Isuzu MU-X Onyx (2024) Living with it
We headed on a 1200-km road trip with the range-topping Isuzu MU-X to the Garden Route. With the family strapped in and the load bay packed to capacity, how did it fare?
The Isuzu MU-X is a 7-seat bakkie-based Adventure SUV, positioned as a rival to the popular Toyota Fortuner, the tech-laden Ford Everest and the long-serving Mitsubishi Pajero Sport.
While not the most mechanically sophisticated, for example, the Isuzu has traditional leaf springs at the back (unlike the Ford Everest, which has a multi-link coil rear suspension), part-time 4×4 (as opposed to an automatic 4WD, although that’s reserved for Ford’s 3.0TD variants) and a chugging diesel engine, the reality is that when they venture off the beaten track, 4×4 enthusiasts want ruggedness and simplicity.
Marketers will try to convince you a unibodied SUV powered by a state-of-the-art engine can conquer the bundu, but good luck; there are more reasons, other than price, for bakkie-based SUVs’ popularity.
See also: 2022 Isuzu MU-X Onyx review
The Isuzu MU-X is offered with a choice of 2 engines: a 1.9-litre- and a 3.0-litre 4-cylinder turbodiesel. The 3.0TD Onyx 4×4 produces 140 kW/450 Nm and drives the wheels via a 6-speed auto transmission.
There are genuine off-road credentials here: shift-on-the-fly 4-wheel drive, a low-range transfer case, 235 mm of ground clearance and a rear diff-lock. Even if you’re not planning on taking on anything more serious than your local gravel road, it’s reassuring to know you can tackle tougher routes if you need to.
KDF 956 EC (pictured above) was not a brand-new evaluation unit either – it had clocked up just over 30 000 km by the time it arrived at our office. Before joining our test fleet, this MU-X 3.0TD Onyx 4×4 had gallivanted through the sands of the Tankwa Karoo National Park (at the hands of another publication).
Usually, motoring journos assess cars with barely 1 000 km on their odometers, but we appreciated the opportunity to assess a “veteran” test unit because it gave us an indication of how well the MU-X can withstand hard use. If a car can endure motoring media scrutiny, it’s probably going to be brilliant for you.
Things we liked about the Isuzu MU-X Onyx
Powertrain and Economy
Most turbodiesel-powered bakkie-based SUVs have the aerodynamic properties – and mass – of a small house (we guess), and the Isuzu MU-X is no exception. Like any claimed fuel economy figure issued by a brand, it’s more of a suggestion than something to bank on. Still, for what it’s worth, the MU-X 3.0TD Onyx is said to consume 7.6 L/100 km, with a full-to-empty range of 1 053 km thanks to its 80-litre tank.
After travelling 1 254.9 km, our Isuzu MU-X test unit indicated 12.5 km/L on its trip computer, which converts to exactly 8 L/100 km. While most of the route comprised driving on the open road, we still think this figure is commendable, considering the additional weight of the passengers and cargo.
Despite being heavily laden, the MU-X 2.0TD Onyx was no slouch, with the auto transmission smoothly selecting the appropriate ratios. If a quick overtaking manoeuvre was needed, a solid stab of the long pedal would see the ‘box quickly summon 450 Newtons, but yes, a bit more shove would be welcome.
Practicality
One of the biggest benefits of opting for a 7-seat Adventure SUV is that you’ll have no shortage of cargo space at your disposal… well, provided that you’re not using the 3rd row to accommodate an extra pair of occupants. To be fair, in our experience, those seats are only suitable for small children anyway.
Do you need to jam in enough luggage and supplies to last 4 adults a week? If so, we’re happy to report that the MU-X 3.0TD Onyx can inhale the lot with room to spare for additional purchases made en route.
Cabin Space and Features
During the road trip, both passengers seated in the 2nd row of the 3.0TD Onyx appreciated the generous leg- and headroom – 1 of them could even cross her legs with ease. The roof-mounted aircon controls were easy to figure out and both USB ports (pictured above) were used to charge devices. For additional convenience, there’s a 220V plug socket too, which should make the remote-working crowd happy.
The cabin is generally well laid out and most creature comforts (at least those that buyers expect at this price point) are fitted. They include Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity, autonomous emergency braking, heated seats and climate control. A wireless charging pad would be a very welcome addition and Isuzu’s conservative cabin architecture looks a trifle dull – it’s more functional than aspirational.
What we dislike about the Isuzu MU-X Onyx
The Isuzu MU-X Onyx’s 3.0-litre turbodiesel engine’s performance is adequate, but not class-leading, especially when compared to that of its nearest rivals, both of which produce more power and torque. Having driven all 3 models, you do feel the difference; keep that in mind if you plan to tow trailers often.
Another bugbear was the engine note, which sounds rather agricultural/less refined than we expected. It was particularly intrusive when hard acceleration was required, but did settle down at cruising speeds. Still, despite its coarse note, you get the impression that the MU-X’s powertrain is virtually indestructible.
Then there’s the perceived value. We feel that while the Isuzu is an accomplished product, it’s not quite on the same level in terms of standard features and tech as the 2023/24 #CarsAwards category-winning Everest. The great news is that if you’re unlikely to ever require 4×4 capability, the MU-X range includes the aforementioned rear-wheel-drive 1.9TD – and you can watch a video review of that derivative below.
| Isuzu mu-X 3.0TD Onyx 4×4 | Toyota Fortuner 2.8GD-6 4×4 VX | Ford Everest 2.0 BiTurbo 4×4 XLT |
| R970 300 | R950 900 | R974 800 |
| 140 kW / 450 Nm | 150 kW / 500 Nm | 154 kW / 500 Nm |
Summary
The Isuzu MU-X proved an excellent road-trip vehicle and did exactly what we asked of it. It’s a spacious family car that can comfortably transport its occupants over long distances and it’s surefooted on gravel.
Critically, KDF 956 EC was showing minimal signs of wear and tear, and we didn’t pick up any rattles and squeaks in the cabin. Granted, some of the touchpoints, such as the USB ports had some marks, where users hadn’t successfully plugged in the first time, but it was impressive how well the cabin held up.
While it may not feel as state-of-the-art as its rivals – the Everest, in particular – we get the impression that Isuzu has focused on longevity and reliability with the MU-X. We’d happily take it adventuring again!