Isuzu Motors South Africa (IMSA) has introduced the much-anticipated second-generation Isuzu mu-X. Based on the upcoming Isuzu D-MAX bakkie, the introduction of the new mu-X follows the success of the outgoing model which led the segment leader in Australia for seven years.
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The second-generation mu-X boasts bold new styling, a larger and quieter cabin, luxurious materials, and next-generation driver assistance and safety features.
“The new mu-X is a massive step-up for Isuzu. It represents a shift in how customers will view vehicles in this segment in terms of ride quality, luxury, and technology. The new mu-X will not only attract more buyers in this segment but is likely to attract buyers from other segments as well,” says Craig Uren, Senior Vice President Isuzu Sales and Marketing.
Aimed at growing families who want a 7-seater that still fits their lifestyle needs, the new mu-X offers comfort and convenience features for up to seven adults with a cabin that is the largest in the segment. New safety and driver assistance features further make driving long distances a breeze.
The new mu-X is one of the safest vehicles on the road with a 5-star ANCAP rating. The safety rating is driven by Isuzu’s innovative safety systems such as the addition of a centre airbag between the driver and the front passenger, a world-first for the segment. The mu-X also benefits from the use of high tensile steel in key parts of the body structure, making it stronger for better occupant protection and driving performance while being lighter than the outgoing model.
The mu-X will arrive in South Africa with a new version of Isuzu’s formidable 3-litre engine matched to a fast-shifting 6-speed automatic gearbox. Isuzu engineers have paid particular attention to the engine’s performance in three key areas, namely fuel consumption, power, and engine noise. Power is now 140 kW
Bold new look.
The new mu-X debuts Isuzu’s new look for its passenger vehicles, an expression of the brand’s bold identity and pursuit of luxury and exclusivity. Viewed from the front, the mu-X communicates precision and solid build quality evidenced by the execution of new “World Crossflow” front grille and intricate detail of the arrow-shaped Bi-LED headlamps.
The headlamps follow an arrow signature design motif with long sharp outlines which further add to the overall high-quality upmarket appearance.
The side profile of the mu-X is dominated by a signature line running from front to rear, linking the arrow motif headlamps with the rear light 3D winglets. This powerful character line emphasises the powerful, elegant lines of the body.
The rear end combines an advanced look with an elegant yet solid stance. New tailgate badging harmonises with the new mu-X’s design language and presents a keen and elegant look.
The rear lights and indicators are combined in a winglet design with precise LED details which give a sense of depth when seen from behind.
All three models have new alloy wheels, with 20-inch wheels fitted to the top of the range ONYX model, LSE models are fitted with 18-inch alloy wheels and 17-inch wheels on the LS.
Eight paint colours, including five new colours are available; Splash White, Dolomite White, ONYX Black, Mercury Silver, Obsidian Gray, Red Spinel, Santos Brown, and Sapphire blue.
Larger more refined cabin.
Designed and engineered for long cross-country drives, the new Isuzu mu-X has an opulent and elegant cabin atmosphere with room for seven adults. The three-dimensional layout has a solid and elegant design with rich, fine, impressive materials. Gentle elegant lines are finished with layered soft-touch materials, fine and impressive level of craftsmanship which is designed to appeal to all senses.
The layering of textures plus prominent stitching emphasises the thickness of materials. A visual and tactile sense of luxury is achieved by mixing multiple materials such as piano black surfaces, chrome highlights, aluminium, and soft leather.
The luxurious atmosphere of the cabin is enhanced at night by the addition of ambient lighting in the door trim and a roof downlight.
A new Multi-Information Display (MID) provides detailed easy to use menus that control most of the vehicle’s systems. The speedometer and rev counter faces feature a three-dimensional design, while the circumference chrome ring has crystal-like scale divisions reminiscent of high-end watches.
A smaller, sporty leather-wrapped steering wheel and the gear selector are shaped to fit comfortably in the driver’s hands. Chrome highlights on centre console controls and door function switches add a solid look and feel to the interior.
ONYX and LSE models have a new seat design with 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, including power lumbar support adjustment in ONYX models. Top of the range models feature heated front seats and 4-way power adjustment for the passenger seat.
The new seats are wrapped in supple leather, cloth in the LS, and now have larger side bolsters for added comfort on twisty roads.
The mu-X has best in class hip, shoulder, head, and legroom at a generous 915 mm for second-row occupants. The second-row seats are 30 mm wider than the seats in the outgoing model.
ONYX and LSE models have dual-zone climate control with two separate HVAC units to provide individual temperatures for each of the front seat occupants. Buttons for the aircon are designed and positioned for simplified use. All models have roof-mounted aircon vents for second and third-row occupants with separate fan speed control and air conditioning evaporator.
Interior noise levels have been reduced through door sealing structure improvement on the A-Pillar surrounding to improve wind noise. In addition, increased body stiffness and additional noise insulation have contributed to considerably lower cabin noise levels.
Next level Infotainment and convenience features.
The new mu-X has a new infotainment system that has 9 or 7-inch touch screen display units depending on the model. The system has intuitive screen functions along with steering wheel-mounted controls for audio and telephone functions, including voice input. ONYX and LSE models have 8 speakers, while the LS has 6 speakers.
Apple CarPlay (wireless) and Android Auto are standard applications along with Bluetooth voice and audio streaming, Wi-Fi, integrated mobile handsfree and a rear-view camera.
Isuzu’s Intelligent Driver Assistance System (IDAS) makes a debut in the technologically packed range-topping ONYX model. IDAS is a suite of passive and active safety systems that continuously monitor driving conditions and act autonomously to avoid a crash or minimise accident damage.
IDAS functions through a windshield-mounted stereo camera that monitors the road ahead of the vehicle and can detect and recognise vehicles, pedestrians, bicycles, obstacles, lane markings, illustrations, etc.
Model Line-up and pricing.
3.0 Ddi mu-X 4×2 LS A/T Price: R 693, 800.00 including VAT
3.0 Ddi mu-X 4×4 LS A/T Price: R771, 600.00 including VAT
3.0 Ddi mu-X 4×2 LSE A/T Price: R 763,300.00 including VAT
3.0 Ddi mu-X 4×4 ONYX A/T Price: R 860, 500.00 including VAT
All models are covered by the Isuzu Complete Care package with class-leading warranty of 5 years or 120 000 km.
The new mu-X will be available at Isuzu dealerships nationwide from the first week of December 2021.
