Isuzu MU-X review finds towing, off-road and long highway travel prowess

Stepping off the bitumen and long highway hauls all fall within the Isuzu MU-X seven-seater SUV’s remit.

Utes have become the Swiss Army knife for families.

Room for five and a mighty big boot for wide-ranging work and play activities. But would a more traditional wagon shape be even better for many?

Challenging jobs like dump runs, garden mulching or big furniture hauling could be handled by a trailer, whereas an enclosed cabin can offer additional flexibility for the safe storage of equipment when away from the vehicle.

During a long road trip, Isuzu’s MU-X proved its value and dexterity for those who would rarely use the tray.

While there are plenty of seven-seat SUVs on the market, few have true off-road ability and strong towing attributes. Gravel roads are the greatest challenge you’d likely throw at most soft-roaders, which is why the MU-X appeals to those with a sense of adventure.

Our test was in the LS-T derivative that sits atop the range with a drive-away price of $65,990.

The Isuzu MU-X LS-T starts from $65,990 drive-away.

VALUE

All-new last July, the MU-X received a much-needed modern makeover. Infotainment upgrades, led by a nine-inch touchscreen armed with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, satnav, voice recognition and an eight-speaker sound system, have pushed this flagship model back onto shopping lists. Previously, the MU-X was primarily utilitarian.

Other highlights are push-button start, power tailgate, dual-zone aircon, quilted leather trim on the seats with man-made leatherette on the doors and console, as well as 20-inch alloys.

Colour options include red, black, blue, brown, grey, silver and two shades of white.

Warranty coverage is slightly better than the mainstream standard at six years, but is restricted to 150,000km. Capped price servicing is available for seven years (annual or 15,000km intervals) which cost on average about $500 – an added bonus of returning to the dealer is the MU-X remains covered for complimentary roadside assist.

Current queues extend to at least three months, depending on colour.

The Isuzu MU-X LS-T has a nine-inch touchscreen armed with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, satnav, voice recognition and an eight-speaker sound system.

SAFETY

Five stars were awarded by Australia’s safety authority and some of the crash tests used data from the D-Max – of which it shares much of the front end and interior.

Life-saving tech including automatic braking which can bolster or take over the braking if a frontal collision leads the inclusions, along with radar cruise control to maintain a safe distance from other vehicles.

Being a large SUV the parking sensors front and back are vital, along with the reversing camera. Rear cross traffic alert warns the driver if unseen vehicles are approaching but the autonomous emergency braking doesn’t work in reverse.

Lane keeping and warning functions are standard but they can be annoying on rural roads – turning it off can be done quickly via a steering wheel button.

Another cool feature is the auto locking which secures the car as soon as the key moves outside a 3m radius.

Braked towing capacity of the Isuzu MU-X LS-T is 2500kg.

DRIVING

On paper the 3.0-litre turbo diesel doesn’t inspire much confidence, but Isuzu has built a reputation of longevity.

Generating 140kW and 450Nm, it’s the same donk used in some of the marque’s trucks. It has 3500kg towing capacity which trumps key rivals that are currently at 3100kg.

Travelling more than 1200km, the MU-X was unchallenged by undulating highways and delivered an impressive average consumption of 7.5 litres/100km. This new model has an 80L tank capacity so more than 900km after one trip to the bowser is within reach.

The six-speed auto offers timely changes and ample suspension travel provides a smooth ride, yet when the going gets twisty it feels the length and bulk with some body roll.

It makes up for any blemishes with off-road ability, and you can confidently tackle some of the toughest terrain. Shifts to four-wheel drive and low-range are done via a console dial.

The third row in Isuzu’s MU-X LS-T.

COMFORT

Two USB ports up front and another pair in the back ensure devices stay charged. Other commonsense inclusions are covered such as dual cupholders in the front (second row has a fold-out cup holder and tray while the third row has holders integrated into the armrests) and bottle slots in the doors.

Overall comfort levels are high and while back seat space is reasonable for adults, it’s not as generous compared to some SUVs. The two fold-down seats in the third row, which are easily shifted into place with straps and toggles, are more occasional use and best left to children of those vertically challenged.

During our test drive the MU-X delivered average diesel use of 7.5L/100km courtesy of some long bitumen travels.

ALTERNATIVES

Ford Everest Titanium $81,725 D/A

The new model is imminent, but the outgoing Everest remains tough opposition. It’s a comfortable rig with solid off-road credentials, powered by a 157kW/500Nm 2.0-litre 4-cyl turbo diesel.

Mitsubishi Pajero Sport GSR $64,490 D/A

Typically targeting the more budget-conscious, this range-topping model has a range of external extras for a tougher look. It’s less powerful with a 133kW/430Nm 2.4-litre turbo diesel, but has a 10-year 150,000km warranty.

Under the bonnet of the Isuzu MU-X LS-T is the same 3.0-litre turbo diesel found in the D-Max ute.

VERDICT

For those who don’t need the tub regularly, hire a trailer and reap the rewards. The MU-X is a better family option with the seven seats and enhanced comfort over the D-Max ute on which it’s based.