The Isuzu MU-X is a rugged 7-seater SUV from Isuzu that aims to combine strong diesel performance with real off-road ability. It is built to handle tough roads, daily family drives and long highway trips with confidence. The MU-X appeals to buyers who want durability, space and torque from a diesel SUV in India. This detailed article explains every major aspect of the Isuzu MU-X in simple English for Indian readers. It covers design, engines, interior, safety, features, ride quality, real world use, pricing, ownership tips, a full spec table and a helpful FAQ section.
Quick spec table
| Specification | Typical figure |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1.9 litre 4-cyl common-rail turbo diesel |
| Max Power | ~161 PS / 163 PS approx |
| Max Torque | ~360 Nm |
| Transmission | 6-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | 4×2 / 4×4 automatic with shift-on-the-fly terrain control |
| Seating | 7 |
| Mileage | ~12.3 to 13 kmpl ARAI (mixed) |
| Boot space | ~878 litres behind 3rd row |
| Ground clearance | ~230 mm |
| Safety | 6 airbags, ABS, ESC, traction control, ISOFIX anchors |
| Price guide (India) | ~₹34.5 lakh to ~₹37.7 lakh ex-showroom depending on variant and city Autocar India |
Introduction — Why the MU-X Matters in India
The Isuzu MU-X is a full size SUV that competes in a segment dominated by tough diesel 7-seaters. In India, big SUVs are popular for families, long trips and even rural use. The MU-X tries to offer a strong diesel engine, real 4×4 capability and generous space while keeping running costs sensible. It comes with automatic gearbox and is designed to be reliable and durable over many years of use. torqueisuzu.in+1
Exterior Design and Road Presence
The MU-X has a traditional SUV look with a rugged stance and strong proportions. The front features a bold grille and bi-LED projector headlamps with LED daytime running lights in most trims. The roof rails, wide wheel arches and alloy wheels give it a purposeful presence. Its design is not flashy, but it clearly shows SUV character and capability. Many buyers like this old-school SUV style because it signals toughness and functionality. CarWale
The big dimensions make the MU-X feel substantial on the road and help with interior space and third row comfort. Ground clearance of around 230 mm is useful for bad roads and rural terrain. ZigWheels.com
Interior Space, Comfort and Practicality
Inside, the MU-X cabin is spacious and functional. It seats seven adults comfortably across three rows. The second row has enough space for adults on long trips while the third row is more usable than many rivals for people of average height. Leather seats are available on higher trims and comfort is good for highway driving. CarWale
The dashboard layout mixes analogue and digital elements, and the central touchscreen supports basic connectivity. The one-touch split and fold second and third rows make luggage handling easy when extra space is needed. Behind the third row there is about 235 litres of luggage space, which expands to around 878 litres when the third row is folded. With both the second and third rows down, boot space grows to over 1,800 litres, which is generous for long trips. Overdrive
Practical touches like multiple USB ports, AC vents for all three rows and convenient bottle holders make daily use easier. The cabin design is functional more than ultra-premium, but it fulfils family needs well.
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Engine, Transmission and Performance
The current Isuzu MU-X for India is powered by a 1.9 litre 4-cylinder common-rail turbo diesel engine. It produces around 161–163 PS of power and about 360 Nm of torque. This engine is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission that helps deliver smooth acceleration and good highway cruising ability. Autocar India
Isuzu’s diesel torque comes at low rpm, which is useful for quick overtakes on highways and confident cruising with a full load of passengers and luggage. The automatic gearbox shifts smoothly and is tuned for balanced city driving and highway use. Product Bank
For buyers who want real terrain ability, the 4×4 version of the MU-X has a ‘shift-on-the-fly’ terrain control dial. This lets drivers move between 2-high, 4-high and 4-low range up to a certain speed for better traction in slippery or uneven surfaces. torqueisuzu.in
Ride Quality and Handling
The MU-X ride quality is firm and confident. The suspension soaks up major bumps and bad roads, making long trips comfortable overall. Steering feel is steady, and the SUV has decent stability at highway speeds for its size and weight. Cruiser stability is an important factor in India where highway conditions vary widely.
The heavier body means it is not as quick or nimble as smaller SUVs, but for a full size seven seater diesel SUV, its ride balance is agreeable for most family buyers.
Safety Features — Built for Protection
Safety is a strong point for the MU-X. It comes with multiple airbags including front, side and curtain airbags in higher trims. Standard safety aids include:
• ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD).
• Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Traction Control System (TCS).
• Hill Hold Assist and Hill Descent Control.
• ISOFIX child seat anchors.
• Speed sensing auto door locks and seat belt reminders.
• Rear parking sensors and reverse camera. CarHP India+1
Some international testing programs have given the MU-X strong safety ratings thanks to high tensile steel body construction and robust structure, but specific local crash ratings (like Bharat NCAP) depend on the tested variant.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The MU-X cabin includes a central touchscreen infotainment system that supports smartphone connectivity for navigation and music. In higher trims the system is larger and paired with more premium audio options.
Steering mounted controls, automatic climate control, cruise control and keyless start add convenience for urban and highway driving alike. Rear AC vents and vents for the third row help keep all passengers comfortable on long trips.
Fuel Efficiency and Running Costs
The Isuzu MU-X has an ARAI-claimed mileage of around 12.3 to 13 kmpl under mixed conditions, which is reasonable for a seven seater SUV of its size and diesel engine. Real world mileage may be a bit lower in heavy city traffic, but on highways it can deliver good figures for long journeys. CarDekho
Diesel engines are typically more fuel efficient and cost less per kilometre than petrol engines in India. This makes the MU-X appealing for buyers who do long distance travel, carry a full family regularly, or want to keep running cost under control.
Variants and Price in India
In India the MU-X is offered in two main variants:
• MU-X 4×2 Automatic — entry diesel automatic SUV.
• MU-X 4×4 Automatic — diesel SUV with shift-on-the-fly 4×4 control for tougher terrain. Autocar India
The ex-showroom price band typically starts around ₹34.5 lakh for the 4×2 variant and rises to around ₹37.7 lakh for the 4×4 variant in many cities. On-road prices vary widely based on city, taxes, insurance and optional accessories, so it is wise to get a dealer quote when considering purchase.
Ownership Experience in India
Owning an Isuzu MU-X in India means joining a relatively niche SUV club with strong reliability and diesel durability. Isuzu has been known for rugged engines and strong chassis designs.
Service network has improved in major cities, but prospective buyers should check their nearest authorised service centre before purchase. Diesel SUVs tend to have longer service intervals than petrol cars, but maintenance is important to prevent wear.
Diesel engines, turbochargers and transmissions are robust, but ensure regular servicing and use recommended fluids to prolong life. Extended warranty and service packages from the dealer can help reduce long-term ownership costs.
How the MU-X Compares with Rivals
The MU-X competes with SUVs like the Toyota Fortuner, Ford Endeavour and others in the big diesel SUV space. Its strengths are:
• Diesel torque and efficiency.
• Real 4×4 capability on select trims.
• Spacious 7-seater layout.
• Rugged reliability typical of Isuzu engines. CarWale
Some rivals may offer more premium interiors or higher tech features, but the MU-X focuses on practical durability and robust performance for real world use.
Pros and Cons Quick Summary
Pros
• Strong diesel torque and transmission for long drives.
• Real 4×4 option with terrain control.
• Spacious 7-seat cabin with flexible luggage space.
• Good safety equipment and family friendly design.
• Reasonable diesel mileage for class.
Cons
• Infotainment and cabin layout not as fancy as some rivals.
• Running costs higher than compact SUVs.
• Price is competitive but some rivals may offer more luxury.
• Diesel-only options limit choice for petrol buyers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Isuzu MU-X a good SUV for Indian families?
A: Yes. It offers a roomy seven seat cabin, strong diesel torque and practical safety features for everyday family use and long trips.
Q: What engine does the MU-X use?
A: The MU-X in India uses a 1.9 litre common-rail diesel engine with automatic transmission. Autocar India
Q: Does the MU-X have real 4×4 capability?
A: Yes. The 4×4 variant comes with shift-on-the-fly terrain control and can switch between 2H, 4H and 4L modes for tougher terrain.
Q: How much mileage can I expect?
A: ARAI figures are around 12.3 to 13 kmpl. Real world use may be slightly lower in heavy city traffic. CarDekho
Q: Is safety good on the MU-X?
A: Yes. It has six airbags, ABS with EBD, ESC, traction control and ISOFIX child seat anchors among other safety gear. CarHP India
Final Verdict — Should You Buy It?
If you want a rugged, durable and spacious diesel SUV with real 4×4 capability, the Isuzu MU-X is a strong choice in India. It is especially suitable for long highway journeys, family use and buyers who prioritise torque, diesel efficiency and towing or terrain handling. Its pricing is competitive for its class and it stands up well against rivals in the large SUV segment. Consider a test drive, check local ownership costs and compare features for the trim that best serves your needs.
