Isuzu MU-X 2021 has just landed with an assertive new design and numerous enhancements, ready to take on the highly competitive full-sized SUV segment. The second generation model, which was introduced in Thailand and will soon enter other global markets such as Australia and India, comes with major modifications that make it more attractive to families, adventurers, and off-roaders. The MU-X is based on a new platform and also shares its underpinnings with the all-new Isuzu D-Max pickup, which bodes well as far as better performance, safety, and comfort are concerned. In this story, we take a swim in the best five updates that characterize the 2021 Isuzu MU-X, and how these modifications make it a formidable opponent to the SUVs, including the Toyota Fortuner, Ford Endeavour, and Mahindra Alturas G4.
1. Restyled Outside Layout
The exterior design of the 2021 Isuzu MU-X is totally new and more modern and muscular. The new MU-X is designed in a sleek and aggressive manner unlike its predecessor whose design was more utilitarian. A pillarless design could be found in the front fascia as it is dominated by a bold twin-slat horizontal grille that has a thick chrome panel that makes it looks premium and commanding. LED headlights that include daytime running lights as standard give the front a sleeker, more modern look, and the fog lamps have been redesigned and are incorporated farther down the redesigned front bumper.
The side profile is marked by sporty creases and redesigned 20-inch alloy wheels, which make the SUV very attractive in motion. Around back, the sharper wraparound LED tail lamps, a redesigned bumper, and a tailgate round out the changes. The new MU-X also has a bit bigger size, as its length is 4,850 mm, width is 1,870 mm, and the height is 1,875 mm. It has a 10 mm longer wheelbase than before at 2,855 mm, which provides better stability and interior space. The said changes do not only enhance the aesthetics of the MU-X but also bring it in line with the current trends of the SUVs, thus, making it the eye-catcher in both the urban streets and off-road tracks.
2. Interior Premium features and upgraded
Enter the 2021 Isuzu MU-X and you will see that its cabin has been dramatically reworked. The interior has become more luxurious, and it is concentrated on technology and comfort. The dashboard is done in golden accents and soft-touch materials, as opposed to the hard plastics of the previous model. Since luxury is in the details, ventilated leather seats are provided, and the center console is renewed along with the surfaces material of high quality.
The most outstanding feature is the nine-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which is compatible with contemporary connectivity settings. The driving experience is also enhanced by a multi-functional steering wheel with mounted controls, ambient lighting, as well as dual-zone automatic climate control. To make life easier, the MU-X has an electronically operated parking brake, eight-way adjustable power driver seat, and a power tailgate. The seven-seater design is still a family-friendly concept that offers enough legroom and has a large cargo area. The interior of the MU-X is more upmarket as compared to its competitors such as the Toyota Fortuner and the mixed functionality and luxury make it ideally suited to long distance traveling or even everyday use.
3. Advanced Technology to promote Safet
The 2021 Isuzu MU-X is also focused on safety, as the SUV gets a set of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). The availability of level-one autonomous technology is a major step up and it introduces such goodies as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. Autonomous emergency braking is available with pedestrian and cyclist detection via a 3D stereo camera system, whilst rear cross-traffic alert and a parking aid system help make light work of maneuvering in tight spots.
As standard, the SUV has six airbags, traction control, hill start assist, and hill descent control, among others, which provide all-round protection to occupants. The IntelligentDriver Assistance System (IDAS) in Isuzu is equipped with the latest sensors and cameras to assist the driver in real-time safely. The MU-X has not been tested by ANCAP yet but its twin brother, the Isuzu D-Max, received a five-star safety rating so there is a high probability that the MU-X will do the same. The mentioned upgrades render the MU-X a safer family option and place it in the competitive position against its opponents, such as the Ford Endeavour, which also focuses on the advanced safety technology.
4. Better Powertrain Availablity
The 2021 Isuzu MU-X has two diesel engines that are efficient and powerful under the hood. The entry-level 1.9-liter four-cylinder turbo diesel develops 150 horsepower and 350 Nm of torque, which is adequate in the city and to appeal to the fuel- conscious customers. And for the ones who want even more, there is a 3.0-liter four-cylinder turbo diesel that produces 190 horsepower and 450 Nm of torque that should be good enough towing and off-roading. Both engines come mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, whilst a six-speed manual is available in select markets
The powertrains of MU-X are improved compared to the previous model with improved fuel efficiency and reduced emission. The 3.0 liter engine specifically gets a significant boost in power over the previous model which had 174 horsepower and 380 Nm. The MU-X has a huge 80-liter fuel tank which ensures an impressive range, but in some variants, it can easily do over 1,000 km on a full tank. It has a rear-wheel-drive system as standard and an optional shift-on-fly four-wheel-drive system on the higher trims making it versatile on all kinds of terrain. These improvements add to the fact that the MU-X is a capable vehicle both in the urban jungle and when facing rough terrains.
5. Powerful Platform and Extreme Capability
The 2021 Isuzu MU-X uses a new ladder-frame chassis, which it shares with the third-generation Isuzu D-Max, which has a better rigid and durable body. This platform increases off-road ability and towing capability of the SUV, which is an impressive 3,500 kg. The newer suspension design, with its double-wishbone front suspension and a five-link coil rear suspension is superior in handling and ride comfort, over the older model with its leaf-spring suspension. The use of stiffer spring rates and a thicker anti-roll bar minimizes body roll so the MU-X is more stable on highways and on winding roads.
The MU-X also features 235 mm of ground clearance, making it more than capable of handling off-road expeditions, and it has a reinforced chassis that allows greater gross vehicle mass (up to 2,800 kg on 4x4 models) and gross combination mass (5,900 kg). Even the option of a rear differential lock on some models further enhances its off-road ability, and it is a confident performer when it comes to overlanding or towing a heavy trailer. These updates keep the MU-X as a sensible and competent SUV, which would attract customers that like their rough performance with modern conveniences.
What Makes the 2021 Isuzu MU-X Special.
Isuzu has more than simply facelifted the MU-X; the 2021 model has been completely redesigned to give the SUV more presence in a busy segment. Its stylish sharp looks, high-quality cabin, safety technology, smooth powertrains, and sturdy foundation are some of the reasons why it would persuade buyers to purchase a versatile seven-seater. Be it a family that seeks a comfortable daily driver or an adventurer who wants to go off-road, the MU-X performs on several levels.
The rugged-yet-modern technology blend of the MU-X puts it at an advantage in markets such as India, where it has to face off against established competitors, including the Toyota Fortuner and MG Gloster. The fact that it has bigger dimensions, better towing capacity and better fuel efficiency makes it a viable choice to make when one wants to travel long distance as well. Whereas its predecessor MU-X could be characterized as a no-nonsense type of SUV, the 2021 model introduces a certain degree of sophistication without compromising the previous model year in terms of its essential qualities.
Availability and market Positioning
The 2021 Isuzu MU-X was unveiled globally in Thailand and it will retail at around THB 1,109,000 (around Rs. 26.30 lakh) to THB 1,579,000 (around Rs. 37.45 lakh), depending on variant. The MU-X comes in six lively color variations, namely the Marrakesh Brown, Dolomite White Pearl, and Etna Red to suit every appetite. It should arrive in international markets, such as Australia and India, in 2021, though India could get the BS6-compliant older model first with a 1.9-liter engine.
Since its introduction in 2013, the MU-X has been one of the best selling ute-based SUVs in Australia, beating the Mitsubishi Pajero Sport, Ford Everest and others. Its second-generation model promises to carry on with this success, with the range-topping LS-T 4x4 starting at AUD 63,990 drive-away. The improved features and the competitive price of the SUV will be very appealing to the buyers who want a good value and capacity.
Issues and caveats
Nevertheless, the numerous advantages of the 2021 Isuzu MU-X do not eliminate the difficulties in the most competitive markets. Competitors such as the Toyota Fortuner and MG Gloster have more hi-tech interiors and the benefit of brand loyalty, which may influence customers in India. Its appeal may also be curtailed by the fact that, in India, it has been decided to revive the older model with BS6 compliance instead of the new-generation MU-X. Moreover, the price of the MU-X has been going up considerably, by 40 percent in India, where it was launched in 2017, which can discourage economically conscious consumers.
The styling of the MU-X is aggressive, but not everyone will like it, and some critics stated that the MU-X looks puffy next to the sleek Ford Everest. These concerns are, however, overshadowed by its utilitarian nature, its roomy cabin, and its ability to go off-road by most buyers. The absence of a hybrid or petrol engine option could also prove to be an ire in markets that are shifting toward greener pastures, although Isuzu is said to be looking into electrified powertrains in future models.
The Future of Things
In the future, the 2021 Isuzu MU-X provides a solid basis of the SUV range of the brand. The fact that it is designed with modern style, integrated with advanced features and wrapped in a rough performance makes it a balanced device to suit the needs of a wide range of buyers. The emphasis on safety and refinement present in Isuzu indicates its interest to adapt to the changing consumer needs whereas the fact that it shares platform with the D-Max makes it economical in terms of costs and predictability.
A facelifted version is possible in the future, as observed in Thailand in 2024, which will feature a redesigned grille, full-width LED tail lamps, and an new RS variant which will be sportier in appearance. Even the introduction of a 2.2-liter diesel engine in select markets is an indication of Isuzu seeking to meet emissions standards that are tighter. The 2021 MU-X is, at least, worth considering as the SUV that offers plenty of features, is highly reliable, and is capable of conquering both the jungle of a city and the off-road tracks.
Conclusion
The 2021 Isuzu MU-X represents a major leap forward for the Japanese manufacturer, as it has combined style, technology, and ability in a manner that will attract the contemporary buyers of the SUV segment. Its five best changes that include a refreshed exterior, improved interior, increased safety, better powertrains, and a stiff platform make it the best in its segment. With its tough urban streets, caravan towing, or adventurous off-the-beaten-track, the MU-X has the versatility and reliability to handle any job.
The MU-X will enter the global markets soon and is likely to cause an upset among the incumbent competitors as well as gain some new followers. Its combination of old-fashioned good looks and modern amenities makes it a formidable competitor, and it is not wrong to say that Isuzu is now confident enough to enter the full-sized SUV market. The 2021 Isuzu MU-X is one of the vehicles that a buyer should consider when wanting a practical, safe, and stylish seven-seater.
