The refreshed Isuzu mu-X is here for the 2023 model year, and we got to sample it. Here are our impressions.
The Isuzu mu-X has always been a 7-seater SUV that is an appealing value proposition, but has now had a bit of work done. (We had both the pre-facelift LSE and Onyx on test – click on the links to find out more!)
For the 2023 model year, the mu-X has been refreshed with some spec upgrades and some aesthetic differences too. The pre-facelift mu-X was already a dependable vehicle as is the case with Isuzu vehicles, but what’s different here?
Expanded Range
The range of the mu-X has been expanded for the South African market to include a total of five 3.0-litre models. Currently, you’ll get the 3.0 LS, LSE and range-topping Onyx. The 3.0 LSE will now be coming with a 4×4 option too with the 4×2 still available. All five models use a 6-speed automatic transmission. A 1.9 LS model will be coming soon too as well as that’s a model that’s focused on value above all else.
What looks new?
The 2023 mu-X includes a few aesthetic changes to add further sophistication. Gone are the Tungsten silver and chrome garnishes in favour of a more subtle dark magnetite colour. You’ll find this colour on the new front grille, and front and rear bumper elements like the fog lamp bezels and lower trim pieces. The tail lamps have also been updated and the Santos Brown colour has been dropped for a new Norwegian Blue. Rounding off the exterior changes are new wheels. On the LS and LSE models, you now get new 18-inch wheels replacing the previous 17 inches, and now you get a full-size matching spare wheel. The Onyx now receives a bling set of 20-inch machined alloys.
The interior receives the same dark Magnetite colour trim as found on the exterior. Revised Leather seats are now standard across the range with 8-way power adjustability and manual lumbar adjustment for the driver and 4-way power adjustment for the front passenger.
New technology?
In addition to the Passive Entry Start System, the upper-spec LSE and Onyx receive a step sensor-activated power tailgate and you even get remote start functionality too to either pre-cool or pre-heat the cabin depending on the season. In the LSE, you now get an auto-dimming rearview mirror and the LS models now gain front and rear parking sensors. Infotainment-wise, the LS models receive a 7-inch touchscreen and 6 speakers, while the LSE receives a 9-inch touchscreen and 8 speakers. The Infotainment system is Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatible with DAB radio, Bluetooth and Wifi.
How does it drive?
The 3.0-litre turbodiesel 4-cylinder churns out 140 kW of power and 450 Nm of torque and is sent to the 4×4 or 4×2 via a 6-speed automatic transmission. In the LSE now, you have steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters. The 4×4 system is electronically controlled via a rotary dial in the cabin to switch between 2H (2-wheel drive) 4×4 high range (4H) and 4×4 low range (4L). You also get a standard rear differential lock.
The refreshed mu-X is as good as you’d expect. Typically Isuzu, it is robust and dependable as well as a pleasant and engaging drive. The way the mu-X drives is quite similar to the D-Max bakkies but with added comfort and convenience features. Some more sound-deadening materials would help during highway commutes to lessen wind noise, and a quicker steering rack would help for urban commuting, but overall it’s a Goliath of a vehicle.
How safe is it?
Standard across-the-range safety includes:
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
- Traction Control
- ABS
- EBD
- Brake Assist System (BAS)
- Brake Override Accelerator (BOA)
- Hill Start Assist
- Hill Descent Control
- Trailer Sway Control
- Front and rear parking sensors with rearview camera
- 8 airbags
- Anti-Theft alarm
Pricing
Pricing is yet to be confirmed for the refreshed mu-X but you can get the following models currently:
- 3.0 LS 4×2 AT
- 3.0 LS 4×4 AT
- 3.0 LSE 4×2 AT
- 3.0 LSE 4×4 AT
- 3.0 Onyx 4×4 AT
The mu-X comes with a 5-year /90 000km service plan, 5-year /120 000km warranty and roadside assistance and 5-year /unlimited km anti-corrosion warranty.
Keyword: Isuzu mu-X (2023) First Drive Review