Tuesday, October 27, 2020

Isuzu Does Their Homework with the 2021 mu-X SUV

Isuzu has finally taken the wraps off the all-new 2021 mu-X. And judging from its design and engineering, they’ve pulled out all the stops to make it a truly class-competitive mid-sized 7-seater SUV.

Compared to the current mu-X, it’s 25 mm longer, 10 mm wider, and 15 mm taller. Its wheelbase has also been stretched by 10 mm. Outside, the all-new mu-X takes a decidedly bold and futuristic approach with a sleek and sporty silhouette. It’s high on tech with LEDs for both head- and taillights and a power tailgate function. It also offers 18 or 20-inch alloy wheels, windshield that offers both UV-A and UV-B protection, and windshield wiper sprayers that are integrated into the wiper arm.

Underneath, the mu-X rides on an all-new platform dubbed Dynamic Drive Platform. Like the all-new D-Max, it features ultra-high strength steel in its construction for the first time. Front suspension remains independent double wishbones, while at the back is a coil spring suspension with five links. According to Isuzu, the mu-X can now traverse water up to 800 mm deep.

As for powertrain choices, the mu-X shares them with the D-Max. The base models are powered by a 1.9-liter RZ4E with 150 horsepower and 350 Nm of torque. Meanwhile, the 3.0-liter 4JJ3-TCX makes 190 horsepower and 450 Nm of torque. Only the 3.0-liter is offered with four-wheel drive. Oh, and speaking about the 4WD system, it comes with Isuzu’s very own terrain mode as well as rear diff lockers.

Inside, the mu-X levels up in terms of luxury and convenience features. Aside from the upgraded looks and materials, it’s fitted with features such as a 4.2-inch color TFT display embedded in the instrument cluster, paddle shifters, a PM 2.5 high-efficiency air filtration system, a 9-inch touchscreen with ceiling mounted speakers (there are a total of 8 all around), an electronic parking brake with auto hold, and much more.

The 2021 mu-X also gets Isuzu’s Matrix Safety Intelligence driver assist system. Using a pair of stereoscopic cameras, it gives it forward collision warning with auto braking, misacceleration mitigation, adaptive cruise control with low speed follow and stop & go support, lane departure warning, and more.