In some ways, this may be overshadowed by the recent launch of the Blue Oval, but there's still a lot to like about the rough-and-ready MU-X four-wheel-drive wagon.
Despite being one of the newest and most technology-packed in its segment, Isuzu's MU-X also plays a part in the mechanical simplicity and reputation for reliability that Australians have.
Changes to the 2023 Isuzu MU-X – since its launch a few years ago – are relatively minor. Some darker exterior elements, new wheels, a fresher exterior look, and some minor tech changes: tire pressure monitoring, hands-free rear door opening, and more.
Maintaining stability may not be a bad thing in this case, as the MU-X is essentially a good thing. The product launched in mid-2021 – at the height of Australia's travel restrictions – and replaced a much-loved older model that was a popular choice despite being outdated.
This is an important element of Isuzu's appeal to Australian buyers. While it once had good value and a solid reputation, it can now compete with other four-wheelers and SUVs on an equal footing. It has a similar mechanical recipe of rugged simplicity but has increased levels of safety, technology, and comfort.
This means it could be the perfect blend for someone who longs for a long journey, or even a big trip across (or around) the continent.
How much does the Isuzu MU-X cost in Australia?
However, the whole value-for-money element has shifted. Compared to the old model, this new generation MU-X is much more expensive. However, this also brings a lot of additional equipment into the equation.
What doesn't help is the recent price jump of around $2000, taking this top-spec LS-T model into $65,000 territory.
However, climbing the MU-X career ladder is not an easy thing.
In a strategy that Isuzu is also implementing for the D-Max range, only this top-spec MU-X LS-T is being offered a discounted driving deal. Instead of having the usual 'plus on-road costs' arrangement, this LS-T has a drive-away offer of $65,990. This is a good deal and gives this top-spec spec the odd advantage of being cheaper than the mid-spec LS-U.
2023 Isuzu MU-X LS-T 4x4 important details
The price is $65,990 drive away
The color of the test car is Galaxy Blue Mica
Prestige Paint Options – $650
The price as tested was $66,640 drive away
How much space does the Isuzu MU-X have inside?
Changes to the MU-X's interior are minimal for the 2023 model. But it still feels fresh and fits its purpose. The MU-X's commercial roots, dating back to the D-Max ute side of the family tree, add a utilitarian touch that makes sense for family use.
In addition to the twin cupholder setup and a decent-sized glovebox, the pop-out cupholders under the air vents are also helpful, as is the second glovebox. However, storage here is limited to what CD player boxes look like in other markets.
The LS-T enjoys leather-wrapped electric seats with contrast white stitching. The seats are comfortable and you get a variety of regular adjustments on offer.
But some people may want more outlets, as there's only one USB-A and 12-volt point on the front.
The second row doesn't have any sliding functionality, but it's spacious and well-sorted in its static position. Legroom and headroom are both available, so long-legged adults can feel comfortable. Air vents are located on the roof, along with a fan speed control. However, the power supply is also somewhat limited here: there is only one USB-A point.
These second-row seats fold flat (for sleeping, for example), but can also be folded forward to access the decent-sized third row. The rear seats are large enough for adults, although some may feel a bit cramped.
The boot – which offers more than 300L of capacity as a seven-seater – is spacious enough for everyday use. More than 1,100 liters can be done in five-seater mode, which is also a good figure.
For a vehicle that's likely to spend a lot of time traversing interstate highways – and a lot of B highways – the combination of hard materials, rubber floor mats, and electric leather seating is very appealing. Comfortable and spacious, but with hard edges for durability and easy cleaning. And I don't know about you, but an extra cup holder is always a blessing on the go.
Isuzu MU-X LS-T 2023
Seat Seven
Boot volume 311L to the third row
1119L to second row
2138L to the first row
Length 4850mm
Width 1870mm
Height 1815mm
Wheelbase 2855mm
Does Isuzu MU-X have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?
The 9.0-inch infotainment screen is the right size for your media and navigation needs, and the system has things like wired and wireless Apple CarPlay, wired Android Auto, digital radio, and native navigation.
This operating system doesn't have the flair and intuitive feel of other systems you can find. The functionality is basic, and the relatively new inclusion of wireless smartphone mirroring is missing for Android users.
However, it has to be said: when you get in, start the car, and plug in your phone, it's forgotten as the user experience of your smartphone system takes over.
The multifunction display in front of the driver is also pretty basic. Tire pressure monitoring and a digital speed readout are useful assets here, as well as the usual trip computer functions. But don't expect a sharp, immersive experience from this setting.
Is Isuzu MU-X a safe car?
The five-star ANCAP safety rating from 2020 still applies to the Isuzu MU-X. It is the rating shared with the D-Max and the D-Max's crash test results – along with some additional information provided from Isuzu to ANCAP – that allowed the MU-X to be awarded the full five stars.
Adult passengers scored 86 percent in the crash test, while child passengers scored 85 percent. Safety assistance systems scored 84 percent, while vulnerable road users (pedestrians) scored 69 percent.
Isuzu MU-X LS-T 2023
ANCAP rating Five stars (tested 2022)
Safety report Link to ANCAP report
What safety technologies does the Isuzu MU-X have?
Isuzu uses the full IDAS safety suite across the MU-X range, which is good news for those who haven't seen this top-spec model. There's autonomous emergency braking with intersection, pedestrian, and cyclist detection, plus road sign detection from two cameras mounted on the windshield. The system works well but can be affected by heavy rain.
There's also lane departure warning and lane keeping assist, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, post-collision braking, and driver attention assist.
The eight airbags include a front center airbag (between the two front passengers) and a curtain airbag covering the third row.
How much does it cost to maintain an Isuzu MU-X?
The MU-X can be serviced via a seven-year or five-year capped price servicing schedule. Three years will cost $1545 ($515 average per year) five years $2435 ($487 average per year) to $3689 to the end of the capped price program (or $527 average per year), which is quite affordable.
The relatively basic mechanical nature of the MU-X: single turbocharger, four cylinders, and just six ratios in the gearbox will appeal to those who prefer simplicity and are looking for a long-term vehicle.
There's also a simpler part-time four-wheel drive system to consider on the MU-X. It's not as sophisticated as the clutch-based system you'll find on the Everest, which allows full-time four-wheel drive in 4x4 automatic mode.
Of course, Isuzu's 3.0-liter turbo diesel engine (which uses a timing chain and scissor gears on the timing gear) has an enviable reputation for long, reliable service, for those considering keeping their new vehicle for many years.
And for those looking to make the long journey to our continent, several dealers and service centers can help. Newman and Kalgoorlie cover Western Australia, along with Broome and Kununurra to the north.
There's also Katherine, Alice Springs, Mount Isa, and Cairns opposite the peak, as well as Roma, Broken Hill, Port Augusta, and Ceduna to the south. The dealer network is not as extensive as Toyota's, but it has good coverage for those who want to travel to remote areas in Australia.
Insuring an MU-X like this would cost $1724.56 based on a comparison quote for a 35-year-old male driver living in Chatswood, NSW. Insurance estimates may vary based on your location, driving history, and personal circumstances.
2023 Isuzu MU-X LS-T at a glance
Six-year/150,000km guarantee
Service interval 12 months or 15,000km
Service fee $1545 (3 years)
$2435 (5 years)
Is Isuzu MU-X fuel efficient?
Despite its diesel engine roar, the Isuzu MU-X can be a fairly efficient operator. Against a claim of 8.3 liters per hundred kilometers, we're looking at a figure of 8.5L/100km. That includes some long stretches of highway, so if you're planning on doing heavier work in the city, expect the numbers to be a little higher.
With an 80L fuel tank, the MU-X is well-positioned to cover long distances between fill-ups.
What's it like to drive the Isuzu MU-X?
One thing that hasn't changed here is the way the MU-X goes about its business on the road. It's rugged, torquey, and fun, with a relaxed and comfortable nature to the steering and suspension.
The 3.0-litre turbocharged diesel engine – which produces a relatively modest 140kW and 450Nm (especially when you consider its high capacity) – isn't the quickest or most advanced in its segment. The 3.0-liter engine is high for a four-cylinder, and you can hear the powerplant rumbling under the bonnet. Some may find this distasteful, but if you subscribe to the engine philosophy that this truck comes from, you'll find the sound reassuring or even endearing.
The engine develops good levels of torque throughout the rev range, feeling much happier running at low and mid-range revs than near the redline. And honestly, you don't need to look for that redline very often. Instead, lean into the torque-rich low end and let the MU-X cruise and accelerate with more grace.
If you prefer daily racing to reach the speed limit as quickly as possible and often use the wide-open throttle, then you will find this MU-X less fun to drive.
However, taking it out on the open road for a long period allows the Isuzu to get into its slow-revving, rolling grooves nicely.
The six-speed automatic gearbox is a predictable performer that reliably selects gears at the right time and never gets confused in its decision-making. Gear changes are not as frequent as in other options, but are adapted to the nature of the engine.
While the ride quality does remind you that this is indeed a four-wheeled vehicle with a lively ladder chassis and rear axle, it feels a little bouncy and sometimes a little disoriented on rough, bumpy surfaces. The 20-inch wheels on this LS-T don't help in this regard, and previous experience tells us that lower-spec, smaller-diameter wheels make for a quieter driving experience.
While its ride and steering qualities may not exhibit the same quality as you'd find in the Everest – the best option in its segment in this regard – the MU-X is certainly comfortable and easy to drive in everyday life. The steering is set with light resistance at low speeds but gets heavier as speed increases.
The softness and comfort of the ride quality work well on highways and highways, absorbing surface undulations well at higher speeds. Smaller diameter wheels will work better here, due to their durability and absorption on the open road. However, the 20-inch wheels didn't perform badly during our testing.
We've done some long-distance hauling in this new-generation MU-X over the past few years, and we've always found that the powerful diesel engine, smooth ride quality, and good ergonomics make it feel even more at home. on the open road.
Although we didn't have the opportunity to take the MU-X off-road this time, previous experience also tells us that the MU-X is right in this regard. The 20-inch wheels (again) carry a negative sentiment here, but the combination of good torque, a locking rear differential, and a supple suspension puts the MU-X in good stead.
The 'Rough Terrain Mode' button is also a winner, tightening up response and wheel-spin control in slippery off-road conditions. Apart from the locking rear differential, this off-road mode is the biggest thing that differentiates the new MU-X from the old one.
Important details of the 2023 Isuzu MU-X LS-T
Engine 3.0-liter four-cylinder turbo diesel engine
Power 140kW @ 3600rpm
Torque 450Nm @ 1600–2600rpm
Drive Type Part-time four-wheel drive,
low-range transfer case, rear differential lock
Transmission Six-speed torque converter automatic
Power to weight ratio 64kW/t
Weight (curb) 2180kg
Spare tire type Full size
Tow rating 3500kg braked
750kg unbraked
Turning a circle 11.4m
Should I buy Isuzu MU-X?
The Isuzu MU-X is a solid choice. The pricing structure – in this cheaper top-spec model – may leave you confused, but it will encourage you to opt for the LS-T. It's a fresher and overall better offering than what Mitsubishi and Toyota get (with the Pajero Sport and Fortuner) and still manages to effectively undercut the Everest when you drill down to the value-for-money equation.
And, of course, it will probably be an option for those looking for more than 10 years of ownership, and those with aspirations of hitting seven figures on the odometer. I (of course) can't guarantee that you'll get this far in standard running gear without major issues, but I'd be willing to bet that it will be the favorite (among its main competitors) for covering the longest distances.
It's not as smooth or refined as the others, nor does it offer the same level of outright performance (on-road or off-road) as the others, but it's a fairly competent offering overall with few major drawbacks.
