Isuzu MU-X

The Isuzu MU-X is a ladder-frame SUV wagon closely related to the D-Max ute, combining a diesel powertrain with the added comfort and seating flexibility expected of a passenger vehicle. Its design is aimed at buyers who need more than a conventional urban SUV can offer, with available four-wheel drive, substantial ground clearance and a braked towing capacity of up to 3500kg.

The range includes two four-cylinder turbo-diesel engines. The 2.2-litre produces 120kW and 400Nm and is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, while the 3.0-litre develops 140kW and 450Nm with a six-speed automatic. The smaller engine is claimed to use 6.7L/100km on a combined cycle, while the 3.0-litre is listed at 7.6L/100km. Both versions use an 80-litre fuel tank, with the stated calculated driving range varying according to engine choice.

Practicality is a key part of the MU-X formula. The seven-seat cabin uses a two-three-two layout, with a 60/40 split-fold second row and a 50/50 split-fold third row. Cargo capacity is 311 litres with all seats occupied, increasing to 1119 litres with the third row folded and 2138 litres when the second and third rows are stowed. That makes the vehicle adaptable for everyday passenger duties as well as larger loads, although the available luggage space is naturally reduced when all three rows are in use.

Inside, the MU-X has a redesigned steering wheel and reprofiled dashboard. Equipment and trim vary across the range, with cloth upholstery and carpet flooring on lower grades and leather-accented seats on higher specifications. The model is also available with an 8.0-inch touchscreen multimedia system featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, alongside a suite of driver-assistance technology.

Its exterior equipment includes bi-LED headlights, automatic high beam, rain-sensing wipers and 17-inch alloy wheels fitted with 255/65R17 all-terrain tyres on entry variants. The combination of all-terrain tyres, 230mm of ground clearance and available four-wheel drive supports the MU-X's off-road brief, while the wagon body and coil-sprung rear suspension are intended to provide a more composed road-going experience than a ute-based vehicle might suggest.

• Seven-seat SUV wagon with flexible folding rows
• 2.2-litre and 3.0-litre turbo-diesel engine options
• Rear-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive configurations available
• Up to 3500kg braked towing capacity
• Up to 2138 litres of cargo capacity with the rear rows folded

Other highlights include Transmission: Six-speed automatic or eight-speed automatic; Drive train: Rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive; Engine or motor: 2.2-litre or 3.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel.