The 2025 Isuzu MU-X offers a capable and practical seven-seat SUV package, now with a more efficient 1.9L engine option. While it impresses with its off-road ability and spacious interior, the smaller engine struggles with highway performance.
7.8/10
CarExplore Overall Comparative Score
This score reflects the ratings from CarExpert only.
Quick Facts
- Price: $59,900 plus on-road costs (LS-U 1.9L 4x4)
- Engine: 1.9L 4-cylinder turbo-diesel
- Power/Torque: 110kW/350Nm
- Transmission: 6-speed automatic
- Fuel Economy (Claimed): 7.4L/100km
- Fuel Economy (Tested): 9.0L/100km
Key Specification
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1.9L 4-cylinder turbo-diesel |
| Power | 110kW @ 3600rpm |
| Torque | 350Nm @ 1800-2600rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed automatic |
| Drive Type | Part-time four-wheel drive |
| Fuel Consumption (Claimed) | 7.4L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption (Tested) | 9.0L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80L |
| AdBlue Tank Capacity | 14.5L |
| 0-100km/h | Not specified |
| Towing Capacity | 3000kg (braked) |
| Payload | 625kg |
| Ground Clearance | 235mm |
| Wading Depth | 800mm |
| Approach Angle | 29.2 degrees |
| Departure Angle | 26.4 degrees |
| Ramp Breakover Angle | 23.1 degrees |
| Boot Space | 311L (all seats up), 1119L (third row folded), 2138L (second and third rows folded) |
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Spacious interior, especially third row
- Capable off-road performance
- Improved fuel efficiency with 1.9L engine
- Comprehensive safety features
- Six-year warranty
Cons:
- Underpowered for highway driving
- Basic interior tech and materials
- Firm ride quality
- Limited front storage options
- High price for LS-U trim
Key Features
- 9.0-inch touchscreen infotainment
- Wireless Apple CarPlay, wired Android Auto
- Dual-zone climate control
- Power tailgate
- Part-time four-wheel drive system
- 3000kg braked towing capacity
CarExplore's Take on the 2025 Isuzu MU-X
The Isuzu MU-X LS-U 1.9L 4x4 offers a mix of practicality and off-road capability, but struggles to justify its price point. The smaller engine provides better fuel efficiency but lacks power for highway driving and towing. Interior space is a strong point, especially the roomy third row. While it excels off-road, the on-road experience is compromised by firm ride quality and basic interior tech.
Ideal For: Families needing a spacious seven-seater with off-road capability and good fuel economy for city driving.
Consider Alternatives If: You require more highway performance, towing capacity, or a more refined on-road experience.
How does the new 1.9L engine compare to the 3.0L in terms of performance?
A: The 1.9L engine offers better fuel efficiency but significantly less power, struggling with highway driving and heavy loads compared to the 3.0L.
Is the MU-X suitable for towing?
A: While it has a 3000kg braked towing capacity, the 1.9L engine may struggle with heavy loads. The 3.0L engine is better suited for serious towing.
How spacious is the third row of seats?
A: The MU-X offers one of the most spacious third rows in its class, suitable for adults on shorter trips.
What is the fuel economy like in real-world conditions?
A: CarExpert tested 9.0L/100km in mixed driving, higher than the claimed 7.4L/100km but still efficient for its class.
Does the MU-X come with advanced safety features?
A: Yes, it includes AEB, adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and other modern safety technologies as standard.
How capable is the MU-X off-road?
A: The MU-X performs well off-road with its part-time four-wheel drive system and good ground clearance, though it lacks some features of more dedicated off-roaders.
What is the warranty coverage for the Isuzu MU-X?
A: Isuzu offers a six-year, 150,000km warranty, which is competitive in its class.
