Isuzu MU-X: Stylish but still rugged

Isuzu has built another solid vehicle, capable and comfortable in any setting, but this time it stands out

- Eyaaz Matwadia

Isuzu has refreshed its MU-X and, while most of the changes to the previous model released in 2017 are cosmetic, they are also most welcome.

The Mail & Guardian had the top-of-the-range MU-X Onyx XT 4x4 A/T for a week and tested it on both tarred roads and a tricky 15km gravel and sand road.

But we'll get to that later. For now, I want to focus on the styling that Isuzu has incorporated into its flagship SUV.

Isuzus are always built tough and durable but no one has ever exclaimed: “Did you see that Isuzu?”

This is where I feel the manufacturer has come a long way with the new MU-X.

The bold, striking exterior begins with a new bumper, a large grille, a redesigned Isuzu badge and a very sharp and aggressive headlamp cluster. This gives the front of the vehicle a futuristic look.

The back keeps the style going with an updated bumper, the introduction of a mid-level spoiler and new badging, which gives it a sporty edge.

The MU-X Onyx XT comes with a range of distinctive design elements, including a gloss-black grille finish, metallic light magnetite bumper, gloss-black roof rails and Onyx-black side mirrors. The XT badging on the grille and bodywork further enhance the vehicle's striking appearance.

The black 20-inch alloy wheels on the MU-X Onyx A/T topped it all off. However, other variants come with white 18-inch alloys that don't make the vehicle stand out quite as much.

On the exterior, it's as if Isuzu has beefed up the car but refined it at the same time.

The interior

The interior features comfortable leather seats and a fine dashboard which has a nine-inch infotainment system in the middle that supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The screen is not the most responsive but it does do exactly what it's supposed to.