In a world where SUVs seem to multiply faster than rabbits, it takes more than just a bold exterior or a flashy badge to stand out. Enter the 2024 Isuzu MU-X. A vehicle that doesn’t shout its virtues from the rooftops but quietly goes about its business with rugged capability and trusty familiarity, and with a price tag that won’t give your bank account heart palpitations.
Let’s address the elephant in the room; the 2024 MU-X doesn’t reinvent the wheel when it comes to design or technology. But what it lacks in groundbreaking aesthetics and gizmos, it makes up for with practicality and good old-fashioned experience.
2024 Isuzu MU-X: Lineup and pricing
Three main trim lines continue, spanning from the LS-M, LS-U, to the LS-T. New for the 2024 model is a 1.9-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder option, available on the LS-M and LS-U only. Prices start from the following (excluding on-road costs):
Isuzu MU-X LS-M 1.9L 4×2: $47,400
Isuzu MU-X LS-M 3.0L 4×2: $49,400
Isuzu MU-X LS-U 3.0L 4×2: $55,900
Isuzu MU-X LS-T 3.0L 4×2: $63,400
Isuzu MU-X LS-M 1.9L 4×4: $53,400
Isuzu MU-X LS-U 1.9L 4×4: $59,900
Isuzu MU-X LS-M 3.0L 4×4: $55,400
Isuzu MU-X LS-U 3.0L 4×4: $61,900
Isuzu MU-X LS-T 3.0L 4×4: $69,400 ($67,990 drive away)
2024 Isuzu MU-X: Interior
Inside, the MU-X doesn’t scream luxury or modernity. The LS-U and LS-T trims add premium touches like leather-accented upholstery, heated seats, and a remote engine start feature (LS-T only), enhancing comfort and convenience without breaking the bank. While the LS-M is quite basic and ‘hard-wearing’.
However, up on the dash is a crude 7.0-inch touch-screen, or 9.0-inch setup for the LS-U and LS-T. They do run Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, as well as digital radio. But the button-operated volume controls, the sheer presence of blank space within the menus, and the cheapo graphics place the system near the bottom of the class in our opinion. There’s also no wireless phone charger to be found, or surround-view camera system.
The ute-based SUV presents a class-leading 311 litres of boot space with all seats up, expanding to a cavernous 1119L with the third row folded, and 2138L with the second and third rows folded flat. This is perfect for those family road trips or hardware store hauls.
2024 Isuzu MU-X: Powertrain
Under the bonnet, Isuzu offers a choice between two turbo-diesel powertrains; the tried-and-true 3.0-litre 4JJ3-TCX four-cylinder, and the newcomer, the RZ4E-TC 1.9L. While the former delivers a hearty-but-class-trailing 140kW and 450Nm, it’s the latter that steals the spotlight with its efficiency.
The 1.9L engine may be smaller in displacement, but don’t let that fool you. With 350Nm on tap, it is capable of handling daily duties, and even towing a heavy boat. It’s just not as effortless as the 3.0L unit, particularly at highway speeds. With a combined cycle fuel economy rating of just 7.4L/100km, it’s a frugal companion on long journeys.
On the road, the MU-X exhibits a composed demeanour, soaking up bumps and imperfections with sturdy confidence thanks to its robust chassis and live-axle rear end. The addition of Isuzu’s Intelligent Driver Assistance System (IDAS) further enhances safety and peace of mind, offering features like autonomous emergency braking (AEB), lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. All of which can be turned off if needed.
Where the MU-X truly shines is in its towing capability. With a maximum braked towing capacity of 3500kg (3000kg for 1.9L) and a gross combination mass of 5900kg (5500kg for 1.9L), it is capable of hauling heavy trailers, caravans, or boats while leaving plenty of leftover payload (around 500kg or more, depending on the variant) for passengers and cargo.
Isuzu has built up a strong reputation for offering great value for money, and the 2024 MU-X is no exception. With prices starting from just $47,400 (excluding on-road costs) for the LS-M 1.9L 4×2 variant, it significantly undercuts its key rivals without sacrificing features.
Furthermore, Isuzu offers a Service Plus customer care plan, offering a five-year flat-price servicing program, a six-year/150,000km warranty, and up to seven years roadside assistance.
2024 Isuzu MU-X: Final word
In a segment cluttered with flashy contenders vying for attention, the 2024 Isuzu MU-X takes a refreshingly pragmatic approach. It doesn’t dazzle with gimmicks or empty promises but instead delivers on the fundamentals: reliability, real-world efficiency, and affordability.
Sure, it may not turn heads like some of its rivals, and some of the technology – and engine outputs – are falling behind, but the MU-X is still a compelling choice for busy families and travel enthusiasts.
2024 Isuzu MU-X: Video
