Isuzu expands it's local lineup for the mu-X by adding a smaller, more efficient engine to the lineup but manages to retain all the appeal that comes with the competent 7-seater solution.
Say the name Isuzu, and one immediately thinks of the D-Max and if you’re old enough, you’ll think of the KB first. Either which way, double cabs and bakkies come to mind initially and one is quick to forget about the 7-seater mu-X that does battle with the likes of the Toyota Fortuner and Ford Everest in the 7-seater SUV segment. What one doesn’t think of, almost at all, is the likes of the Mitsubishi Outlander. Those looking for something a little more city-friendly may consider the likes of the Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace or one of the newer offerings from Chery, the Tiggo 8 Pro Max.
Isuzu has just sweetened the deal though by adding a new, entry-level model to their existing mu-X lineup, making it more attractive to the buyer that is looking for a robust, dependable 7-seater that is backed by a name they can trust.
Small engine, big value
The new Isuzu mu-X derivative gets a 1.9-litre Ddi intercooled turbodiesel engine for the first time. This unit produces an equally impressive 110 kW and a stout 350 Nm torque to get the ‘baby’ mu-X going commendably. This unit won’t thrill you with outright performance or towing ability as the reduced power output sees the towing prowess drop from 3.5 tons braked to 2.1 tons braked. For most, this won’t be an issue, and the 1.9 LS will still haul your trailer or caravan relatively easily.
Where you will win is at the pumps, though. Isuzu claims a combined cycle fuel consumption figure of 7 l/100km, and on our test drive, we got it well below this on the open road, with figures dropping to as low as 6.4. Even without trying and while putting the new mu-X through its paces, the figure wasn’t far off of that 7 l/100km figure.
Comfort and convenience
The Isuzu mu-X 1.9 LS is only available in a 4×2 format at this current stage. Considerations may be given to a 4×4 option should the reception of the 4×2 version be positive, but for now, you will need to spring for a 3.0-litre version if 4×4 is your bag, and you absolutely have to have drive sent to all four wheels.
What you will get, though, is a 6-speed automatic gearbox. Ideal for the daily commute and that long jaunt across the country, the slick, self-shifting transmission makes this mu-X a pleasure to drive both in town and on the open road.
The LS trim level is the lowest you will find in the Isuzu mu-X range, but that doesn’t mean you will feel short-changed. You will still be treated to leather upholstery, a leather-bound steering wheel, air conditioning with ventilation controls throughout the cabin, electrically adjustable front seats, and biLED headlights as standard.
A 7-inch infotainment system keeps you connected and supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto with a host of USB charging ports scattered around the cabin. This unit is a simple system that is sometimes slow to respond and lacks display clarity, but it functions as intended and will keep you connected and entertained.
Safety systems
Cutting back on displacement doesn’t mean cutting back on the safety features, and the 1.9 LS still has a host of safety systems to ensure you and your passengers’ safety. You will get 7 airbags as well as Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with Traction Control, ABS brakes with Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist System (BAS), Brake Override Accelerator (BOA), Hill Start Assist (HAS), Hill Descent Control (HDC), Trailer Sway Control, and Cruise Control.
Pricing
The whole appeal of the new Isuzu mu-X 1.9 LS is to be affordable and offer an alternative to the 3.0-litre variant that may be a little overkill for many. To achieve this, Isuzu has listed the mu-X 1.9 LS at a very reasonable R708 000. Bundled with this is a 5-year/90 000 km service plan, and 5-year/120 000 km warranty.
Keyword: Isuzu mu-X 1.9 LS 4x2 AT (2023) first drive review