Truck Tough

SUBTLE CHANGES MARK THE ARRIVAL OF ISUZU’S 2019 D-MAX AND MU-X.

- Tristan Tancredi

I SUZU Ute Australia (IUA) has subtly refreshed its D-Max and MU-X line-ups for MY19, but the trusty workhorses remain mostly unchanged bar for a few tech and cosmetic tweaks. Surprisingly, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto remains absent from the list of features, as does Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), with the most notable revision a recalibration of the MU-X’s hydraulic steering rack, providing the seven-seater with more refined and tactile steering feedback.

A brief spurt at the Australian Automotive Research Centre (AARC) in Anglesea, Victoria – a purpose-built off-road circuit – and the surrounding roads, revealed a tighter feel to steering input, especially at lower speeds. The reliable 4JJ1 3.0-liter turbo diesel remains mated to an Aisin six-speed automatic, giving the MU-X an ample 130kW and 430Nm, which never felt wanting on AARC’s subdued off-road tracks. The range-topping LS-T’s approach (24°), departure (25.1°) and ramp over (19.5°) angles also coasted over the makeshift off-road obstacle course.