2023 Isuzu MU-X review

Running changes reinforce the appeal of a model that represents a value pick for customers keen on rugged adventures.

Isuzu has updated its MU-X wagon for 2023.

Isuzu’s popular seven-seat MU-X wagon has had a nip and tuck for the New Year.

The updates include a new grille design, a new colour and some adjustments to safety equipment aimed at people who like to tow.

The changes coincide with the recent release of Ford’s new Everest wagon, a key rival the off-road four-wheel-drive wagon market.

Isuzu’s MU-X has been updated for 2023.

The MU-X’s front grille is now darker and classier, there are new wheel designs and the look of the rear LED lights has changed.

Towers will appreciate the fact that blind-spot and rear cross-traffic alert monitors now automatically turning off a trailer is hitched up. Clearly, Isuzu listens to customer gripes.

There’s also a hands-free tailgate on all models bar the cheapest, a handy addition for parents wrangling kids and shopping bags.

Fresh alloys and darker taillights are part of the deal.

Refreshingly, the update comes without a price increase. That’s a rarity these days, as most car makers have taken advantage of supply shortages to ramp up prices significantly.

Speaking of supply, the queue is estimated to be nine months for an MU-X. Longer, no doubt, for the flagship LS-T 4WD grade, which bizarrely costs less than the model below it.

The entry-level LS-M is $48,900 plus on-roads in two-wheel drive guise and $54,900 for the 4WD. The LS-U costs between $55,400 and $61,400, while the LS-T is $61,400 to $67,400.

On-roads are about $4500, but the LS-T 4WD has a longstanding drive-away deal of $65,990 (about $1400 less than the RRP), so costs the same on the road as the LS-T 2WD or lower-spec LS-U.

Isuzu’s four-wheel-drive has a large central touchscreen.

Little wonder, then, that the wait is longest for the LS-T 4WD.

It’s clearly the pick, with leather-accented heated power seats, remote engine start, ambient lighting, a 9-inch infotainment screen with wireless CarPlay (and plug-in Android Auto) and 20-inch alloys. Wireless phone charging and a sunroof are notable omissions.

The MU-X is a big deal for the brand, which is Australia’s eighth-biggest, despite selling just two models.

Based on the D-Max, the MU-X has enjoyed eight years as the nation’s best-selling ute-based SUV, although Ford’s new Everest is nipping at its heels in the sales race.

The MU-X isn’t as refined as the Ford, but a drive past Sunshine Coast hinterland panoramas and over Noosa’s North Shore beaches showcased its all-round talents.

They include a 3500kg towing ability, an unstressed, reliable and economical 140kW/450Nm 3.0-litre turbo-diesel, a long six-year/150,000km warranty and comprehensive safety equipment.

It’s a few grand cheaper than the Ford as well, although the Everest’s optional V6 engine is sure to attract attention. The MU-X’s four-cylinder gives away 44kW and 150Nm to the Ford V6.

The MU-X is a natural performer away from sealed roads.

Isuzu’s diesel labours somewhat on steep climbs and gets shouty when pushed but otherwise is fit for purpose. It feels relaxed when cruising, the six-speed auto shifts gears smoothly and light steering makes it – bulk aside – an easy city tool.

For a ute-based wagon, the MU-X delivers decent body control and the coil-sprung independent rear suspension means kids in the back don’t pogo around as in leaf-sprung utes.

The 4WD versions are impressive on sand. It clicks into low-range 4WD without a clunk, has a locking rear differential for loose surfaces and the engine’s torque hauls it out of most troubles.

The Isuzu MU-X is a favourite among four-wheel-drive fans.

It’s easy to tackle adventurous routes with a family on-board. There’s proper space for seven, including two rearmost seats which just about swallow adults.

VERDICT

Three and a half stars

A minor update – and no price increase – makes this seven-seat family adventurer easy to recommend.

ISUZU MU-X

PRICE From about $53,000 drive-away

ENGINE 3.0-litre 4-cyl turbo diesel, 140kW and 450Nm

WARRANTY/SERVICING 6-year/150,000 km, $2435 for 5 years

SAFETY Five stars, eight airbags, auto emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitor, adaptive cruise control, rear cross-traffic alert, traffic-sign recognition

THIRST 7.8-8.3L/100km (reasonable)

LUGGAGE 311 to 1119 litres

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