In our recent feature on our new Times of Eswatini YouTube segment, Driven by Times, I spent the day with Isuzu’s range-topping MU-X X-Terrain, putting it through a comprehensive review.
Today, I want to share exactly what you get with Isuzu’s flagship SUV and what stood out for me during my time behind the wheel.
Pricing and features
Let’s start with pricing and the line-up. Isuzu has made some noticeable changes to the MU-X range, with the biggest talking point being the new X-Terrain, which sits at the very top. The range still starts with the LS A/T, followed by the LSE A/T, and buyers can choose between a 1.9-litre or 3.0-litre turbo-diesel, in either 4×2 or 4×4. Prices now start from E757 475, while the MU-X X-Terrain 3.0L 4×4 I drove comes in at E1 031 975.01.
Design
The first thing that really struck me was the updated design. Isuzu has gone for a sportier, more aggressive and ultra-modern look and it works. The X-Terrain stands out with its black styling elements, shiny alloy wheels and a blacked-out grille with horizontal lines, a clear Isuzu signature. The new LED headlights, aerodynamic air curtains and reshaped bumper give the front a strong road presence. Around the back, there are new tail lights, a redesigned tailgate and updated badging that looks much sleeker than before.
Inside the cabin
Step inside and the upgrades continue. The cabin has been refreshed with a new design and more technology. I like the hexapod design theme, which you can see on the steering wheel and dashboard. The biggest highlights are the new digital instrument cluster and infotainment screen. This being the X-Terrain, you also get leather seats with neat stitching. Space is one of the MU-X’s strong points, there’s plenty of room up front and in the second row and while the third row isn’t meant for long trips, it adds useful flexibility for families.
Technology
One thing I appreciated is that Isuzu kept physical knobs for volume and tuning. That may sound small, but when you’re off-road or on uneven surfaces, it makes a big difference. You get Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, clear graphics on the digital dash and all the information you actually need. Overall, the tech upgrades make the MU-X feel far more modern.
Boot space
For a three-row SUV, practicality is solid. With all seats up, you still have about 300 litres of boot space. Drop the third row and that expands to over 1 100 litres, which is more than enough for family trips, groceries or weekend getaways.
Under the bonnet
Under the bonnet, Isuzu has stuck to what it knows best. You still get a choice of the 1.9-litre or 3.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel. The 1.9 produces 110kW and 350Nm, while the 3.0 delivers 140kW and 450Nm, both paired to a six-speed automatic. It may not be the punchiest engine in the segment, but with a 3.5-tonne towing capacity, it makes a lot of sense for families with caravans, boats or trailers.
Fuel efficiency
Fuel consumption remains unchanged, with the 1.9-litre rated at 7.4L/100km and the 3.0-litre at 8.3L/100km. Both models use an 80-litre fuel tank, giving the smaller engine a potential range of over 1 000km and even the bigger engine can comfortably do around 950km on a tank.
Safety
Safety has also been upgraded. There’s a new stereo camera mounted near the windscreen, which supports a comprehensive active safety suite. This includes improved intelligent cruise control, better lane-keeping assist, enhanced rear cross-traffic braking and a much-improved reversing camera. On higher-spec models like this X-Terrain, you also get a 360-degree surround camera, which is incredibly useful for parking and off-road driving.
Overall, my time with the Isuzu MU-X XT showed me that Isuzu hasn’t tried to reinvent the formula, instead, they’ve refined it. With bolder styling, better tech and improved safety, the MU-X remains a strong, family-friendly SUV that knows exactly who it’s built for.
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