A Closer Look: The 2025 Isuzu MU-X

Kareem LaTouche

Automotives Coordinator

As an automotive journalist, there’s a certain anticipation that comes with testing a new vehicle. My recent assignment brought me face-to-face with the 2025 Isuzu MU-X 1.9 litre. Upon collecting the vehicle, the dealer was quick to point out that I had received the “workhorse” variant, and that a higher-specification 3.0 litre model, complete with additional features, was also available. This distinction set the tone for my evaluation, focusing on the practical capabilities of this particular MU-X.

Overview

The Isuzu MU-X, a utility vehicle-based SUV, has steadily evolved since its initial development. First introduced in 2013, it was designed to offer a robust, body-on-frame alternative in the competitive SUV market, drawing heavily from the durable underpinnings of Isuzu’s D-Max pick-up truck. We are now in the second generation of the MU-X, which was launched globally in 2020/2021, featuring a more refined design and improved capabilities. This iteration continues Isuzu’s tradition of building practical and dependable vehicles. Classified as a PPV (Pick-up Passenger Vehicle), it offers the ruggedness of a commercial vehicle chassis combined with the comforts expected of a family SUV.

Exterior Design

Approaching the 2025 Isuzu MU-X, its imposing stature is immediately apparent. The front fascia presents a bold, assertive design, dominated by a large grille flanked by contemporary headlight units that incorporate integrated daytime running lights.

These elements collectively provide a purposeful expression. Along the body panels, distinct character lines add definition and a sense of athleticism, guiding the eye towards the rear, which maintains a clean, upright stance, signalling its practical intent. The 17-inch aluminium rims offer a balanced aesthetic against the vehicle’s large profile, while the inclusion of side steps is a practical addition, particularly given the MU-X’s elevated ride height, making entry and exit more convenient.

Compared to other vehicles in its category, such as the Toyota Fortuner, the MU-X shares a similar robust body-on-frame construction. Both are designed to handle challenging terrains while offering multi-passenger capability, standing out from more car-like crossover SUVs.

Interior Comfort and Features

Stepping inside the 1.9 litre MU-X, it is clear that this is indeed the “workhorse” version. The cabin is functional, prioritising durability and practicality over premium creature comforts. The seats are upholstered in a hard-wearing fabric, which suggests longevity and ease of maintenance. While this specific model may lack some of the advanced technological features found in the higher-spec variant, it compensates with fundamental strengths.

One notable practical aspect is the provision of roof-mounted air-conditioning vents, which ensures that cool air circulates effectively throughout the cabin, even to the third row of seats. Space is in abundance; both headroom and legroom are generous across all three rows, making it a genuinely comfortable vehicle for seven adults on longer journeys.

The cargo flexibility of the MU-X is a significant asset. With all three rows of seats in their upright position, there is 311 litres of cargo space available, sufficient for a moderate amount of luggage or groceries. For increased capacity, folding down the third row expands the space considerably to 1119 litres. When maximum cargo volume is required, both the second and third rows can be folded flat, liberating an expansive 2138 litres, transforming the MU-X into a highly capable load-carrier.

Driving Experience

This recent engagement marked my first opportunity to thoroughly evaluate an Isuzu, and I approached it with interest, having heard many commendations regarding the performance of their engines. The consensus often points to their torque delivery rather than outright speed, and this proved true for the 1.9-litre turbo engine. While it may not provide blistering acceleration, its significant torque output of 350 Nm, delivered efficiently, made light work of carrying loads. The engine felt notably unstressed, a clear indicator of its utility-focused engineering. For those desiring more power, the 3.0-litre engine in the higher-spec model boasts 190 hp and 450 Nm of torque, peaking between 1800-2800 RPM.

My driving route included a challenging uphill section, which the MU-X ascended admirably, maintaining momentum without strain, further reinforcing its reputation for pulling power. A particularly strong point of the MU-X’s driving dynamics is its suspension. Despite being built on the ladder-frame chassis of the D-Max pick-up, it genuinely doesn’t handle like one. The coil-over-spring suspension setup is remarkably adept at absorbing road imperfections. Even when encountering deep potholes, the impact was cushioned effectively, maintaining cabin composure. Furthermore, despite its relatively high centre of gravity, the body roll was well-controlled, instilling confidence when navigating bends.

The four-wheel-drive system is engaged via a rotary dial conveniently located below the gear selector. This provides straightforward access to various drive options, typically including 2H (two-wheel drive high range) for normal road driving, 4H (four-wheel drive high range) for slippery conditions, and 4L (four-wheel drive low range) for more demanding off-road terrain, offering versatile capability.

Specifications:

Price of Tested Model (1.9L): $8.9 million

Price of 3.0L Version: $10.7 million

Body Type: PPV (Pick-up Passenger Vehicle)

Engine: 1.9L Turbo Diesel (4-cylinder)

Horsepower (1.9L): 150 hp

Torque (1.9L): 350 Nm

Transmission: 4WD (part-time, via dial)

Fuel Tank Capacity: 80 litres

Fuel Consumption (claimed): 7.9 km/litre

Competition: Toyota Fortuner, Ford Everest and the Mitsubishi Montero Sport.

Vehicle courtesy of Vehicles & Supplies Ltd, 876-929-9190 or WhatsApp at 876-224-9249.