2019 Isuzu D-Max and MU-X updates and prices

ISUZU Ute Australia (IUA) has subtly refreshed its Isuzu D-Max and MU-X line-ups for MY19, but the trusty steeds 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).

The most notable revision, however, is a recalibration of the MU-X’s hydraulic steering rack, providing the seven-seater with more refined and tactile steering feedback.

“Recalibrating the MU-X steering to require lighter inputs while manoeuvring at low speeds, whilst retaining the sturdy firm feedback at medium to high speeds has given the MU-X the best of both worlds,” Isuzu UTE Australia’s Managing Director, Hiroyasu Sato, said.

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.

Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) are now optional extras available across the MU-X range, and the systems can be retrofitted to MY17 and MY18 MU-X models. BSM with RCTA will set you back $955 (RRP).

Another optional extra is Front Park Assist ($545 RRP), which can also be retrofitted to MY17-onwards MU-X models, as well as MY17-onwards D-Max LS-M, LS-U and LS-T models.

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Another tweak to the MU-X range includes new-look 18-inch gloss black aluminium wheels (LS-U and LS-T models) wrapped in 255/60R18 Bridgestone Dueler Highway Terrain tyres. The front grille is bordered by chrome and gloss black on LS-U and LS-T models (it’s grey and black for the LS-M).

Key changes for IUA’s venerable D-Max are limited to cosmetics, though the LS-U and LS-T do receive Fibre-Reinforced Polymer (FRP) sidesteps bolted on with steel brackets. The LS-T is the focus of most MY19 changes, with the range-topper the only model to get 18-inch matte black aluminium wheels wrapped in 255/60R18 Toyo Open Country Highway Terrain rubber. Matte black roof rails and a matte black sports bar complement the matching wheels.

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The rest of the range doesn’t miss out on some tweaks, though, with the LS-M and LS-U variants receiving a splattering of black to the bodywork, as well as matte black treatment to the radiator air intake and B-pillars.

At launch IUA also unveiled its new six-year/150,000km warranty, aligning it closer to recent moves made by its competition.

The new range is on sale now nationally, with 4x4 RRP (listed below) starting from $38,200 (MY19 D-Max) and $50,200 (MY19 MU-X).