The refreshed 2017 Isuzu MU-X gets improved engine, interior comfort and ride… and it’s being launched in Australia first.

ISUZU HAS launched its refreshed MU-X in Australia ahead of any other market, because of the importance the brand places on the fact Australia is its largest export market for MU-X and D-MAX. The D-MAX was also recently refreshed and we drove it at its local launch; you can read that review HERE.

The outgoing MU-X has been here since 2008 and while this new model isn’t all-new, it does get enough tweaks to keep it a strong seller and one that’s likely to grow in the large SUV segment – it’s currently in sixth spot.

On the outside, its updated front facia has a more aggressive and contemporary headlight design, and those headlights are also now Bi-LED, which add up to 50m extra throw at night – that makes the refreshed MU-X and Mitsubishi Pajero Sport the only vehicles in their class to offer Bi-LEDs.

At the back, the MU-X has received some minor tweaks too, and all models receive 18-inch alloys except the base model which runs on 16-inch. All models are available in a new colour, called ‘Havana Brown’.

The engine has been updated to meet Euro5 emissions standards, which according to Isuzu, required a comprehensive overhaul of the previous engine. The changes have included new pistons, turbocharger, sensors and injectors. Power has remained at 130kW, however, torque has increased by 50Nm to 430Nm total, with a full 380Nm available between 1700-3500rpm.

The increased torque output has required a revised rear differential to be used which is stronger but retains the same ratios as before. There is still no locking rear differential but all models receive hill-descent control. Clearance remains at 230mm.

MU-X models are available in both 4×2 and 4×4 variation, and with either a six-speed automatic or six-speed manual. Fuel consumption with the new engine drops to 7.9L/100km.

Inside, the Thailand-produced MU-X has been improved with some new soft touch points on the (previously all hard-plastic) dash and door trims, along with new 7.0 (base model) and 8.0-inch infotainment screens with reversing camera and sat-nav.

Isuzu has also made improvements to NVH including increased sound insulation around the firewall, A-pillars and on the floor pan.

Pricing has also changed slightly, up around $1000, on average, for all models, but they do receive better gear such as larger alloys and better infotainment.

Available in a variety of driveline layouts, the entry-model LS-M receives 16-inch alloys and cloth interior trim while LS-U gets better interior refinement and larger 18-inch alloys while top-spec LS-T has the same alloys with softer leather-trim interior, electric seats, roof rails and keyless entry and start.

All Isuzu MU-X models get a five-year/130,000km warranty with roadside assist. Service intervals are 12 months/10,000km, which ever comes first, and Isuzu offers five-year/50,000km capped-price servicing.

2017 Isuzu MU-X – Pricing (+ORCs)

LS-M:

• 4×2 automatic – $42,800;
• 4×4 manual – $48,000; and
• 4×4 automatic – $50,100

LS-U:

• 4×2 automatic – $45,100;
• 4×4 manual – $50,300; and
• 4×4 automatic – $52,400.

LS-T:

• 4×2 automatic – $48,800; and
• 4×4 automatic – $56,100.