The Isuzu MU-X has built a strong reputation in Australia as a dependable and rugged seven-seat SUV, blending workhorse durability with family-friendly practicality. Now, for 2025, Isuzu has introduced its most comprehensive update yet for the current generation, refining the design, technology, and capability based on years of customer and media feedback.
Isuzu has also introduced a new range-topping X-Terrain variant, as a cousin to the popular D-Max X-Terrain, further broadening the lineup. Speaking of the lineup, it spans a generous 10 variants now, with a choice between a 1.9-litre and 3.0-litre turbo-diesel.
2025 Isuzu MU-X X-Terrain: Specifications
Engine: 3.0-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder
Output: 140kW@3600rpm / 450Nm@1600-2600rpm
Gearbox: Six-speed auto
Drive type: RWD/4WD
Official consumption: 8.3L/100km
Fuel tank/Fuel type: 80L/Diesel
0-100km/h: 10.40 seconds*
Starting price: $73,990 (drive-away)[/lgc_column]
*Figures as tested by Driving Enthusiast on the day. Manufacturers’ claims may be different
2025 Isuzu MU-X: How much does it cost?
Prices start from $46,990 and top out at $73,990 drive-away, although all other prices – except LS-T – are not drive-away. Compared with the 2024 model spectrum, it started from $47,400 for the base and topped out at $69,400 for the LS-T, excluding on-road costs. It’s worth noting the 4×2 models will soon be dropped in preparation for the NVES regulations. See below for the full lineup:
- Isuzu MU-X LS-M 1.9L 4×2: $48,400 ($46,990 drive-away)
- Isuzu MU-X LS-M 3.0L 4×2: $50,400
- Isuzu MU-X LS-U 3.0L 4×2: $57,400
- Isuzu MU-X LS-T 3.0L 4×2: $65,400
- Isuzu MU-X LS-M 1.9L 4×4: $54,400
- Isuzu MU-X LS-U 1.9L 4×4: $61,400
- Isuzu MU-X LS-M 3.0L 4×4: $56,400
- Isuzu MU-X LS-U 3.0L 4×4: $63,400
- Isuzu MU-X LS-T 3.0L 4×4: $71,400 ($69,990 drive-away)
- Isuzu MU-X X-Terrain 3.0L 4×4: $74,400 ($73,990 drive-away)
2025 Isuzu MU-X: Interior & packaging
Inside, the MU-X continues to focus on practicality, comfort, and user-friendliness. A key upgrade is the infotainment system, now featuring an 8.0-inch touch-screen in the base LS-M and a larger 9.0-inch display in LS-U, LS-T, and X-Terrain variants.
Both support wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with additional controls for off-road functions such as the inclinometer and terrain management settings. The 9.0-inch system also integrates satellite navigation and an upgraded Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), displaying real-time tyre pressures and temperatures.
The instrument cluster has been modernised, with the LS-M receiving a 4.2-inch Multi-Information Display (MID), while higher variants get a 7.0-inch unit. This larger screen provides navigation prompts, safety alerts, and trip information while allowing drivers to customise settings via the steering wheel buttons. It’s a bit fiddly but there are plenty of options to play with.
The LS-M and LS-U feature quality cloth upholstery, while the LS-T and X-Terrain offer perforated leather-accented seats with heating and electric adjustability for the front row. The X-Terrain also introduces a sportier red-stitched pattern, with ambient lighting, adding a premium/sporty feel.
With its seven-seat layout, the MU-X retains its reputation for versatility. The second and third rows fold flat to create up to 2138 litres of cargo space, making it one of the most practical SUVs in its class. The addition of a hands-free electric tailgate on LS-U, LS-T, and X-Terrain further improves convenience.
Seating space in the third row remains near the top of the class. I can fit in with reasonable comfort (170cm tall), although, it could be made even more comfortable if Isuzu offered a sliding middle row. Nonetheless, if you need seven seats and you’re going to use them regularly, the MU-X should be high on your list.
2025 Isuzu MU-X: Powertrain & handling
Isuzu continues to offer two turbo-diesel powertrains across the MU-X range; a 1.9-litre unit producing a rather weak 110kW and 350Nm, and the more powerful 3.0-litre ‘4JJ’ developing the same 140kW and 450Nm as before. Both are paired with a no-fuss six-speed automatic transmission, with 4×2 and 4×4 options available.
While the smaller 1.9-litre engine is best suited for urban commuting and lighter duties, the 3.0-litre remains the preferred choice for towing and carting around the full family. The larger engine provides strong mid-range torque, peaking between 1600-2600rpm, making highway cruising and overtaking quite easy. We timed 0-100km/h in 10.40 seconds during this event with the Vbox, in the heaviest X-Terrain variant.
It also retains the maximum 3500kg braked towing capacity. However, with a gross combination mass of 5900kg, minus the 2195kg kerb weight of the X-Terrain, and you’re left with just 205kg for payload. That’s 205kg for all the family and their gear, and anything you want to store in the 3500kg trailer. Some competitors offer higher payloads, such as the Ford Everest Sport V6 (295kg leftover payload), and Toyota Prado Kakadu (505kg).
A major update for 2025 is revised suspension tuning, designed to improve both ride quality and handling. New dampers with larger (6.6%) diameter pistons are aimed at providing better body control and stability over rough terrain and corrugated roads. It does feel a bit nicer to drive on county roads, with fewer vibrations exposed to the cabin.
For off-road enthusiasts, the MU-X retains its selectable dual-range 4WD system, a rear differential lock, and updated Rough Terrain Mode (RTM). This traction-control-based system distributes torque to maximise traction on slippery surfaces and works in conjunction with the rear diff lock and low-range to help the front axle.
A 360-degree Surround View Monitor (SVM) is finally introduced on LS-T and X-Terrain models, providing multiple camera angles to assist with parking, off-road navigation, and trailer hitching. The MU-X has fallen behind on this tech for quite a few years now while rivals edged ahead. So it is good to see this being introduced.
Despite its body-on-frame construction, the MU-X feels stable and predictable on the road, with light steering making it easy to manoeuvre in urban environments. The latest aerodynamic refinements, including front air curtains, also contribute to reduced wind noise.
2025 Isuzu MU-X: First impressions
The 2025 Isuzu MU-X builds upon an already successful formula, introducing meaningful upgrades that enhance its appeal. With more refined suspension, updated technology, and some design tweaks, it remains a top choice in this rugged 7-seater SUV class.
But make no mistake, this is still, fundamentally, a fairly old-school and basic formula. Those looking for fancy tech, complex drive modes and capabilities, and more powerful engines, will continue to shop elsewhere.
The new X-Terrain variant adds a sporty and premium touch as well, catering to buyers who want more style and exclusivity without sacrificing capability. However, we’d like to see a ‘Blade’ variant as well, to take on the likes of the Ford Everest Tremor. Maybe one day…
2025 Isuzu MU-X: Video
