MZANSI’S SUV market got better when Isuzu Motors South Africa added the good looking mu-X.
This seven-seater was launched under the newly established Isuzu Motors South Africa, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Isuzu Motors Limited of Japan.
The SUV launch in the north of Joburg, had motoring journalists drive to the small town of Clarens, in the Free State and back.
And SunWheels learnt that the mu-X is far from a normal SUV!
Not every SUV can be pushed to 200km/h but still let you feel very much in control.
Grant McCleery from Driving Dynamics organised an open route away from the N3, which is full of speed traps and does not allow cars to be tested.
While the mu-X may resemble the Chevrolet TrailBlazer it is a very different animal. It is based on the Isuzu’s proud KB – one of South Africa’s favourite pick-ups for over 40 years.
Dominic Rimmer, from Isuzu’s executive technical services, said the mu-X is an important milestone for Isuzu.
“Building on Isuzu’s long-standing brand’s of proven reliability and the trusted capabilities of the KB bakkie, the mu-X introduces a whole new level of practicality, comfort and convenience that is ideally suited to the adventurous lifestyle nature of South African customers.”
The success this bakkie received in other markets including Thailand, Australia and the Philippines is what the manufacturer hopes Mzansi buyers will find.
The mu-X is powered by Isuzu’s proven 3.0-litre four-cylinder intercooled turbodiesel diesel engine which is fitted with a six-speed automatic gearbox that has a sequential sport mode.
The impressive three-ton towing capacity makes it a great choice for towing trailers or caravans.
Two versions are currently available with the choice of 4X2 or 4X4 drives.
The four-wheel drive version relies on Isuzu’s easy to use terrain command 4x4 drive system that has electronically-selected, high-range two and four-wheel drive modes or a low-range 4x4 mode for more challenging off-road driving.
Aluminium side-steps, 18-inch alloy wheels, privacy glass and the combination of LED rear lamps further improve the mu-X’s appearance.
You will also love the multifunction infotainment system is a stand-out feature of the mu-X – it boasts a nine-inch touchscreen colour display.
Front and rear USB slots are provided, in conjunction with an auxiliary iPod input and HDMI connections.
The Isuzu mu-X comes standard with Isuzu’s complete care. Complete care is a five-year/120 000km bumper-to-bumper warranty with the Isuzu roadside assistance plan that includes a five-year/unlimited kilometre anti-corrosion warranty, and a five-year/90 000km service plan.
PRICING
- Isuzu mu-X 3,0 4X2 six-speed automatic – R568 000
- Isuzu mu-X 3,0 4X4 six-speed automatic – R629 100
