Flagship mu-X goes seven figures. We say it’s worth it.
Perhaps its biggest claim to fame, is this flagship mu-X Onyx XT is first Isuzu to pass the million rand threshold. But we reckon the secret weapon of 7-seater adventure SUVs is certainly worth that salt. Also Isuzu’s first attempt at flashier mu-X, it competes with high-end rivals like the Toyota Fortuner and Ford Everest.
Ever so slightly more expensive than the 150 kW R1.01 million Fortuner GR-S, the R1.02-million 140 kW million mu-X 3 XT undercuts the R1.04 million 154 kW Everest Sport. The difference being that while every man and his dog has one of the others, you’ll likely be the only one on the block, and beyond with one of these Isuzus.
Based closely on the regular LXE, the changes are all cosmetic, inside and out. Our battleship grey tester certainly looked the part. Of course mu-X was recently enhanced and this latest evolution of Isuzu’s adventurous sport utility raises the bar with improved styling, upgraded technology and safety, and refined driving dynamics to the table.
XT adds bold and dynamic to mu-X
Bolder and more dynamic, mu-X has a contemporary grille complete with revised Isuzu badge and unique XT black finish in this case, between aggressive bi-beam tech LED daytime running headlamps atop an all-new and far more aggro bumper. Combination LED taillights cross the tailgate, where another revised bumper, a mid-level spoiler, and new badging also reside.
Take all that and add this XT’s darkened premium cosmetic and tech upgrades and we reckon its even more of a winner. 20-inch gloss black alloys, metallic bumper accents and body colour coded tweaks and Onyx black side mirrors certainly up the ante. We enjoyed the regular car’s large, solid Japanese feel. Easy on the eye and now even more China doll looking, this XT trim just makes it all pop even better.
The doors click open and thud firmly closed as you step aboard. Comfort and sophistication is immediately apparent. Ambient lit, the dual zone climate control cabin brings a pleasant, spacious driving environment. The dash, red stitched leather XT seat patterns, new trim and footwell and overhead console illumination add to the premium feel.
XT kit adds to an already classy cabin
Exclusive XT upholstery further adds to the already classy piano black finished high-resolution 9” infotainment. It even retains those all-important knobs and switches. It’s also fully CarPlay and Auto connective via wireless Bluetooth or USB cable. Add eight-speaker audio new multiple angle 360-degree broad field surround view, while semi-analogue dials include a 7” multi-screen.
There’s a customisable welcome function, follow-me-home lighting and a hands-free power tailgate. Built from the ground up as a seven seater right here in sunny South Africa, the mu-X has a third row in case you need to carry seven small people far, or seven large people not too far. The rearmost pews also stow into the floor to make a mammoth boot accessed by a height adjustable tailgate.
There’s nothing new under the bonnet. Isuzu’s pioneering creamy 140 kW 450 Nm 3 litre four-pot turbodiesel is quiet once running, smooth, and effortless. Makes mu-X easy to drive. A great engine, some may call it a tad agricultural. And a little thirsty in this modern downsized world. That said, this car was most elastic and responsive in our tests.
A well-trusted Isuzu powertrain
It’s mated to the best Isuzu 6 speed auto gearbox we’ve driven. Pulls strong from low down the rev range, tends toward its higher cogs and shifts as it should. The fuzzy logic auto box soon learns how you prefer to drive, while shifter paddles allow you to override the auto patterns whenever you so desire.
Th mu-X of course rides on locally honed suspension. Larger diameter dampers bring composure both on and off the road. Steering is responsive and you need to work to get that body to roll, Road holding is good for a car of this size, both on and off road. It also matches its best rivals’ 3.5-ton braked trailer capacity.
Fine chassis tuning, good suspension articulation and travel takes extreme off-roading in its stride. And that in 4×2 diff lock. There’s still 4×4 if you need it. Add sharp brakes, traction control and a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Packed with all form of driver assistance, you can extinguish it if it bugs you with a three second prod on the steering button on the wheel. Thank Auto for that!
Welcome to the club, Isuzu!
As far as bargain family SUVs go, the Isuzu mu-X packs it pretty well all in and then some to deliver a decent bargain. Add this premium XT trim to that and you have the first million buck Isuzu.
Competitive with the compatible Fortuner GR-S and Everest Sport, don’t ignore this high value, all-round capable Isuzu if you’re shopping for a decent family SUV. And yes, it’s worth those seven figures for sure. Welcome to the club, Isuzu! – Michele Lupini
Images & testing: Giordano Lupini
ROAD TESTED: Isuzu mu-X 3.0TD Onyx XT
Engine: 140 kW 450 Nm 3-litre turbodiesel H4
Drive: 6-speed automatic 4x4
Max Braked Trailer 3,500 kg
TESTED:
0-60 km/h: 3.73 sec
0-100 km/h: 9.59 sec
0-120 km/h: 13.59 sec
0-160 km/h: 27.77 sec
400m: 16.6 sec @ 135 km/h
80-120 km/h: 7.26 sec
120-160 km/h: 14.18 sec
CLAIMED:
VMax: 180 km/h
Fuel: 7.6 l/100 km
CO2: 200 g/km
Range: 1050 km
Warranty/Service: 5y 120K/5y 90K km
LIST PRICE: R1.02M
How does it compare?
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