, a wading depth of 800mm and ground clearance of 230mm. There are also generous approach and departure angles.

Isuzu has beefed up its ownership appeal with a five-year capped price servicing program, a six-year/150,000km warranty and up to seven years of roadside assistance.

The 1.9-litre diesel version is due to land in dealerships soon, with sales commencing from April 2nd.