Isuzu has pulled the covers off the updated mu-X, its 4×4 SUV based on the ever-popular D-Max bakkie.
The Japanese automaker revealed the new mu-X in Thailand this week, but its South African launch date has yet to be announced.
TopAuto reached out to Isuzu South Africa asking when the SUV will arrive here, to which it said the vehicle is still under consideration for a local introduction.
“Isuzu Motors South Africa is closely evaluating the situation to assess its potential introduction to the South African market,” said a spokesperson for the company.
“At this time, we are in the process of gathering all pertinent information and evaluating market dynamics to determine the optimal timing and strategy for its release in South Africa. ”
What’s new
The mu-X is a seven-seater SUV that is built on the same ladder-frame chassis as the D-Max, making it a competitor to the likes of the Toyota Fortuner, Ford Everest, and Mitsubishi Pajero Sport.
The Isuzu was first introduced in South Africa in 2018 and its roster currently consists of six units following an update in August 2023 that added a more affordable variant.
Looking at what’s been shown in Thailand, the mu-X is getting a new front end with an altered grille, more prominent fog lamps, and slimmer LED headlights.
At the rear, the two taillights have been united to form a central bar stretching across the boot door, and the back bumper is slightly larger.
The alloy wheels range from 17 to 20 inches in size, and the SUV comes with roof rails and side steps.
More significant is the addition of a new flagship RS trim, which is going for a sportier aesthetic with a much darker honeycomb-style grille with chrome accents, a two-tone roof, and black finishes for the side mirrors, flared wheel arches, and the 20-inch alloy rims.
Inside, the dashboard has a new 7-inch digital driver display flanked by two dials, which is complemented by an improved 9.0-inch infotainment screen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The RS models feature red ambient lighting strips and Sports seats with a lime green contrast stitch pattern, while another trim – the Ultimate – is shown with Truffle Brown leather upholstery.
The mu-X also comes with an expanded suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems that includes a 360-degree camera with undercarriage view, lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and traffic jam assist.
Since it is a facelift rather than a new generation, the Isuzu is retaining its current engine line-up.
This means you can expect one of two turbo-diesel options, a 1.9-litre or a 3.0-litre, both of which connect to a six-speed automatic gearbox.
The 1.9-litre powerplant produces 110kW and 350Nm and has an average fuel consumption of 7.0l/100km.
The 3.0-litre option, meanwhile, generates 140kW and 450Nm while using a slightly higher 7.6l/100km.
Interestingly, in Thailand the RS is the only model to feature a four-wheel-drive system (4WD), while all the other models are rear-wheel-drive (RWD).
The RWD units can tow 2,100kg, while the 4WD setup allows for a greater capacity of 3,500kg.
2025 Isuzu mu-X
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