Mu-X is a frugal, well-priced 1.9-litre turbodiesel SUV
Based on the D-Max bakkie, Isuzu’s mu-X has always been the bargain family SUV. We enjoy its large, solid Japanese feel. Handsome too, it’s a solid option in a busy market space.
Until now, it was only available with the latest incarnation of Isuzu’s good old 140 kW 450 Nm 3 litre four-pot turbodiesel. A great engine, some may call it a tad agricultural. And a little thirsty in this modern downsized realm.
That’s all changed, however. Isuzu has finally inserted its modern new 1.9-litre turbodiesel four-pot into its SUV too. We already know the lump from the D-Max bakkies, so it’s no stranger. We however found the smaller engine to be really good fit in this SUV.
Far more economical, not too much slower
Producing just 110 kW at a relatively low 3,600 rpm peak, its 350 Nm brings it back in a decent band between 1600 and 2600 revs. It has reasonable power, but the performance difference versus big brother 3-litre is hardly worth writing home about. Its close enough that you’d never notice. There’s a touch of turbo lag, but that’s it.
This 1.9 however has another major advantage. It makes its biggest impression at the fuel pump. Supremely economical for a vehicle of its size at a claimed 7 litres per hundred, you should have no trouble driving over 1,050 km on a tank. And driven accordingly on the open road we’d bet you’ll get from Jozi to the Cape on a tank, no problem.
The Isuzu mu-X 1.9 TD LX also dumps 4×4 for rear wheel drive. To even further boost economy, while also making it a true bargain versus a similarly specced 3-litre 4×4. In fact, you’re on the road at almost two hundred grand off with this one.
Mu-X 1.9 a good, comfy all-round package
Coupled to a handy six-speed automatic, it shifts when it should. Comfortable seats, and a pleasant, spacious driving environment further conspire to deliver a good all-round package. Mu-X also rides on a locally honed front and rear suspension design to reduce body roll.
Road holding impressed for a vehicle this size both on and off the road. Add sharp brakes and traction control too. One aspect the 1.9 does lack, is the 3-litre’s 3.5-tonne braked trailer capacity. Still, you can still tug most anything at its 2.1 tonne rating.
Easy on the eye, not much else changes on the 1.9 either. That same China doll grille yields to strong character lined flanks punctuated by smart 18-inch alloys shod with 265/60 R18 rubber. The doors click open, and thud firmly closed.
regular seven mu-X seats, giant boot
Built from the ground up as a seven seater, like most of them, mu-X has a third row. In case you must carry more small people, or big people for short distances. The rearmost pews also stow into the floor to make a mammoth boot, accessed by a height adjustable tailgate.
The ambient lit dual zone climate controlled cabin features responsive steering wheel and touch controlled 9-inch infotainment with CarPlay, Auto, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and eight-speaker audio. There’s an off-centre low resolution rear-view camera too.
It may seem a bit too plasticky inside and fit and finish is shoddy in places. So build quality could be better. But mu-X is 5-star ANCAP safety rated.
All in all, the far more frugal, far less expensive 1.9TD DC LS is a hugely welcome addition to the already great value for money mu-X range. Which is exactly what we expect from Isuzu. – Michele Lupini
Images & testing: Giordano Lupini
ROAD TESTED: Isuzu mu-X 1.9 DC LS Engine: 140 kW 450 Nm 1.9-litre turbodiesel I4 Drive: 6-speed automatic RWD Max Braked Trailer 2,100 kg TESTED: 0-60 km/h: 4.85 sec 0-100 km/h: 11.30 sec 0-120 km/h: 15.61 sec 0-160 km/h: 32.67 sec 400m: 17.7 sec @ 126 km/h 80-120 km/h: 8.19 sec 120-160 km/h: 17.05 sec CLAIMED: VMax: 185 km/h Fuel: 7 l/100 km CO2: 185 g/km Range: 1,050 km Warranty/Service: 5y 120K/5y 90K km LIST PRICE: R708K How does it shape up? Check Auto's Test Records now!