Isuzu has officially announced the pricing and detailed specifications of the updated MU-X SUV in South Africa, following its initial approval back in February. The refreshed model lands locally after its debut in Thailand over a year ago, introducing a suite of interior and exterior enhancements designed to elevate its competitiveness against segment heavyweights like the Toyota Fortuner and Ford Everest.
Bolder Design, Premium Finishes
Still based on the second-generation platform, the facelifted MU-X sports a redesigned front end that includes a distinctive grille exclusive to the SUV, new LED headlamps, a reshaped bumper, and fresh fog light housings. Notably, the Isuzu badge has been repositioned beneath the bonnet line for a sleeker appearance. At the rear, the SUV adopts a new Audi Q8-inspired design with a reworked bumper and upgraded LED light clusters connected by a striking full-width light bar.
Seven exterior colours are now offered, including the returning Splash White, Mercury Silver, Onyx Black, Obsidian Grey, and Red Spinel. Two new shades—Eiger Grey and Biarritz Blue—round out the palette.
Introducing the New Flagship: Onyx XT
The updated MU-X lineup continues to offer six variants powered by a choice of two turbodiesel engines. Headlining the range is the new Onyx XT, which replaces the former Onyx and mirrors the RS variant available in Thailand. It features gloss black 20-inch alloy wheels, black roof rails, mirror caps, XT-specific badging, and added magnetite trim elements. Four exclusive colours are reserved for the Onyx XT: Onyx Black Mica, Eiger Grey Metallic, Mercury Silver Metallic, and Dolomite White Pearl.
Cabin Enhancements and Tech Upgrades
Inside, the MU-X mirrors the refinements introduced in the updated D-Max bakkie. All models now feature a new seven-inch TFT digital display within the instrument cluster and a nine-inch infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Physical controls make a comeback for key audio functions, replacing the previous generation’s touch-sensitive buttons.
Improved materials and build quality elevate the cabin’s feel, while seating for seven remains standard across the lineup.
Key Features by Trim Level
| Feature | LS | LSE | Onyx XT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Options | 1.9 DDI / 3.0 DDI | 3.0 DDI | 3.0 DDI (4×4) |
| Transmission | 6-speed automatic | 6-speed automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Infotainment System | 9” touchscreen + wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto | Same as LS | Same as LSE |
| Instrument Cluster | 7” TFT display | Same as LS | Same as LSE |
| Parking Assistance | Rear sensors + reverse camera | 360-degree camera | 360-degree camera |
| Headlights | Auto LED w/ levelling | Same as LS | Same as LSE |
| Mirrors | Electric | Heated + auto-folding | Same as LSE |
| Seating | 7-seater, partial leather | Same as LS | Red stitching, heated front seats |
| Audio System | 6 speakers | 8 speakers | 8 speakers |
| Climate Control | Manual | Dual-zone auto | Dual-zone auto |
| Cruise Control | Standard | Adaptive | Adaptive |
| Safety & Driver Aids | Basic ADAS, trailer sway, hill assist | Blind Spot, Rear Cross Traffic | Full ADAS suite incl. AEB, Lane Assist |
| Exterior Highlights | 18” alloys, standard styling | 18” alloys, premium styling | 20” gloss black alloys, XT styling |
| Roof Rails & Mirror Caps | Silver | Body-coloured | Gloss black |
| Remote Engine Start | No | Yes | Yes |
| Tailgate | Manual (1.9 LS), Electric (3.0 LS) | Electric | Electric |
Powertrain and Capability
Despite upgrades elsewhere, the MU-X retains its existing engine lineup:
- 1.9-litre RZ4E-TC: Produces 110 kW and 350 Nm, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive.
- 3.0-litre 4JJ3-TCX: Offers 140 kW and 450 Nm, also paired to a 6-speed auto, with both rear- and four-wheel-drive configurations available.
The new 2.2-litre engine and hybrid options available in some international markets are not included in the South African lineup.
The 4×4 variants come equipped with underbody protection, a class-leading wading depth of 800 mm, ground clearance of 235 mm, and approach, departure, and breakover angles of 30°, 26°, and 24° respectively. The towing capacity remains unchanged—2,100 kg for the 1.9-litre model and 3,500 kg for all 3.0-litre variants.
Pricing and Warranty
All MU-X models are backed by a 5-year/120,000 km warranty and a 5-year/90,000 km service plan. Here’s the full pricing breakdown:
- MU-X 1.9 DDI LS AT – R752,300
- MU-X 3.0 DDI LS AT – R852,600
- MU-X 3.0 DDI LS 4×4 AT – R939,500
- MU-X 3.0 DDI LSE AT – R886,700
- MU-X 3.0 DDI LSE 4×4 AT – R973,700
- MU-X 3.0 DDI Onyx XT 4×4 AT – R1,026,800
Related article: Facelifted Isuzu MU-X Confirmed for South Africa with Major Upgrades
