2025 Isuzu MU-X evaluation | CarExpert

One in all Australia’s hottest seven-seat off-road SUVs now appears, drives and infotains even higher.

The Isuzu MU-X has are available in for a complete mid-life makeover for 2025, bringing a sequence of beauty, tools, multimedia and chassis upgrades, plus a brand new X-Terrain flagship (as examined right here).

Discovering greater than 100,000 Australian properties since 2013, the D-Max ute-based wagon entered its second technology in mid-2021 and have become the nation’s second best-selling massive SUV behind the Ford Everest in 2024, when nearly 18,000 examples had been offered domestically – up nearly 30 per cent on 2023 – serving to Isuzu Ute Australia to stay a top-10 auto model with simply two fashions.

On sale from March 1, the facelifted MU-X brings carryover four-cylinder turbo-diesel powertrains, however now provides extra commonplace options, an enhanced security suite, upgraded infotainment and enhancements to the way in which it drives each on-road and off.

The broadest MU-X vary ever now consists of 4 tools grades for a complete of 10 mannequin variants – greater than its seven-seat ladder-frame SUV rivals together with the Ford Everest, Toyota Prado and Fortuner, LDV D90, SsangYong Rexton and the soon-to-depart Mitsubishi Pajero Sport. And there’s a hardcore Blade flagship model to come back.

Bringing it into line with the facelifted D-Max, revised exterior styling throughout the vary consists of sleeker bi-LED headlights that also incorporate LED daytime operating lights, however together with the brand new decrease foglight surrounds they’re extra aggressively angled in the direction of a brand new tackle Isuzu’s ‘Hexa Pod’ grille.

A brand new bonnet with full-length creases completes the taller and squarer new front-end design, which is complemented by gloss black fender accents, sidesteps, rood rails and mirror caps on LS-T and XT variants (magnetite, materials black or chrome on LS-M and LS-U).

On the rear, a brand new full-width trim piece hyperlinks the now all-LED tail-lights and there’s a brand new built-in spoiler beneath the glass.

The bottom LS-M retains the identical 17-inch six-spoke alloy wheels with all-terrain tyres from 2024, however the remainder of the vary options new alloys with freeway terrain tyres. The LS-U wears 18-inch 12-spoke alloys completed in titanium metallic, whereas the LS-T will get 20-inch six-spoke machined-face alloys with a 3D texture.

Accessible in an unique new hero Slate Gray metallic hue, the brand new black-themed ‘XT’ hero variant is distinguished by a singular tackle Isuzu’s signature double horizontal-bar grille, and options fog mild surrounds, 20-inch alloy wheels and fender flares all completed in gloss black.

Decrease rear and facet physique skirts full the sportier aesthetic, alongside embossed ‘XT’ badges on the fenders, grille and tailgate.

To see how the Isuzu MU-X traces up towards the competitors, try our comparability instrument

How a lot does the Isuzu MU-X price?

The up to date MU-X has obtained worth hikes starting from $1000 and $2000 over the pre-update mannequin.

Pricing now ranges between $46,990 drive-away for the entry-level 1.9-litre LS-M 4×2, and $73,990 drive-away for the range-topping 3.0-litre X-Terrain 4×4, which replaces the Tour Mate because the top-shelf MU-X.

All pricing excludes on-road prices until famous in any other case.

To see how the Isuzu MU-X traces up towards the competitors, try our comparability instrument

What’s the Isuzu MU-X like on the within?

Adjustments inside are much less intensive, but in addition as per the D-Max the headline act here’s a new touchscreen infotainment show now with tuning and quantity dials, that are vastly extra intuitive and simpler to make use of than the push buttons they change, addressing a serious criticism of the earlier MU-X.

It’s a much bigger unit (8.0-inch, up from 7.0-inch) and is paired with a four-speaker sound system within the entry-level LS-M, nevertheless it nonetheless measures 9.0 inches from LS-U variants and upwards, which include an eight-speaker sound system. Each new touchscreens supply higher-resolution readability and faster-reacting processing velocity.

All fashions now additionally include each wired and wi-fi Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, plus voice recognition, DAB+ digital radio, and shows for the Terrain Command 4×4 drive modes, ADAS, inclinometer and electrical techniques.

The MU-X’s inside has at all times been higher appointed than that of its D-Max sister mannequin, with extra tender supplies utilized to frequent contact factors just like the arm rests, centre console and likewise the entrance and high of the dashboard, all with white stitching.

Making it a nicer place to take a seat in than its ute sibling, this materials is matched on the door playing cards and centre tunnel, the place the inboard knees of entrance occupants relaxation.

For MY25, all variants now additionally obtain new inside seat upholstery and cabin accents. LS-M and LS-U grades achieve up to date material trim with a vertical wave sample, and LS-T and XT grades obtain perforated leather-accented seat trim (plus seat heating and energy adjustment up entrance).

In response to suggestions, all fashions additionally obtain a new-look steering wheel with ‘Hexa Pod’ centre boss (plus leather-based trim in LS-U, LS-T and XT grades).

And just like the MY25 D-Max, there’s an up to date 4.2-inch instrument cluster display for the LS-M, with LS-U, LS-T and XT variants scoring a high-definition 7.0-inch display that provides navigation prompts, tyre stress monitoring and different data.

There’s extra exhausting plastic surrounding the smaller central multimedia display within the entry-level LS-M, which additionally lacks dual-zone local weather management, piano black centre stack highlights and partial leather-based seat trim, however its cloth-trimmed seats are nonetheless snug and supportive sufficient.

However all MU-X variants get seven seats, with overhead air-conditioning vents and twin cupholders for all three rows, together with useful pop-out items at every finish of the sprint, as seen in premium variations of the Ranger.

Entry to the third row is through a easy one-touch tumble-fold mechanism for the middle-row bench, making ingress/egress comparatively straightforward, and all three rows fold right down to create a protracted and totally flat load area.

However whereas head and shoulder room is okay, the third row could be very a lot a knees-up proposition for adults and there’s no USB-A or USB-C again there (as there are within the entrance two rows), and no youngster seat anchors as seen within the center row, the place there are two ISOFIX and two top-tether factors.

The brand new X-Terrain flagship goes one step additional than the remainder of the vary and takes inside design cues from the D-Max XT by including double crimson stitching throughout the dashboard, centre console and the leather-accented seat trim, plus crimson ambient lighting for the sprint, all 4 doorways and footwells (as an alternative of white as within the LS-T).

As well as, the X-Terrain beneficial properties a singular crimson theme for the brand new 7.0-inch instrument cluster display, plus darkish gray and piano black cabin appointments in lieu of the chrome, silver, black and gray accents seen throughout the remainder of the vary.

There’s not quite a lot of distinction, nevertheless it does carry the inside atmosphere somewhat for the most costly MU-X ever offered.

To see how the Isuzu MU-X traces up towards the competitors, try our comparability instrument

What’s beneath the bonnet?

The MU-X vary continues to be accessible with two four-cylinder turbo-diesel engines, matched to a six-speed automated transmission as commonplace, together with Isuzu’s trusty big-bore ‘4J’ 3.0-litre oil-burner producing 140kW of energy and 450Nm of torque, and the newer downsized 1.9-litre turbo-diesel providing 30kW and 100Nm much less.

Whereas the larger 3.0-litre engine is out there throughout the vary with each 4×2 and 4×4 drivetrains (excluding the 4×4-only X-Terrain), the smaller 1.9-litre engine might be had in simply 4×2 and 4×4 variations of the bottom LS-M, and the LS-U 4×4.

There’s potential for a brand new 2.2-litre turbo-diesel with eight-speed auto to affix the vary in future, together with a variety of electrified powertrains together with mild-hybrid and full-electric variations to satisfy Australia’s tightening CO2 emissions laws.

Nonetheless, the most cost effective and most effective rear-wheel drive variations of the MU-X will finally be axed to keep away from penalties from the New Car Effectivity Normal, as a result of they don’t meet the decrease CO2 limits for passengers automobiles, which they’re classed as since they lack four-wheel drive.

4×4 fashions have a switchable 4WD system with high- and low-range gearing and a locking rear differential.

To see how the Isuzu MU-X traces up towards the competitors, try our comparability instrument

How does the Isuzu MU-X drive?

This thorough midlife makeover extends to a contemporary domestically examined and validated suspension tune bringing new dampers with 6.6 per cent bigger diameter pistons and revised valving, which is claimed to enhance physique management and stability at mid-to-high speeds and on corrugations.

We didn’t discover a lot distinction on the launch, however that’s as a result of the MU-X was already a really strong freeway, backroad and outback tourer, with a comparatively quiet cabin, strong refinement and nice stability at velocity making this seven-seat wagon nicely suited to something from japanese seaboard holidays to cross-country treks.

No, it’s not as nimble, dynamic or environment friendly as any car-based (monocoque) massive SUV, and in case you don’t plan to move off-road you need to actually look elsewhere.

However for adventurous households, weekend warriors or gray nomads doing the Large Lap, this split-personality SUV’s trumpcard is its off-road skill, which was bolstered by some critically difficult rocky hill climbs at Queensland’s lately reopened Black Duck Valley 4×4 park that shaped a part of our launch drive.

Nothing stopped progress of the massive convoy of press automobiles, all of which accomplished the Blue-graded course (more durable than the Yellow boundary and Orange intermediate tracks, however simpler than the Pink-graded tracks reserved just for modified off-roaders) with none injury, regardless of varied ranges of off-road driving expertise.

Even on its highway-terrain tyres (albeit in 4L and with a decrease 24psi of stress), the X-Terrain crawled slowly and purposefully up the steepest, loosest sections plagued by massive rocks and ruts, demonstrating the value of the recalibrated Tough Terrain Mode, which as in associated D-Max 4×4 automobiles now works in tandem with the rear differential locked.

It’s a really efficient low-speed traction management system for the entrance axle and it really works by sending torque to the tyre with essentially the most traction. It is available in particularly useful when considered one of them is cocked excessive within the air, working faithfully even if you’re asking a lot from the one on the bottom that air is puffing out previous the bead.

Regardless of its even better off-road functionality, it doesn’t come on the expense of on-road friendliness. It’d lack the Everest’s final panache and V6 availability (one thing the Prado doesn’t supply both), however the MU-X delivers loads of punch regardless of its decrease engine outputs, plus the benchmark 3500kg towing capability, or 3000kg for 1.9L variations.

The dearth of a manufacturing facility wi-fi telephone charger is about its solely shortcoming on the subject of know-how, and the brand new reversing and 360-degree cameras are a giant step ahead, particularly the latter with its intelligent under-vehicle view.

However there’s no lane centring so the MU-X nonetheless ping-pongs between lane markings, and its upgraded energetic cruise management system slowed down dramatically on the freeway a few instances after sensing thriller automobiles forward.

To its benefit, nevertheless, it nonetheless gives a really analogue driving expertise that’s largely devoid of annoying security nannies.

To see how the Isuzu MU-X traces up towards the competitors, try our comparability instrument

What do you get?

The 2025 Isuzu MU-X comes with a number of ordinary tools additions, headlined by new infotainment touchscreens now with tuning and quantity dials somewhat than push buttons.

2025 Isuzu MU-X LS-M tools highlights:

• 17-inch six-spoke silver alloy wheels with 255/65R17 Dunlop AT25 All-Terrain tyres
• Bi-LED headlights
• Automated high-beam
• Rain-sensing wipers
• Digital park brake with auto maintain
• Polyurethane steering wheel and shifter
• Carpet flooring
• Material upholstery
• Twin self-importance mirrors
• Push-button begin
• 4.2-inch instrument cluster display
• 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system
• Wi-fi Apple CarPlay
• Wi-fi Android Auto (NEW)
• 4-speaker sound system
• 3 x USB-C retailers (2 entrance, 1 in second row) (NEW)
• USB-A outlet for aftermarket sprint digital camera (NEW)
• Air-conditioning with rear passenger air vents and controls
• Door mirrors and door handles completed in black
• Sidesteps completed in black
• Window trims completed in black

MU-X LS-U provides:

• 18-inch 12-spoke titanium metallic alloy wheels with 265/60R18 Bridgestone 684II HT tyres (NEW)
• Good Entry and Begin
• LED fog lights
• Rear privateness glass
• Palms-free energy tailgate
• Rain-sensing wipers
• Energy-folding and heated body-colour door mirrors
• Physique-colour door handles
• 7.0-inch instrument cluster display (NEW)
• 9.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system
• Satellite tv for pc navigation
• DAB+ digital radio
• 8-speaker sound system
• Leather-based-wrapped steering wheel and shifter
• 6-way adjustable driver’s seat, with electrical adjustable lumbar help
• Twin-zone local weather management with rear passenger air vents and controls
• 4 x USB-C retailers (2 entrance, 2 in second row) (NEW)
• Tyre stress monitoring

MU-X LS-T provides:

• 20-inch six-spoke two-tone machined face alloy wheels with 265/50R20 Bridgestone 684II HT tyres
• Door handles, window trims, entrance fender accents, roof rails, facet steps in gloss black (NEW)
• Rear privateness glass
• Distant engine begin
• Energy-folding and heated door mirrors w/ facet cameras completed in gloss black (NEW)
• White ambient inside lighting
• Black headliner
• Heated entrance seats
• 8-way energy driver’s seat with energy lumbar
• 4-way energy passenger seat
• Leather-based-accented upholstery with gray stitching and leatherette throughout door trims, centre console

MU-X X-Terrain provides:

• 20-inch gloss black alloys, coated with a smoked clear coat with 265/50R20 Bridgestone 684II HT tyres
• Up to date LED fog lights with black fog mild bezels and gloss black surrounds
• Gloss black fender flares
• Decrease physique facet skirt
• Decrease rear underbody spoiler
• Piano black and silver metallic inside trim
• Pink inside stitching particulars
• Pink LED ambient inside lighting
• 7.0-inch instrument cluster display with crimson fonts, graphics

To see how the Isuzu MU-X traces up towards the competitors, try our comparability instrument

Colors

There’s a variety of colors accessible. The flagship X-Terrain can also be supplied with a singular end.

The LS-M, LS-U and LS-T can be found within the following finishes:

• Mineral White
• Mercury Silver metallic
• Obsidian Gray metallic
• Neptune Blue mica (NEW)
• Basalt Black mica
• Magnetic Pink mica
• Moonstone White pearl (LS-U and LS-T solely)

The X-Terrain is obtainable solely within the following finishes:

• Moonstone White pearl
• Mercury Silver metallic
• Basalt Black mica
• Slate Gray metallic (NEW)

All premium paints (pearl, metallic and mica; or something apart from commonplace Mineral White) price an extra $695 (up from $650).

To see how the Isuzu MU-X traces up towards the competitors, try our comparability instrument

Is the Isuzu MU-X protected?

The Isuzu MU-X has a five-star security score from ANCAP, issued in July 2022 after a redesign to the motive force’s knee airbag and instrument panel.

It obtained an grownup occupant safety rating of 86 per cent, youngster occupant safety rating of 85 per cent, weak highway consumer safety rating of 69 per cent, and security help rating of 84 per cent.

For MY25, the MU-X’s superior driver help techniques (ADAS) security suite beneficial properties new {hardware}, options and refinements, together with a brand new ‘Gen4’ stereo digital camera that detects pedestrians, cyclists, bikes and different automobiles with better velocity and accuracy.

This improves its autonomous emergency braking (AEB) system because of elevated peripheral imaginative and prescient and depth notion, with a subject of view (FOV) improve of 200 per cent and from 40 to 120 levels, whereas automobile detection vary will increase by 25 per cent, from 120 to 150m.

The brand new Clever Adaptive Cruise Management (IACC) works with site visitors signal recognition to learn non permanent roadwork velocity indicators and overhead digital gantry indicators to help the motive force in matching the posted velocity restrict.

The brand new Site visitors Jam Help (TJA) perform is an extension of IACC and maintains automobile velocity and distance with the automobile forward at speeds beneath 60km/h.

There’s additionally up to date lane-keep help, stated to supply smoother steering correction inputs and to actively preserve the automobile’s place within the centre of the lane, somewhat than reacting to the outer lane markings, throughout a wider vary of car speeds from standstill as much as 140km/h.

Additionally in response to buyer suggestions is a brand new digital reversing digital camera for all fashions, which reinforces picture high quality and low-light efficiency, will increase the sphere of view, consists of revised dynamic tips with a hitch information, and has a hydrophobic coating to stop water and dust build-up, offering higher visibility particularly off-road.

Different new MY25 security options embrace Rear Cross Site visitors Brake (RCTB) a rear AEB system that detects and reacts to approaching automobiles, cyclists, and pedestrians when reversing.

A surround-view digital camera is commonplace on the LS-T and X-Terrain, supplying you with hen’s eye, hitch, and under-body views that routinely have interaction throughout particular situations equivalent to reversing or driving at low speeds close to potential obstacles.

Normal security tools consists of:

• 8 airbags – twin entrance, twin seat facet, twin full-length curtain, entrance knee and centre (far-side)
• Autonomous emergency braking with Flip Help
• Adaptive cruise management
• Blind-spot monitoring
• Driver consideration monitoring
• Lane-keep help
• Emergency lane-keep help
• Mis-acceleration Mitigation
• Rear cross-traffic help (NEW)
• Clever velocity limiter
• Reversing digital camera
• Rear parking sensors
• Site visitors Jam Help
• Site visitors signal recognition
• Trailer sway management
• Tyre stress monitoring

The LS-U provides entrance parking sensors, whereas the LS-T and X-Terrain additionally get a surround-view digital camera.

To see how the Isuzu MU-X traces up towards the competitors, try our comparability instrument

How a lot does the Isuzu MU-X price to run?

The 2025 Isuzu MU-X is roofed by a six-year, 150,000km guarantee. While you service on schedule at an Isuzu vendor, as much as seven years of roadside help is obtainable.

Logbook servicing is required each 12 months or 15,000km, whichever comes first, aside from a complimentary three-month service. 

Every of the primary 5 scheduled providers are capped at $469, which is $20 greater than earlier than.

To see how the Isuzu MU-X traces up towards the competitors, try our comparability instrument

CarExpert’s Tackle the Isuzu MU-X

As evidenced by its reputation, the present technology MU-X has lengthy been the most effective massive off-road SUVs accessible, providing benchmark security tools and aggressive multimedia, refinement, efficiency and functionality, each on highway and off.

Now, lower than 4 years after its launch, a radical midlife improve addresses the few complaints levelled at it by prospects and the media, and provides a classier new X-Terrain flagship that takes this mannequin line to new heights when it comes to pricing and market positioning.

Certainly, the MU-X has by no means been the most cost effective in its class, nevertheless it’s a greater automobile than the cheaper D90, Rexton, Fortuner and Pajero Sport, so the minor worth rises are nicely definitely worth the enhancements to its exterior design, infotainment ergonomics and know-how suite, particularly in mild of the brand new Prado’s beginning worth, which is across the identical because the Isuzu’s ending worth.

In the event you’re out there for an completed go-anywhere seven-seater with a protracted guarantee, you’d now be even sillier to not think about this one earlier than you join an Everest or Prado.

Fascinated with shopping for an Isuzu MU-X? Get in contact with considered one of CarExpert’s trusted sellers right here

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