Isuzu MU-X baby duties 2026 review

Brianna Fraser

1 month ago

Isuzu MU-X – This is a true 4WD that doubles as family transport. It crosses the 4WD/SUV boundary for many families.

With a major update in early 2025 the Isuzu MU-X continues its popularity amongst a wide range of buyers

Where does the Isuzu MU-X fit.

It’s a medium size seven seat 4WD. It comes with true dual range 4WD capability. But it also rides on road more like an SUV.

Its appeal is in its versatility. It suits an adventurous family, new parents or the Grandparents that are towing a van but still want room for the grandkids when they are looking after them.

For a new family with baby seats, it has many benefits.

What is the model range?

Isuzu MU-X comes in four models They are ‘LS-M,’ ‘LS-U,’ LS-T,’ and X-Terrain. These is also a special edition ‘Tour Mate, which sits above the ‘LS-T’ model and is designed specifically for owners that are looking to tow something.

All models are 4WD and the LS-M also comes with a 2WD version.

There is a choice between a 2.2L turbo diesel with an 8-speed auto transmission and a 3.0L turbo diesel engine with a 6-speed automatic transmission.

The X-Terrain and Tour Mate come exclusively with the 3.0L turbo diesel engine

Obviously, the level of luxury, comfort and even safety features grows as you go up the model range. However, the base model is well equipped, especially with safety features.

Full details of the various models can be found HERE.

A more detailed review of the Isuzu MU-X range can be found HERE

Model pricing

Pricing for the Isuzu MU-X starts at $49,900 MLP* for the 2.2L 2WD diesel, through to $77,100 MLP* for the 3.0L diesel X-Terrain.

Model Grade	Price MLP/RDAP
	3.0L Turbo Diesel	2.2L Turbo Diesel
‘LS-M’	$57.900	$55.900
2WD ‘LS-M’	N/A	$49,900
‘LS-U’	$64,900	$62,900
‘LS-T’	$73,400	$71.400
‘Tour Mate’	$79,990 RDAP	N/A
X-Terrain	$77,100	N/A

*MLP Includes GST and LCT but excluding statutory charges, dealer costs, and dealer delivery. See your dealer for RDAP. Does not include price of options. Some features mentioned in the article are options. RDAP means Recommended Drive Away Price (without options but including all other charges).

Pricing is current as of the date of the article.

Pricing comes from website Redbook or the manufacturers website.

What is good?

Very easy to live with every day.
4WD and adventure appeal
Practical family appeal

What is not so good?

No standard wireless phone charging tray .
Central screen dated and difficult to read at time.
No hybrid option

Other Isuzu MU-X Reviews for new mums

Motoring Mum Instagram reels

Motoring mum Videos – Isuzu MU-X

Coming soon

Let’s look at the Isuzu MU-X in a bit closer detail.

I’ve driven all of the engine choices and most of the models over the years. For most of this chat I’ll be focusing on the X-Terrain version.

Isuzu MU-X Styling – 8/10

As far as 4WD SUVs go the MU-X is amongst the more stylish designs. It hides its size well with sleek lines and smooth edges.

The X-Terrain stands out with a different, bolder grill design which I happen to like. Unique X-Terrain design features include:

a dark and bold aesthetic
a unique take on Isuzu’s signature double horizontal line grille design,
redesigned bi-LED headlights.
fog light surrounds,
20-inch alloy wheels and fender flares—all finished in gloss black.
Continuing with the black and sporty design, trims and accents are also finished in gloss black.
Lower body skirts across the sides and rear add to the muscular aesthetic,

However, all the MU-X models could be considered stylish.

MU-X interior ambience – 8/10

Being a medium size 4WD, the internal space is reasonable rather than cavernous.

The X-Terrain has highlight stitching on the seats and dash. It adds a premium feel.

Front occupants have comfortable and supportive seats. Both are electronically adjustable with more options for the driver. Both seats are heated and the heating function works pretty well.

Middle row seats are best suited for two people. It becomes tighter with a baby seat there. Also, you will need to slide the front passenger seat forward slightly to allow enough room for the bay seat. It will be very tight if you try to squeeze a baby seat and two passengers in the middle row seats.

Third row is best suited for occasional use for smaller children or early teens.

There are also a number of set and forget convenience features like automatic wipers, auto headlights, and high beam.

Infotainment Technology, connectivity and Audio System – 7/10

In the latest update, Isuzu made improvements to the central screen. In the past they have suffered with clarity in strong sunlight. This has improved, but there are still a few issues.

In the X-Terrain the screen is 9.0 inches. Its 8.0 inches on all other models.

That seems a little dated these days. However, the functionality and user interface works well. Touch sensitivity is excellent.

While the MU-X has wireless smart phone connectivity, there is no standard wireless charging tray. Im told that it is offered as a dealer fitted option.

Hooking up your phone is easy, but sometimes when you first get in the car it doesn’t always connect again properly. You have to manually select connection.

On top of that there are multiple USB ports and 12V outlets available.

Musical nursery rhymes are becoming a regular companion when driving these days. And when you hear the same music over and over, you want it to at least be good.

The audio quality from the 8 speaker system is reasonable and it keeps bub happy, that’s all that counts.

Isuzu MU-X interior storage space – 7/10

This is a feature of the MU-X .

4 x Bottle Holders (Front & Rear Doors)
8 x Cup Holders
- 2 x Slide out in the Front Console,
- 2 x Centre Console,
- 2 x 2nd Row Seatback,
- 2 x 3rd row
Dual glove boxes
Handy sized vente console storage bin.
Phone tray in front of the transmission lever – but not a charging tray.
Map Pockets (Front Doors)
Front Seat Back Pockets
2 x Coat Hooks (2nd Row Sides)
And more

Interior space for baby seat and ease of fitting – 9/10

There are two isofix and three top tether points for baby seats in the middle row.

The doors open wide enough for easy access, but the rear wheel arch does intrude slightly.

Fitting the baby seat is extremely easy with the isofix points. Also, the top tether points are easily accessible.

Placing Bub in the baby seat again is relatively easy. For a medium size 4WD/SUV the room and layout is practical.

Pull up window shaes would be a convenient addition.

MU-X Boot space – 8/10

Like all 4WDs and SUVs in this size the boot space is a mix. Used as a 5 seat vehicle its spacious and will easily absorb all the baby needs such as pram, carrier, nappy bag etc.

The high roof line means that if you are going away on holidays, you can stack luggage and its quite impressive how much you can fit in.

Used as a seven seat vehicle and the impression changes totally. boot space is limited and you will struggle to fit just the baby needs in.

However the practiclity of flat folding seats measn that if needed there is cavernous space available.

One feature that I really appreciate is the hands free electric rear tailgate, on LS-U, LS-T and X-Terrain. When you have your bub in your arms and trying to get the stroller or shopping packed away, its just one more thing that makes everyday use easier.

Safety for mum and bub – 9/10

One of the most important things new mums look for is safety. The Isuzu MU-X has safety in abundance.

All models come with a comprehensive suite of safety features. This is important as safety for my family shouldn’t be limited to the top models.

It comes with a Five star ANCAP safety rating – tested in Sept 2022.

Obviously, it has a strong safety cell protecting everyone inside. But there are little features that give me that warm safe feeling.

Things like

360° Surround View Monitor (SVM).
Rear view camera with guidelines – always helpful when parking or hitching a trailer.
Adaptive cruise control that allows me to select when I want to use the radar capability.
Blind spot monitor and collision avoidance function
Backing out of car parks is helped by the Rear Cross Traffic Alert.
Emergency braking for pedestrians, cars and turning a corner if needed and
The best one for me is a driver attention warning, if I’ve had a particularly bad night and my attentions starts to waver.

On top of those there are 8 Airbags – dual front, dual seat side, dual full-length curtain, front knee and centre (far-side)

Also, if you do happen to get in an accident the door locks unlock, making access easier.

One unique feature is an USB port on the left hand side of the rear view mirror that is handy for connecting a dash cam. Im beginning to think these are an essential safety feature these days.

What about engine choices.

As mentioned, there are two engine choices.

The familiar 3.0L 4 cylinder, turbo diesel engine. This provides 140kW of power and 450Nm of torque. Driving all four wheels through an on demand 4WD system and a robust 6 Sp Auto transmission.

This combination is well proven and almost bullet proof.

Fuel economy is rated at 7.6l/100k On our tests we usually used about 8.5l/100k.

The second engine and most recent addition is a 2.2L 4 cylinder, turbo diesel engine. This provides 120kW of power and 400Nm of torque. Again, driving all four wheels through an on demand 4WD system and a new 8 Sp Auto transmission.

The engine and transmission work well together to extract the most from the smaller engine.

Fuel economy is rated at 6.7l/100k. On our tests we averaged around 7.5l/100k.

So, which one should you pick.

I understand the appeal of the smaller engine. It’s about $2,000 cheaper and uses less fuel.

However, I found myself pushing harder in the smaller engine and real world difference in fuel economy came down to about 1.0l/100k.

Yes, that does add up, but the 3.0L engine is so much more relaxed to drive and has more performance when needed. Also, if you are ever going to tow something there is really no choice, it’s the bigger engine every time.

What is the Isuzu MU-X like to drive – 9/10?

Here is where the MU-X seems to thrive. It defiantly drive more like a SUV rather than a clunky 4WD.

It always has had perhaps the best ride and handling of its 4WD competitors.

There is a bit of diesel rumble. More so in the 3.0L rather than the 2.2L versions.

The mid-size design means that you never feel worried in suburban settings. Or those horrible round ramps going from one floor to the next in carparks.

Its smooth, quiet and easy to live with every day.

Isuzu owner benefits – 9/10

Isuzu is pretty good with owner benefits and that’s important for peace of mind.

They have a six year / 150,000 kilometre warranty. On top of that there is 5 year capped price servicing costs so you know exactly what they will cost you.

If you unfortunately break down or even get a flat tyre, Isuzu offers a seven year roadside assistance service for vehicles serviced at Isuzu service centres.

The last thing a mum wants to do is try to change a flat tyre with a screaming bub on board.

It would be less confusing if they just did a 7/7/7 year arrangement.

Model

Year

Engine

Transmission

Isuzu

MY25.5

3.0L T Diesel

6 Speed Auto

Service Interval (whichever occurs first)	Price
3 Months or 3,000 km	Free
1 Year or 15,000 km	$489.00
2 Years or 30,000 km	$489.00
3 Years or 45,000 km	$489.00
4 Years or 60,000 km	$489.00
5 Years or 75,000 km	$489.00

Value for money – 9/10

These days the price of all vehicles is what you might consider expensive. However, when you compare the MU-X to other popular 4WDs and even AWD SUV’s that buyers may shop against. I would have to say its relatively good value for money. Especially some of the mid-range models.

Final thoughts

The Isuzu MU-X is well designed for families.

It’s the ability to cover so many options for a family. The versatility of true 4WD capability, excellent towing ability and all round family practicality that makes it so appealing.

It looks good, which is important for stylish mums. Is easy to live with every day and very comfortable to drive.

As a five seat 4WD/SUV it stands out.

So, my overall impressions of the Isuzu MU-X is that it is Mum and Bub approved.

Instead of the Isuzu MU-X – buyers could look at:

Competition in 4WD Recreational Ute segment is tight .

There is strong competition with:

Alternative SUVs include:

Isuzu MU-X more details
Model	MU-X X-Terrain 4WD
Model Price	$77,100 MLP*
Engine	3.0L 4cyl turbo-diesel
Drivetrain	6Sp Sport AT 4WD
Battery Capacity / type	N/A
Voltage / Capacity	N/A
Power	140 Kw @ 3,600 rpm
Torque	450 Nm @ 1,600 – 2.600 rpm
Range (WLTP) / ADR	1000km plus
Economy / efficiency	7.6 L/100 km ADR – 8.5 L/100K on test.
Fast Charge**/ Home	N/A
Safety	Five Star ANCAP Sept 2022
CO2 Emissions	200 gm/km Euro 5
0-100kmh/Top Speed	TBC
Servicing	12mth / 15,000km Capped price service plan
Warranty	6yr/ 150,000 km
Roadside Assist	7Yr. conditional roadside assist

Pricing comes from website Redbook or the manufacturers website.

Overall Motoring Mum rating	83/100
Styling	8
Interior Comfort and Ambience	8
Infotainment connectivity	7
Storage	7
Baby seat	9
Boot space	8
Safety	9
Driving	9
Owner benefits	9
Value for Money	9

Dimensions
Overall Length	4860mm
Wheelbase	2855mm
Width	1870mm
Height	1825mm
Wheels	20 X 7.5-inch Alloys
Tyres	265/50 R20
Max ground clearance	235mm
Wading Depth	800mm
Approach	29.2 degrees
Rampover	23.1 degrees
Departure angle	26.4 degrees
Turning Circle KTK	11.60m
Boot Min	311L
Boot Max	2138L
Kerb Weight	2195kg
Battery weight	N/A
Payload (kg)	646kg
GVM (kg)	2800kg
GCM	5900kg
Towing Capacity	3500kg
Tow Ball rating	350kg