THE 2018 Isuzu MU-X adds minor interior comforts to please suburban adventure-philes, while staying true to its go-anywhere, tow-anything DNA.

WHAT IS IT?

The MU-X is Isuzu’s large SUV. It shares its drivetrain and platform underpinnings with the D-Max ute, though MU-X is aimed squarely at the adventurous family unit.

WHY WE’RE TESTING IT

MAIN RIVALS

Ford Everest, Toyota Fortuner, Holden Trailblazer, Toyota LandCruiser, Mitsubishi Pajero

THE WHEELS VERDICT

Isuzu’s minor 2018 MU-X update successfully increases cabin appeal, though it doesn’t do enough to drastically move it up the pecking order compared to rivals. However, the large SUV retains its alluring pricing, competent drivetrain, impressive off-road and towing capabilities, and family focused interior design.

PLUS: Towing ability, off-road prowess, family friendly interior features MINUS: Lacks outright grunt of rivals, active safety absent, ageing infotainment, truck-like ride

THE WHEELS REVIEW

ISUZU’S second model after the popular D-Max ute has been updated for 2018, but there is a baby elephant in the room. While its tray-back sibling receives a significant and much-needed suspension change for 2018, the MU-X has been treated to, well, not much really.

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The MU-X receives no mechanical updates, no exterior tweaks (save two new colour choices), and only minor interior enhancements, including a greater use of soft-touch plastics and more attractive and comfortable perforated leather upholstery throughout. There are now dual USB ports in the first and second rows, while the flagship LS-T gains a DVD player and screen for rear occupants.

Each MU-X trim grade (LS-M, LS-U, and LS-T) is available in either 4×4 or 4×2 configuration, and all are equipped with third row seating for a total of seven. The third row is roomy as well, with enough space for an adult on a short trip.

The oiler comes from Isuzu’s commercial truck range, has 130kW and 430Nm on tap, and is a large part of the MU-X’s effectiveness. It lacks bragging rights in terms of outright grunt compared to rivals, but is by no means inadequate. A six-speed automatic transmission is available in all models. A six-speed manual is also offered for LS-M and mid-spec LS-U trim levels in 4×4 configuration.

Peak torque is available from 2000rpm and that low down strength makes the MU-X a capable tow vehicle, which we tested on an undulating road course with a 1900kg caravan hitched to the back. Ample twist from the engine means the auto ‘box doesn’t hunt excessively under acceleration for shorter ratios, and keeps the engine feeling under-stressed. Trailer sway control, added with the 2018 update, offers further peace of mind when towing.

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MU-X rides on different suspension to its ute sibling, with coils at the rear replacing the D-Max’s leaf springs. This affords the SUV a ride that’s better suited to carrying passengers than hauling a big payload. It isn’t quite as refined or comfortable as SUVs built on a uni-body chassis, but it does well to support the car’s weight and remain composed on the road while still being tough enough to sustain that mega towing capacity.

The cabin offers decent legroom and ample storage, though a lack of active safety features in the MY18 update is disappointing, especially for such a family focused car. Similarly, the omission of smartphone mirroring in the form of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto ages the MU-X’s digital skillset compared to rivals. This segment is not immune to increasing consumer demand for high-tech safety and infotainment.

SPECS Model: 2018 Isuzu MU-X LS-T 4×4 Engine: 2999cc four-cylinder, dohc, 16v, turbo-diesel Max power: 130kW @ 3600rpm Max torque: 430Nm @ 2000rpm Transmission: Six-speed automatic Weight: 2157kg 0-100km/h: 11.0sec (estimated) Fuel economy: 7.9L/100km Price: $56,200