By Staff Reporter

Isuzu has revealed a refreshed version of its seven-seater mu-X SUV which plays in the booming bakkie based SUV segment. Whilst the D-Max, that the mu-X is based on, is a top contender in the bakkie segment, the mu-X has not had as much success in its space so far, playing a distant third to the competition. Isuzu is not taking thing lying sown, and taking the fight to the competition by giving the mu-X styling enhancements for the exterior and interior, and upgrades to its safety offering.

Exterior

The front of the refreshed mu-X features a bolder radiator grille design that is complemented by a restyled front bumper incorporating colour coding for the upper section and a contrasting gloss black finish for the lower portion, as well as for the fog lamp bezels. Coming in as standard are LED daytime running lights and bi-LED projector headlamps with auto-levelling functionality.

At the rear, the refreshed mu-X SUV sees the introduction of a colour-coded upper section for the rear bumper, gloss back treatment for the lower trim, two-tone silver and black roof rails, as well as new tail light clusters with a combination of chrome and gloss black finishes

Rounding up the exterior look are new 18-inch gloss black diamond-cut alloy wheels and a new gloss black finish for the side steps.

Interior

Sublet changes that are meant to make the mu-X look and feel upmarket are introduced inside. Piano black finishes have been adopted for the door switch bezels and trim panels, gear shift surround as well as the centre stack for the infotainment system and climate control. Additionally, the switches located on the leather-trimmed steering wheel for the audio system, phone functions and cruise control are picked out in black with a silver garnish, while ambient lighting has been introduced in the door trims.

Upgraded safety

On the safety front, a new addition to the mu-X is the Brake Override System, derived from the D-MAX. The system is linked to the ABS braking system, and restricts accelerator input if the brakes are applied at the same time – thereby reducing the vehicle’s stopping distance in an emergency.

Engine

The mu-X is powered by Isuzu’s proven and exceptionally reliable 3.0-litre four-cylinder intercooled turbodiesel engine that produces 130kW of power and 380 Nm of torque. It is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission which includes a sequential sport mode.

Pricing

Pricing for the Isuzu mu-X is as follows:

• Isuzu mu-X 3.0 4X2 6AT                 R630,400
• Isuzu mu-X 3.0 4×4 6AT                  R698,200

The Isuzu mu-X comes standard with Isuzu Complete Care, comprising a five-year/120 000km bumper-to-bumper warranty and Isuzu Roadside Assistance, a five-year/unlimited km anti-corrosion warranty and a five-year/90 000km Service Plan.