New Isuzu MU-X SUV revealed

The new Isuzu MU-X has been unveiled in Thailand where it will go on sale initially, along with a few ASEAN markets.

• All-new MU-X is based on the latest-gen D-MAX pickup
• Gets two diesel engine options
• India yet to get BS6 compliant MU-X

2021 Isuzu MU-X: Exterior styling

The new-gen MU-X is based on the new D-Max pickup truck that made its world premiere more than a year ago. Just like its predecessor, the latest MU-X continues with the ladder frame construction and despite looking quite familiar, it comes with an all-new body and interior bits. It gets subtle cuts and creases upfront with a large grille flanked by slimmer headlamps, equipped with LED daytime running lights. On the side, the glasshouse now has a more rounded look and it does not get wraparound windows at the back, like the outgoing model. The new MU-X gets a horizontally positioned tail lamp design that looks similar, in shape, to the one Mercedes-Benz GLE has. The new MU-X continues to be a seven-seat SUV and is 25mm longer, 10mm wider and 35mm taller than its predecessor. It also has a 10mm longer wheelbase than the previous gen SUV. 

2021 Isuzu MU-X: Interior

The new MU-X’s cabin looks quite similar to the latest D-Max pickup sold overseas, however, there are some changes where the four-wheel drive selector has been relocated and an electronic parking brake replaces the cable operated unit. The SUV gets better quality materials and also gets roof-mounted AC vents for the third row.

2021 Isuzu MU-X: Features and equipment

The MU-X gets a long list of equipment depending on variants on offer. Wheel sizes range from 17-20 inches. It also gets LED projector headlamps, a power tailgate, a choice of a seven or nine-inch touchscreen infotainment system,  a 4.2-inch TFT multi-info display, keyless entry and start and dual-zone climate control with PM2.5 filter and ambient lighting. It also gets multiple USB charging ports for the second and third row passengers.

2021 Isuzu MU-X: Safety 

The new MU-X gets six-airbags, ESC, ABS, EBD, brake and hill assist, HDC and traction control. Higher variants also get a blind spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, forward collision warning system as well as autonomous emergency braking tech. Additionally, lane departure warning and automatic high beam assist are also on offer.

2021 Isuzu MU-X: Engine options

Two diesel engines are on offer on the new MU-X. The range starts with a 150hp 1.9-liter powerplant while there is also a 3.0-liter 190hp diesel on offer. Gearbox choices include a six-speed manual or a six-speed torque convertor automatic. Four-wheel drive is available only on the higher-spec 3.0-liter version.

2021 Isuzu MU-X: India launch

Prior to the introduction of BS6 norms earlier this year, Isuzu sold the current-gen D-Max V-Cross and the MU-X in India along with its commercial vehicle range. The company did not introduce any BS6 compliant product, until recently, when its commercial vehicle range saw a market re-introduction with BS6 compliant engines.  Sources tell us that the current-gen V-Cross will make a comeback in India with a BS6 engine in the near future, however, there is no news of the MU-X making a come-back anytime soon.