Isuzu MU-X Long Term Review Part 2
After spending six weeks behind the wheel of the Isuzu MU-X, it’s clear that this SUV is built for those who need a reliable, practical, and adventure-ready vehicle. It’s not about flashy gimmicks – instead, the MU-X focuses on delivering a solid driving experience with real-world usability.
Everyday Driving – Comfortable and Easy to Live With
Despite its size, the MU-X is surprisingly easy to drive. The steering is light, making it manageable in city traffic, and the raised driving position gives you a great view of the road.
The 3.0-litre turbodiesel engine provides plenty of torque, making overtaking effortless. Whether cruising on the highway or navigating steep inclines, the MU-X never feels underpowered. The 6-speed automatic gearbox is smooth, and while it’s not the fastest-shifting transmission out there, it’s well-suited for relaxed driving.
The fuel economy is also impressive for a big SUV. While Isuzu claims 8.3L/100km, real-world figures will likely be slightly higher, especially in urban driving. However, for a seven-seater 4x4 with a proper ladder-frame chassis, it’s still fairly efficient.
Space and Practicality – Built for Families and Adventure
The MU-X shines when it comes to space. With three rows of seats, there’s plenty of room for seven passengers, with the third row being surprisingly spacious enough for adults too. The boot is generous, and with the seats folded down, it offers a massive cargo area – perfect for road trips or outdoor gear.
The Isuzu MU-X has a boot capacity of 311 liters with all three rows of seats in use, 1119 liters with the second row folded down, and 2138 liters with only the front two rows of seats.
For those who love adventure, the MU-X’s 4x4 system is highly capable. Features like low-range gearing, a rear differential lock, and hill descent control make it a great companion for tackling rough terrain. Whether you’re heading to the mountains or the beach, this SUV is ready.
It is a truly confidence-inspiring vehicle. I took the MU-X to the sand dunes, and its performance on low profile highway terrain tyres was truly impressive.
Safety and Tech – A Step Up for Isuzu
Isuzu has packed the MU-X with modern safety features, including:
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Lane Departure Warning
- Blind Spot Monitoring
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert
- Autonomous Emergency Braking
These features make long drives less tiring and add peace of mind when maneuvering in busy areas; however, I did find the Lane Departure Warning to be quite intrusive.
Final Thoughts – Who Should Buy One?
The Isuzu MU-X is a proper workhorse, but it’s also refined enough to be a comfortable daily driver. It’s not trying to be a flashy, tech-heavy SUV – instead, it focuses on being tough, dependable, and practical.
You can consider the MU-X if you want:
- A rugged, capable SUV with real off-road ability.
- A reliable diesel engine that will last for years.
- A practical seven-seater with loads of space.
- A vehicle that can tow heavy loads with ease.
Overall, the Isuzu MU-X delivers exactly what it promises – a durable, go-anywhere SUV that’s built to last. Whether you’re hauling the family around or heading off the beaten path, it’s a vehicle that won’t let you down.
