Indelible Isuzu

Updates to the Isuzu MU-X make a good thing even better.

- Matt Raudonikis

ISUZU’S MU-X has been a favourite wagon among four-wheel drive enthusiasts, thanks to its durability and value for money. Isuzu Ute Australia (IUA) has built on these strengths for the 2017 model updates, adding a better feeling interior, a choice of six-speed transmissions, and performance upgrades.

The MU-X has received two updates for 2017. The first came back in February, with tweaks to the 3.0-litre diesel engine (which it shares with the D-MAX ute) to increase torque to 430Nm, the addition of a new six-speed auto and manual transmission, and Euro 5 compliancy. The latest update brings new front- and rear-end styling, softer interior touch points, and reduced engine noise transmission to the redesigned cabin.

The 3.0-litre diesel engine is the only choice in both IUA vehicles, and in these days of shrinking capacities it’s on the larger side of engines in this class. That’s not a bad thing. The unfussed and lazy way it gets the job done means this capacity has won over many Isuzu owners. Don’t think lazy is a negative, either, as the smaller engines in most competitor vehicles get busy at highway speed and don’t conquer long distances in the relaxed manner the Isuzu mill does.