Isuzu MU-X

The Isuzu MU-X is a mid-size SUV produced by Isuzu. It is a body-on-frame SUV based on the D-Max pickup truck, and the successor to the MU-7.

Isuzu MU-X
Overview
ManufacturerIsuzu
Production2013–present
Body and chassis
ClassMid-size SUV
Body style5-door SUV
Layout
RelatedIsuzu D-Max
Chronology
PredecessorIsuzu MU-7
Isuzu Panther (Indonesia)[1]

The name "MU-X" stands for "Multi Utility – eXtreme".[2]

Predecessor: Isuzu MU-7 (510; 2004)
Isuzu MU-7 (510)
Overview
Also calledIsuzu Alterra (Philippines)
Production2004–2013
AssemblyThailand: Samut Prakan (Isuzu Motors Thailand)
Philippines: Biñan, Laguna (Isuzu Philippines)[3]
Body and chassis
Doors5
ChassisBody-on-frame
Powertrain
Engine
Transmission
Dimensions
Wheelbase3,050 mm (120.1 in)
Length4,955 mm (195.1 in)
Width1,800 mm (70.9 in)
Height1,805 mm (71.1 in)
Chronology
PredecessorIsuzu Wizard
SuccessorIsuzu MU-X
Isuzu MU-7 (pre-facelift)
Isuzu MU-7 (facelift)

The predecessor to the MU-X, the Isuzu MU-7 is a D-Max-based SUV with a three-row seating arrangement. The MU-7 was released in Thailand in November 2004, being advertised as a "Sport Utility Wagon".[4] The MU-7 has the same front fascia and chassis as the D-Max but has a covered rear end instead of a truck bed. Unlike the MU-X, the MU-7 retains the same wheelbase as the D-Max. It was only available in some markets such as Thailand, the Philippines and India. In the Philippines, this model is called the Isuzu Alterra.

The MU-7 was sold with either rear-wheel drive or a 4x4 drivetrain. One engine, the 3.0 L 4JJ1-TC, was available. The car's "MOVE" suspension consists of torsion bar-sprung double wishbones on the front axle and leaf springs on the rear.

In the late third quarter of 2006, the MU-7 drivetrain options were named the Primo (4x2) and Activo (4x4). With a new 3.0 4JJ1-TCX engine option, new transmissions were implemented as well: a five-speed manual transmission and a MaxMatic-III automatic transmission. Also new was the interior, incorporating a console with wood trim and new seat upholstery.

As with the Gold Series trim of the D-Max, both the MU-7 Primo Gold Series and Activo Gold Series also received gold Isuzu badges in 3 locations. All Gold Series models also came equipped with a new navigation entertainment system incorporating a new reverse assist, all optional from early 2008. The Primo and Activo received a Wide Vision blind-spot rear view mirror. Also added was a lower-cost 4x2 model, the S with a 146 PS (107 kW) 3.0-litre engine, which was priced below the Primo.

MU-7 Platinum models were sold in Thailand from 1 November 2008, with tweaked front, fender, and side trim and platinum-painted engines. The MOVE suspension for Activo and Primo models was also retooled. The S model also received an automatic transmission as optional.

MU-7 Super Platinum models were introduced in the same month as the D-Max. Exterior changes include a new front bumper, new alloy wheels (except on the S), and newer blind spot rear view mirrors. Models with the 3.0 VGS Turbo engine also received light silver trim on the hood scoop.

In April 2011, the MU-7 Choiz was revealed at the Bangkok Motor Show, with new alloy wheels and small changes to the interior. In December 2011, the Choiz was facelifted with new alloy wheels. It was available in 4WD, 2WD 3000 VGS Turbo and 2WD 3000 DDi configurations.

First generation (RF; 2013)
First generation (RF)
Overview
Production2013–2021
Assembly
Body and chassis
Doors5
Related
Powertrain
Engine
Transmission
  • 5-speed manual
  • 5-speed Aisin TB-50LS automatic
  • 6-speed manual
  • 6-speed Aisin AWE6B45 II automatic
Dimensions
Wheelbase2,845 mm (112.0 in)
Length4,825 mm (190.0 in)
Width1,860 mm (73.2 in)
Height1,840 mm (72.4 in)
Chronology
PredecessorIsuzu MU-7
Rear view (pre-facelift)

The MU-X had its world premiere in Thailand on 31 October 2013 and was sold from 6 November 2013. The MU-X is a product from the collaboration between General Motors and Isuzu. As the result, it shared its platform with the Chevrolet Trailblazer and Holden Colorado. Due to an agreement with GM, the Trailblazer was released prior to the MU-X.

In Australia, it was launched in December 2013. To date, the MU-X has been sold only in Thailand, Australia, Paraguay, Indonesia, Philippines, Malaysia, Brunei (until 2016), Vietnam, China and India. Isuzu Motors has plans to market it overseas in 50 countries. In December 2013, the MU-X was showcased at the 2013 Tokyo Motor Show, but is not sold in Japan.

Thailand

In Thailand, the MU-X was available in three trim levels, being: Base (CD), Standard (DVD) and High (DVD Navi).

CD and DVD-trim levels are available with the 2.5-litre engine. These trims are called the 2.5 VGS CD and 2.5 VGS DVD respectively. when equipped with the 5-speed automatic (or 5-speed manual, which is 4x2 only). The DVD Navi trim level is available with both the 2.5- and 3.0-litre engines, with the 2.5-litre engine, it is called 2.5 VGS DVD Navi, In 3.0-litre engine with automatic transmission, it is badged as 3.0 VGS DVD Navi.

The 4x4 (which is 5-speed automatic only) is solely available in the 3.0 VGS DVD Navi trim level.[5]

Philippines

On 9 September 2014, Isuzu Philippines launched the MU-X to retire the Alterra. It was available in 3 trim levels, LS, LS-M and LS-A. However, only the 2.5-litre engine has been made available due to fuel quality concerns. The two lower-end variants were only available in 2WD with a manual transmission, while the higher-end LS-A can be had in 2WD or 4WD with Terrain Command.[6]

In October 2015, Isuzu Philippines Corporation introduced the 3.0-litre 4JJ1-TC engine with an output of 163 PS (120 kW; 161 hp) and 380 N⋅m (280 lbf⋅ft) of torque. This engine differs from the global 3.0-litre engine as it is still Euro II-compliant and produces less power than the 4JJ1-TCX. Apart from the new engine, a chrome exhaust tip, 3.0 TD chrome emblem, and daytime running lights are fitted as standard on the 3.0 models to differentiate them from the 2.5 models.[7]

In September 2017, as part of the 20th anniversary of Isuzu Philippines, the heavily revised Isuzu MU-X debuted in the Philippines. The Philippine-spec Isuzu MU-X gets similar features as the Thai-spec model. It gets the newer Euro IV-compliant 3.0-litre 4JJ1-TCX with Blue Power. This new engine also powers the 2018 D-Max.[8]

China

In China, the MU-X was launched in May 2015 and was produced by Jiangxi Isuzu Motors.[9]

Facelift
2017 facelift

On 14 February 2017, the facelifted MU-X was revealed in a teaser video and website.[10] It debuted on 4 March 2017 prior to the Bangkok International Motor Show. This facelift including integrated LED front and tail lights, improved interior quality with the addition of soft material, a two-tone interior, and improved NVH. Engines remained the same as the outgoing model.

Engines
Diesel engines
Model Code Engine Power Torque Transmissions Year
1.9 DDi Blue Power RZ4E-TC 1,898 cc common rail injection turbodiesel I4 150 PS (110 kW; 148 hp)
@ 3,600 rpm		 350 N⋅m (36 kg⋅m; 258 lb⋅ft)
@ 1,800–2,600 rpm		 6-speed manual
6-speed automatic		 2016–present
2.5 DDi VGS 4JK1-TCX 2,499 cc common rail injection turbodiesel I4 136 PS (100 kW; 134 hp)
@ 3,400 rpm		 320 N⋅m (33 kg⋅m; 236 lb⋅ft)
@ 1,800–2,800 rpm		 5-speed manual
5-speed automatic
6-speed automatic		 2013–present
3.0 DDi VGS 4JJ1-TCX 2,999 cc common rail injection
turbodiesel I4		 163 PS (120 kW; 161 hp)
@ 3,550 rpm		 380 N⋅m (39 kg⋅m; 280 lb⋅ft)
@ 1,800–2,800 rpm		 5-speed manual
5-speed automatic
6-speed automatic		 2013–present
177 PS (130 kW; 175 hp)
@ 3,550 rpm		 380 N⋅m (39 kg⋅m; 280 lb⋅ft)
@ 1,800–2,800 rpm
177 PS (130 kW; 175 hp)
@ 3,550 rpm		 430 N⋅m (44 kg⋅m; 317 lb⋅ft)
@ 2,000 rpm

Second generation (RJ; 2020)
Second generation (RJ)
Overview
Production2020–present
Assembly
DesignerHiroshi Sasajima, Tomonobu Nishikawa, Yukinari Kato, Motoyoshi Tono, Shigeya Takahashi, Kunio Yoshida, and Atsushi Serizawa[11]
Body and chassis
PlatformIsuzu Symmetric Mobility Platform
Doors5
Related
Powertrain
Engine
Transmission
Dimensions
Wheelbase2,855 mm (112.4 in)
Length4,850 mm (190.9 in)
Width1,870 mm (73.6 in)
Height1,875 mm (73.8 in)
Curb weight1,820–1,955 kg (4,012–4,310 lb)
Rear
Interior

The second-generation MU-X was revealed on 28 October 2020 in Thailand.[12][13] It shares the same platform with the third generation D-Max, which in turn is also closely related to the third-generation Mazda BT-50.

Thailand

The MU-X in Thailand is offered with two engine options, a 1.9-litre turbodiesel and a 3.0-litre turbodiesel. The 1.9-litre is used for four variants, namely the 1.9 Active, 1.9 Luxury, 1.9 Elegance and 1.9 Ultimate, while the 4JJ3-TCX engine is exclusive to the 3.0 Elegance, 3.0 Ultimate and 3.0 Ultimate 4WD.[14] The 3.0-litre engine received a power bump compared to the previous generation, from 177 PS (130 kW; 175 hp) to 190 PS (140 kW; 187 hp).

Australia

The MU-X was launched in Australia on 30 July 2021. It is available in three grades: LS-M, LS-U, and the top-of-the-range LS-T.[15]

Philippines

The second generation MU-X was launched in the Philippines on 22 September 2021. It is offered in five grades: LS 4x2 RZ4E A/T, LS-A 4x2 RZ4E M/T, LS-A 4x2 3.0 A/T, LS-E 4x2 3.0 A/T, and LS-E 4x4 3.0 A/T.[16][17]

South Africa

The second generation MU-X was launched in South Africa on 15 November 2021. It is offered in four grade levels; LS 4x2, LS 4x4, LSE 4x2, and ONYX 4x4. All models are powered by the same 3.0-litre engine.[18]

Indonesia

The second-generation MU-X was launched in Indonesia during GIIAS 2021. It is only offered in one configuration, with a 1.9-litre engine, an automatic transmission, and 4x4.[19]

Engines
Diesel engines
Model Code Engine Power Torque Transmissions
1.9 DDi Blue Power RZ4E-TC GEN2 1,898 cc common rail injection turbodiesel I4 150 PS (110 kW; 148 hp)
@ 3,600 rpm		 350 N⋅m (36 kg⋅m; 258 lb⋅ft)
@ 1,800–2,600 rpm		 6-speed manual (except Thailand)
6-speed automatic
3.0 DDi VGS 4JJ3-TCX 2,999 cc common rail injection
turbodiesel I4		 190 PS (140 kW; 187 hp)
@ 3,600 rpm		 450 N⋅m (46 kg⋅m; 332 lb⋅ft)
@ 1,600–2,600 rpm		 6-speed automatic

Sales
Year Thailand Australia Philippines
2014 19,040[20] 4,625[21]
2015 12,524[22] 6,344[23]
2016 8,855[24] 7,018[25]
2017 12,371[26] 8,087[27] 13,157[28]
2018 12,554 9,090[29]
2019 9,477[30] 8,419[31]
2020 8,139[32] 7,049[33]
2021 15,434[34] 10,618[35] 1,083[36]

References
  1. "Hanya Satu Varian, All New mu-X Resmi Dijual di Indonesia" (in Indonesian). Tagar.id. 27 November 2021. Retrieved 21 December 2021.
  2. "Isuzu Mu-X: Un-mysterious but lots of multi". 16 June 2023.
  3. "Isuzu. Isuzu in the Philippines". Car-cat.com. Archived from the original on 10 September 2011. Retrieved 11 July 2021.
  4. "New Sport-Utility Wagon Debuts in Thailand". Isuzu Motors. 21 December 2004. Archived from the original on 22 May 2011.
  5. "อีซูซุประเทศไทย Isuzu Thailand Official" (PDF).
  6. "Better late than never: Isuzu PH finally replaces Alterra with MU-X". topgear.com.ph.
  7. "Isuzu PH launches 3.0-liter variants for D-MAX and Mu-X - Auto Industry News". autoindustriya.com. 22 October 2015.
  8. "2018 Isuzu Mu-X updated, gets new Blue Power diesel engine - Auto Industry News". autoindustriya.com. 27 September 2017.
  9. "【图】预售15万起 江西五十铃MU-X明年5月上市_汽车之家". www.autohome.com.cn.
  10. "ISUZU MU-X". isuzumu-x.net. Retrieved 15 February 2017.
  11. "Design Inquiry". J-PlatPat. Retrieved 2021-09-23.
  12. "2021 Isuzu MU-X set for reveal on October 28". carexpert.com.au. 15 October 2020. Retrieved 15 October 2020.
  13. "ราคาอย่างเป็นทางการ All NEW Isuzu MU-X : 1,109,000 - 1,579,000 บาท | ดีเซล 1.9 TURBO - 3.0 TURBO". HeadLight Magazine (in Thai). 2020-10-28. Retrieved 2020-10-28.
  14. "2020 Isuzu MU-X debuts - seven-seat SUV launched in Thailand with 1.9L and 3.0L turbodiesel engines, AEB - paultan.org". Paul Tan's Automotive News. 2020-10-28. Retrieved 2020-10-28.
  15. "How much 2022 Isuzu MU-X stock is available?". carexpert.com.au. 29 July 2021. Retrieved 22 September 2021.
  16. "2022 Isuzu mu-X: Specs, Features, Prices. Here Is Everything You Need To Know (w/ Specs)". CarGuide.PH. 22 September 2021.
  17. De Guzman, Marcus (22 September 2021). "Prices Variants Specs: 2022 Isuzu mu-X launched in PH". AutoIndustriya.com.
  18. "New Isuzu MU-X touches down in SA". Business Live. 18 November 2021. Retrieved 22 December 2021.
  19. Pradana, Muhammad Rizqi (2021-11-19). Zulfikar, Muhammad Ermiel (ed.). "Modal Mesin Diesel 1.900 Cc, Isuzu Mu-X Punya Kelebihan Ini Dari Pajero Sport GLX" [Diesel Engine Capital 1,900 Cc, Isuzu Mu-X Has These Advantages From Pajero Sport GLX]. OtomotifNet (in Indonesian). Indonesia: Kompas Gramedia. Retrieved 2022-10-26.
  20. "Thailand cars sales report 2014". HeadlightMag.com. Thailand. February 2015. Retrieved 24 October 2018.
  21. "Isuzu UTE Australia surpasses 100,000 cumulative sales of its D-MAX and MU-X". May 2017.
  22. "Thailand cars sales report 2015". HeadlightMag.com. Thailand. 10 June 2016. Retrieved 24 October 2018.
  23. "Isuzu UTE Australia surpasses 100,000 cumulative sales of its D-MAX and MU-X". May 2017.
  24. "Thailand cars sales report 2016". HeadlightMag.com. Thailand. 26 January 2017. Retrieved 24 October 2018.
  25. "Isuzu UTE Australia surpasses 100,000 cumulative sales of its D-MAX and MU-X". May 2017.
  26. "Thailand cars sales report 2017". HeadlightMag.com. Thailand. 29 January 2018. Retrieved 24 October 2018.
  27. "MU-X Scores Second Place in 2018 4x4 Australia's 4x4 of the Year Award".
  28. Andres, Anton (25 January 2018). "Philippines' 10 Best Selling Cars in 2017". AutoIndustriya.com. Retrieved 25 January 2022.
  29. "Isuzu UTE Surpasses Sales Records with 10th Consecutive Year of Growth".
  30. "Thailand cars sales report 2019". HeadlightMag.com. Thailand. 23 January 2020. Retrieved 23 January 2020.
  31. "Isuzu MU-X Outsells Direct Rivals Again | Drive Car News".
  32. "Sales Report: PPV sales in 2020: Toyota Fortuner, one standing champion, 19,742 units, 44.3% market share". Headlight Magazine (in Thai). Thailand. 2021-01-26. Retrieved 2021-01-26.
  33. "Top 100 new cars sold in Australia in 2020".
  34. "ยอดจดทะเบียน PPV ในปี 2021 ยืนหนึ่งคือ Toyota Fortuner เล่นเอาอันดับที่เหลือมีเหนื่อย | AutoFun". AutoFun Thailand (in Thai). 2022-01-13. Retrieved 2022-01-18.
  35. Costello, Mike (6 January 2022). "VFACTS: Australia's 2021 new car sales detailed in full". CarExpert.
  36. Sarne, Vernon B. (24 January 2022). "Here is Isuzu PH's per-model sales breakdown in 2021". Visor.ph. Retrieved 25 January 2022.
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