2024 Isuzu D-Max

2024 Isuzu D-Max

It could be argued that Isuzu didn’t really need to update the D-Max light-utility vehicle. It was 2023’s third-best-selling ute, and the Japanese car maker was part of the top 10 best-selling brands last year.

But the dual-cab ute market moves fast, and the once-great Isuzu D-Max has been overtaken by rivals such as the Ford Ranger and Mitsubishi Triton. This new update attempts to address the gap.

Isuzu has opted to issue slight styling tweaks inside and out, new infotainment features and functionality, as well as enhanced safety equipment as standard.

Of course, the brand has kept the fan favourite 3.0-litre turbo diesel engine unchanged with its 140kW/450Nm outputs.

Drive was invited to sample the facelifted dual-cab ute on Isuzu Ute Australia’s home turf in Brisbane. Here’s how we got on.

How much is an Isuzu D-Max?

With new equipment, new styling, and newer features come increased costs. The range is between $500 and $3000 more expensive compared to the list pricing of the pre-facelift version, but Isuzu’s drive-away deals for the entry-level and flagship bookends remain.

That means buyers of the top-spec X-Terrain, as focused on in this review, pay $67,990 drive-away nationwide.

A full run-down of Isuzu’s 2024 D-Max range is linked here.

Looks-wise, the 2024 Isuzu D-Max is most obviously distinguished by a new front fascia with an enlarged grille design, new headlights, three-tier LED tail-lights, and redesigned wheels.

The X-Terrain specification in particular gets a dark grey front grille apron, tweaked wheel guard cladding, unique matte grey 18-inch wheels, and subtle changes to the rear sail-plane sports bar.

As before, the Isuzu D-Max is available with either a 1.9-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine with 110kW/350Nm outputs, or a higher-capacity 3.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel with 140kW/450Nm.

Power is sent to a part-time four-wheel-drive system in higher-end variants such as the flagship D-Max X-Terrain, though a 4x2 configuration remains available to lower-grade variants.

Equipment and features unique to the top-spec X-Terrain include front parking sensors, leather-accented seats with red stitching, remote engine start, roller tonneau cover, and ‘X’ badging on the tailgate.

Key details 2024 Isuzu D-Max X-Terrain

Price $70,500 plus on-road costs

Colour of test car Magnetic Red mica

Options Premium paint

Price as tested $67,990 drive-away

Rivals Toyota HiLux | Mazda BT-50 | Ford Ranger

The cabin of the updated 2024 D-Max X-Terrain presents largely similar to its predecessor, though closer inspection reveals some key tweaks – some of which were implemented off the back of customer and media feedback.

Trainspotters will notice the new dials for volume and tuning – a far better way to tweak settings while driving. However, unfortunately the buttons for skipping between functions are now gone and replaced with touch-sensitive keys. That said, given the choice between the two changes – I appreciate the volume dial so much more.

Like before, the air-conditioning controls are found beneath the main infotainment screen.

I’ve always appreciated the broad shoulder support on Isuzu’s seats, and it’s easy for my tall 194cm to get comfortable in the seat. There’s good side support for rounding bends and the electronic seat adjustments allow the driver to set a comfy, lofty driving position.

Though subtle, I appreciate the new design points found on the edges of trims on the dash, and also found on the door panels. It’s that little bit of stylistic flair that you don’t normally find on dual-cab utes.

Storage is covered off between a deep centre console bin, twin cupholders, and a slot underneath the dash for your phone – but there is no wireless charger. A two-tier glovebox sits in front of the front seat passenger for hiding items away from prying eyes.

Controls for the car’s 4x4 system – including a rear diff lock, hill descent control, and low-range gearing – are nested around the gear selector.

Second-row comfort is good for a dual-cab ute. I had clear head room above and a comfortable level of knee room, while there’s even decent space side-to-side when the car’s fully laden with passengers.

There are air vents servicing the second row and USB-C ports for powering devices. One change for the 2024 update is the move from USB-A ports to USB-C. Map pockets provide a space for loose items and a fold-down centre armrest contains a pair of cupholders.

I like that the rear seat is modular in that the seat base can flip up to provide great floor space for stowing large items. The backrest can also flip forward.

One thing I love about the D-Max is the gas struts for the rear tailgate. You can unlatch the rear tailgate and it gently glides down rather than slamming down with a clatter.

2024 Isuzu D-Max X-Terrain

Seats Five

Length 5303mm

Width 1880mm

Height 1810mm

Wheelbase 3125mm

Does the Isuzu D-Max have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?

The same old 9.0-inch touchscreen display does service in the higher-end D-Max variants. It’s a fair size compared to some rivals such as the Nissan Navara (8.0-inch display) but trails the Ford Ranger (12-inch).

It works fine, but there are not a lot of features to play with. There is embedded satellite navigation, but owners will want to use Apple CarPlay or Android Auto – at least I did in previous Isuzus. The good thing is both smartphone mirroring services are now wireless.

What has changed is the underlying software – there’s a new home screen style that paves way to a host of neat new features. There is enhanced functionality with off-road angle displays, tyre pressure monitoring screens, and 4x4 driveline information. Drivers can also tweak the adaptive safety systems using the central infotainment display.

In front of the driver sits a new 7.0-inch digital driver display that uses unique X-Terrain graphics, but the changeable nature of the screen’s information is really handy. I love the sci-fi-style graphics to the speedometer.

In place of old USB-A ports, the new D-Max now sports updated USB-C for charging and connecting to the car.

Is the Isuzu D-Max a safe car?

The incoming Isuzu D-Max will inherit its predecessor's five-star ANCAP result achieved under 2022 protocols.

This means an adult occupant protection score of 86 per cent, a child occupant protection score of 89 per cent, a vulnerable road user protection score of 69 per cent, and 84 per cent for safety assist systems.

2024 Isuzu D-Max X-Terrain

ANCAP rating Five stars (tested 2022)

Safety report Link to ANCAP report

What safety technology does the Isuzu D-Max have?

Isuzu made headlines in 2020 for including a swathe of active safety equipment on the D-Max as standard. It has just updated a bunch of that equipment for 2024.

These updates include a new-generation stereo camera system with a 200 per cent wider field of view increased to 120 degrees compared to the pre-update D-Max.

Also, the traffic sign recognition system now pairs with the intelligent adaptive cruise control to quickly and easily change the cruise control's speed when posted limits change.

The rear cross-traffic alert system is now paired with a braking function that can apply the brakes if the car detects passing traffic, pedestrians, or cyclists while reversing.

These features worked as intended at the launch.

The D-Max also gets eight airbags.

Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) Yes Includes cyclist, pedestrian detection

Adaptive Cruise Control Yes Includes traffic jam assist

Blind Spot Alert Yes Alert only

Rear Cross-Traffic Alert Yes Alert and assist (new) functions

Lane Assistance Yes Lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, lane-centring assist

Road Sign Recognition Yes Includes speed limit assist

Driver Attention Warning Yes Assist function

Cameras & Sensors Yes Front and rear sensors, reversing camera

How much does the Isuzu D-Max cost to run?

Isuzus come with a six-year/150,000km warranty, which compares to Nissan’s five-year/unlimited-kilometre offering or Mitsubishi’s 10-year/200,000km (if serviced within Mitsubishi network).

Buyers also get a seven-year roadside assistance service.

Isuzu has tweaked its service pricing for the 2024 Isuzu D-Max. Services should take place at either 12-month or 15,000km intervals, but Isuzu now has a flat-price structure for the first five years.

Each service now costs $449, meaning five years’ coverage costs $2245. This is less expensive than the Mazda BT-50 ($2443) and Mitsubishi Triton ($2445).

The Isuzu D-Max X-Terrain will cost $2233 to insure per year based on a comparative 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.

At a glance 2024 Isuzu D-Max X-Terrain

Warranty Six years/150,000km

Service intervals 12 months or 15,000km

Servicing costs $1347 (3 years)

$2245 (5 years)

Is the Isuzu D-Max fuel-efficient?

Isuzu claims the 3.0-litre automatic-spec D-Max uses 8.0 litres per 100 kilometres on a combined cycle and 9.8L/100km around town.

At the launch I saw 8.9L/100km indicated on the digital cluster – this was achieved over off-road trails and a short road drive. In the past, we’ve seen similar numbers (8.7L/100km) out of the Isuzu D-Max when we’ve had examples through the Drive garage.

The D-Max range is diesel-only, with a 76-litre fuel tank. At Isuzu's claimed consumption it has a touring range of 950km, but as tested expect closer to 850km between fills.

Fuel efficiency 2024 Isuzu D-Max X-Terrain

Fuel cons. (claimed) 8.0L/100km

Fuel cons. (on test) 8.9L/100km

Fuel type Diesel

Fuel tank size 76L

What is the Isuzu D-Max like to drive?

The top-spec 3.0-litre 2024 Isuzu D-Max continues with 140kW/450Nm outputs sent to a part-time four-wheel-drive system. It’s mated to a six-speed Aisin-sourced automatic transmission.

It’s down numbers-wise on the comparable Ford Ranger 2.0TT (157kW/500Nm), but there is no major lack of shove from the Isuzu unit and its six-speed transmission is better behaved.

Australians love the steadfast reliability offered by the Isuzu combo, and it feels remarkably sturdy in its power application. There’s a load of torque served up as soon as you depress the throttle, and the six-speed transmission is bang-on for serving up the right ratio quickly.

A 1.9-litre unit is offered on lower-grade variants (110kW/350Nm), though the big 3.0-litre engine is the one we really appreciate under the D-Max’s bonnet. There’s more than enough grunt for performing swift overtakes on back roads, and its fuel economy isn’t that much more in real terms.

It’s a relatively refined engine and gearbox, for a dual-cab ute, and doesn’t serve unnecessary vibrations or shunts into the cabin when the driver goes for hard accelerations. There is an element of engine noise that makes its way to the cabin, but road and wind noise is subdued.

Time spent off-road at the D-Max’s launch revealed the dual-cab ute is as good as ever off the beaten track. Especially with the added Rough Terrain Mode, the Isuzu keeps pace slow but steady over undulating mounds, and you don’t have to bury the throttle to keep progressing up big hills.

The X-Terrain variant doesn’t have the best approach, rampover, and departure angles of the D-Max range, and it can drag its bum over tricky mounds, but overall it trundles over all kinds of terrain without fuss.

Its suspension is tuned to absorb most large road impacts – it’s only the minor corrugations and road imperfections that can move the body about.

Despite the D-Max’s trademark lightweight steering, it feels like a heavy ute to track through corners and the car pitches forward when you hit the anchors hard. It’s not a dynamic stand-out – its application is far more aligned to work.

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2023 Isuzu MU-X LS-T

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.

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Isuzu "MuX "All New Facelift Concept Car

After 18 months on sale in Australia, it’s high time for the 2023 Isuzu MU-X large off-road SUV to receive a freshen-up alongside its ute sibling, the Isuzu D-Max. But for the 2023 model year, Isuzu isn’t trying to rock the boat by introducing a makeover. Let’s run through the changes Isuzu has made and weigh up whether (a) it’s worth considering over a 2022 model, and (b) the tweaks are enough to take on newcomer rivals such as the new Ford Everest. The 2023 Isuzu MU-X reinserts into the large off-road SUV category to battle it out with rivals such as the Mitsubishi Pajero Sport, 

Toyota Fortuner and Prado, and the all-new Ford Everest. Isuzu has brought new cosmetic touches such as darkened grille trim pieces to the front fascia and dark surrounds to the tail lights. There are also running updates under the skin, including a tweak that sees the blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert systems automatically switch off if the vehicle is towing a trailer using a genuine Isuzu wiring harness. It’s still a three-strong range that kicks off from $48,900 before on-road costs for the entry-level 4x2 LS-M variant and extends to $67,400 for the LS-T 4x4. At the moment Isuzu is running a drive-away deal on the top-spec MU-X LS-T 4x4 which costs $65,990 drive-away. 

All three can be had in either 4x2 or 4x4 configuration. Other changes to the range for 2023 include new 17-inch alloy wheels for the entry-level LS-M – with Dunlop all-terrain tyres. The upper-spec LS-U and LS-T score a tyre pressure monitoring system, hands-free electric boot release, and Magnetite-coloured trim pieces for the dash and door cards. Common across the range is the familiar 3.0-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder engine that outputs 140kW/450Nm through a six-speed automatic transmission. It retains its impressive 3.5-tonne tow rating. Getting more specific, at launch we spent the most time in the range-topping spec, the Isuzu MU-X LS-T. Equipment adds for the 2023 model-year MU-X LS-T include new-design 20-inch two-tone alloy wheels with Bridgestone highway-terrain tyres, while portions of the front bar include Magnetite (dark grey) accents.

Key details 2023 Isuzu MU-X LS-T 4x4

Price $65,990 drive-away

The colour of the test car Galaxy Blue Mica

Options Prestige paint – $650

Price as tested $66,640 drive-away

The LS-T model grade continues to specify leatherette upholstery inside the cabin and owners can also expect heated seating. The seats adjust electrically for front-row occupants and the entire space is illuminated by LED interior lighting.

In terms of actually using the space, the MU-X’s cabin is hugely spacious and very comfortable – ripe for the impromptu road trip if need be. Stitched portions of the trim coverings adorn the dash and door cards, which make the cabin feel nicer than its ute-based counterpart.

The tops of the door cards still contain a sharp plastic join-line that belies this SUV’s an otherwise impressive array of materials.  

Ergonomics-wise, it’s a functional space, and you’re never caught stretching over to operate various bits and pieces such as the infotainment or switchgear.

Thankfully, Isuzu’s left the control of the air-conditioning to physical dials and switches, whereas other manufacturers are progressively moving towards infotainment-based operation.

There’s an adequate amount of storage options in the front row between the large cupholders, a centre console bin, a tray in front of the gear selector, a dual-open glovebox, and a set of bottle holders in the doors. However, it is a shame they’re so thin for such a large vehicle.

In the second row, there’s a commodious amount of space, no matter how big or small your occupants may be. The seats recline for ultimate laid-back comfort, while the air vents are located within the roof. Unfortunately, the second row doesn’t slide forward and back to help out third-row passengers.

Speaking of which, those two third-row passengers have a decent amount of space for a large SUV. Big knees and long legs are surprisingly well catered for, though headroom is tight for taller occupants.

The boot now opens hands-free in LS-U specifications and above. Boot space stays the same between model years, meaning it’ll carry 311L with the third row up, 1119L with the third row down, and 2138L with the third and second rows folded.

Seats 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

There has been no update to Isuzu’s 9.0-inch infotainment system, which it could well have used. The system, while wholly capable, presents as an aftermarket solution and looks ordinary in comparison to its rivals.

It also doesn’t have handy app-based phone integration where you can check certain things about your car from your phone, à la Ford Everest and the FordPass Connect services.

Handily, it does have the ability to run wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto, if you don’t like the car’s native satellite navigation or digital radio connectivity.

There’s a small screen within the instrument cluster that shows pertinent information about the car’s driving metrics, such as fuel economy, what status the part-time 4x4 system is in, and a digital speed readout.

The Isuzu MU-X carries a five-star safety rating recently refreshed in September 2022. This test is based on crash test data from the structurally similar D-Max.

The MU-X range carries an 86 per cent rating for adult occupant protection, 85 per cent child occupant protection rating, 69 per cent vulnerable road user (pedestrian) protection, and an 84 per cent safety assist systems rating.

New equipment for the 2023 MU-X is tyre pressure monitoring which is viewed inside the digital instrument display.

The MU-X also features a full suite of advanced safety tech and speed sign recognition cameras. It continues to stock important active safety features like autonomous emergency braking, forward collision warning, lane-departure warning, and lane-keep assistance.

New for 2023 is the ability for the car to automatically turn off the blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert systems when towing with a genuine Isuzu trailer harness.

Put into practice, the above active safety measures reliably worked with the driver rather than hindered by needlessly alerting to ghost cars or dangers.

Despite the new equipment fitted to the 2023 MU-X, Isuzu’s pricing has remained the same between model years. With the advent of the new Ford Everest, arguably its key rival, Isuzu’s MU-X still shapes up as good value.

For example, taking the comparable Isuzu MU-X LS-T ($67,400 plus on-road costs) and the Ford Everest Sport ($69,590 plus ORCs), both in 4x4 configuration with 3.0-litre engines, the Isuzu is the more affordable of the two. That’s even before you factor in Isuzu’s regular drive-away deals.

Isuzu offers a six-year/150,000km warranty on its vehicles. Service intervals take place at every 15,000km interval or every 12 months, whichever occurs sooner.

Isuzu also provides seven years of roadside assistance and seven years of capped-price servicing. Common across all variants is service pricing: three years of maintenance costs $1545 and five years costs $2435.

The Isuzu MU-X LS-T will cost $1726.83 to insure per year based on a comparative 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.

At a glance 2023 Isuzu MU-X LS-T

Warranty Six years/150,000km

Service intervals 12 months or 15,000km

Servicing costs $1545 (3 years)

$2435 (5 years)

Payload 620kg

Gross combination mass 5900kg

Approach/ramp over/departure angles 29.2° / 23.1° / 26.4°

Ground clearance 235mm

Wading depth 800mm

Is the Isuzu MU-X fuel-efficient?

With various drivers behind the wheel and along a series of highway roads, the Isuzu MU-X recorded an 8.7L/100km rating against its 8.3L/100km extra-urban claim. We’ve seen similar recordings out of the MU-X in the past.

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Isuzu D-Max

Whatever your challenges, Isuzu D-Max is ready to accompany you to conquer them. With all the advantages it has, even the toughest challenge will feel light when it is conquered with Isuzu D-Max

Reliable and economical machine

We understand that in order to overcome challenges, we need a vehicle that can be relied on to the fullest. The Isuzu D-Max is equipped with a 4JK1-TC HI engine, commonrail, electronic controlled fuel injection pump with intercooled turbo charger and VGS (Variable Geometry System), 4 cylinder in line, DOHC, with a capacity of 2,499 cc so it can produce power of 136 PS at 3,400 rpm and peak torque reaches 32.6 kg-m at 1,800 – 2,800 rpm. Even though it has maximum power, the Isuzu D-Max engine is also designed to produce maximum efficiency so that it saves fuel.

Tough on all terrains

Isuzu D-Max is available in a choice of single cab or double cab which is tough on off-road terrain. Isuzu D-Max with a 4X4 drive that can be converted into a 4x2 for highway use makes it suitable as a work partner in mining and plantation areas.

Dynamic display

The exterior design is very dynamic, tough and sporty with the presence of LED head lamps, as well as the shaping style appearance taken from whales, making the Isuzu D-Max appear more dashing.

Comfortable cabin

When traveling to conquer challenges, comfort is also necessary. Therefore, the Isuzu D-Max has a spacious cabin in its class so as to provide maximum comfort for the driver.

 

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