The Isuzu Thread

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Isuzu confirms seven-seater MU-X for South Africa!

Isuzu Motors South Africa has confirmed that the MU-X is on its way to local shores.

Late in 2017, we reported (with a little help from sister title, Leisure Wheels) that Isuzu Motors South Africa had plans to bring the KB-based MU-X to local shores. And now the brand has confirmed that the body-on-frame SUV will indeed be introduced here in the third quarter of 2018.

Isuzu says the MU-X (a cousin of the Chevrolet Trailblazer) will be priced “competitively” as it seeks to take on the big-selling Toyota Fortuner, the increasingly popular Ford Everest and the fresh-faced Mitsubishi Pajero Sport.

Although the local line-up and specifications have yet to be revealed, Isuzu Motors SA has confirmed that the MU-X 300 will be part of the range. This derivative employs a 3,0-litre turbodiesel mill (rather than the Trailblazer’s 144 kW/500 N.m 2,8-litre oil-burner) tuned to deliver 130 kW and 380 N.m to all four corners via a six-speed automatic transmission.

It boasts a five-link rear suspension arrangement, bi-LED projector headlamps, a reversing camera and seven seats. Towing capacity (braked) comes in at 3 000 kg. Isuzu says it will offer a five-year/120 000 km warranty and a five-year/90 000 km service plan, with intervals of 15 000 km, as standard.

Isuzu MU-X “This great product will extend the Isuzu product range, offering customers an option to choose between the rugged and capable Isuzu pick-up and a sophisticated Isuzu SUV for both work and leisure, ensuring they are catered for in the Isuzu family,” said Dominic Rimmer, executive technical services at Isuzu.

“We are excited about the addition of the MU-X into the Isuzu portfolio, offering customers a SUV originating from a strong brand that is trusted and known for reliability by South Africans,” he added.

Back in May 2017, General Motors announced that it would cease operations in South Africa. The Chevrolet brand was thus phased out of the local market at the end of 2017.

Soon after the announcement, Isuzu Motors revealed its intention to purchase the Struandale plant in Port Elizabeth as well as GM’s 30% shareholding in Isuzu Trucks South Africa. And that has seemingly opened the door for Isuzu to finally offer an SUV in South Africa again (remember the Isuzu Frontier?).

http://www.carmag.co.za/news_post/isuzu-confirms-seven-seater-mu-x-for-south-africa/
 
Isuzu's Fortuner-fighter confirmed for SA

Although it has been widely expected that Isuzu would bring its MU-X to South Africa at some stage, the Japanese utility vehicle specialist has now officially confirmed that this SUV will hit our shores later in 2018.

Bolstering Isuzu’s presence as an independent entity in South Africa following GMSA’s departure, the MU-X will go up against the Toyota Fortuner, Ford Everest and Mitsubishi Pajero Sport, and if you think it looks a little familiar you’re right on the money as the MU-X does share its platform, cabin and body structure with the Chevrolet Trailblazer (and Isuzu’s own KB bakkie for that matter).

At this stage there is no mention of whether it’ll be built locally alongside the KB in the Struandale factory that Isuzu bought from GM.

The local line-up, specs and pricing are also under wraps for now, although Isuzu SA has said that the familiar 3-litre turbodiesel engine will be offered. This motor, also offered in the KB, produces 130kW and 380Nm and can be mated to either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic gearbox.

Overseas markets such as Thailand also get the option of a 1.9-litre turbodiesel engine, rated at 110kW and 350Nm, and though there’s no word on whether it will ever be offered locally, it would surely make sense as a more budget-friendly alternative to the 3-litre.

The new Isuzu’s cabin will look familiar to current KB owners, although a larger ‘floating’ touchscreen infotainment system has been installed and like its Trailblazer cabin (which is also largely shared with the MU-X), there is seating for seven occupants.

https://www.iol.co.za/motoring/latest-launches/isuzus-fortuner-fighter-confirmed-for-sa-13322508
 
No V6 on the cards for Isuzu KB: ‘It’s not a racing car’

An Isuzu executive in Australia says the Japanese automaker has no interest in joining the V6 power wars, quipping that the KB bakkie is “not a racing car”.

Speaking to drive.com.au, Yugo Kiyofuji, deputy managing director at Isuzu Ute Australia, explained that the automaker had no plans to include a V6-powered performance model in its range of next-generation KB (or D-Max, as it’s known Down Under) pick-ups.

“For the next generation, I don’t have anything to comment on, but from my perspective we will remain [true to the] Isuzu brand. I’m not going to ask the factory to introduce a V6 or 300 kW and 600 N.m,” he told the publication.

“Some boast about V6 and some about figures, but we are not trying to go into a battle of the figures. What we are focusing on is how the customers can use the vehicles,” Kiyofuji added, citing the KB’s “high torque from low revs”.

He was, of course, making reference to the power battle currently on the go between the V6 versions of the Volkswagen Amarok and Mercedes-Benz X-Class.

“It’s not about 200 kW and whatever. It’s not a speeding car; it’s not a racing car. So I think we are going to keep the same Isuzu spirit for the next generation, at least around the powertrain.”

Still, Kiyofuji confirmed that Isuzu (in Australia, at least) is considering an off-road model to rival the Ford Ranger Raptor, perhaps based on the Arctic Trucks AT35 version sold in the United Kingdom.

http://www.carmag.co.za/news/no-v6-on-the-cards-for-isuzu-kb-its-not-a-racing-car/
 
Isuzu's new MU-X SUV shipment arrives in SA ahead of launch

The first shipment of Isuzu’s new MU-X sports utility vehicle (SUV) arrived at the Port Elizabeth harbour, ahead of its local launch early in May this year.

These vehicles will make their way to dealer showrooms across the country, joining Isuzu’s current portfolio of one-ton bakkies and commercial vehicles.

For the off-roader or urban driver

Featuring Isuzu’s legendary 3.0-litre turbo-diesel engine, the MU-X is set to entice both the serious off road adventurer as well as the sophisticated urban driver.

Isuzu Motors announced the official launch of its business operations in South Africa earlier in February. This follows the announcement of last year where Isuzu had said that it would purchase the light commercial vehicle operations in Port Elizabeth and also the balance of shareholding in its Isuzu Trucks South Africa operations.

President and Representative Director of Isuzu Motors of Japan Masanori Katayama says that Isuzu was committed to growing its business in South Africa.

Katayama says: "This is the first commercial and light commercial vehicle manufacturing operation outside of Japan in which we have acquired a 100% ownership. We are represented in 30 countries outside of Japan and successfully operate 47 manufacturing plants in these countries with joint venture partners.”

"Our decision with regards to South Africa demonstrates the confidence we have in this market and also is indicative of our longer-term view that South Africa will serve as an important base for our future growth on the African continent.”

http://www.wheels24.co.za/NewModels...ipment-arrives-in-sa-ahead-of-launch-20180423
 
Isuzu reveals menacing KB Arctic Trucks Stealth model

What you’re looking at here is the new Isuzu KB (or D-Max, as it’s known in some markets) Arctic Trucks Stealth model. Revealed at the 2018 CV Show in the United Kingdom, just 10 examples of the menacing bakkie will be built.

Based on the Arctic Trucks AT35 double-cab bakkie (in five-speed automatic guise) and finished in Cosmic Black Mica paint, each Stealth model’s cabin is fitted with a unique numbered badge.

The Japanese automaker has effectively “de-chromed” the bakkie, giving it black roof bars, black side-steps, a black grille, black fog-lamp surrounds, black rear bumper trim, black side-mirrors, black door handles and a black Isuzu badge up front.

The obligatory “Arctic Trucks” badges have also been added, while the “Isuzu” decal on the tailgate has been deleted. Further additions include a black sports bar, a black top-roller cover and LED headlamps, along with additional light bars on the front bumper and sports bar.

Inside, you’ll find bespoke leather upholstery and a new nine-inch touchscreen system feeding nine speakers (including a subwoofer).

Like the AT35 on which it is based, the Stealth model is powered by a 1,9-litre turbodiesel engine, which makes 120 kW and 360 N.m. It boasts 35-inch rubber wrapped around 17-inch alloys, which (along with a lift-kit) helps to create a ground clearance of 290 mm.

http://www.carmag.co.za/news/isuzu-reveals-menacing-kb-arctic-trucks-stealth-model/

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Here’s how much the Isuzu MU-X costs in South Africa

The Isuzu MU-X has officially arrived in South Africa, with the local range of the seven-seater SUV comprising two derivatives (one rear-wheel drive and the other all-paw) at launch.

The KB-based MU-X, a cousin of the Chevrolet Trailblazer that is no longer offered in South Africa, joins a segment that includes the big-selling Toyota Fortuner, the increasingly popular Ford Everest and the fresh-faced Mitsubishi Pajero Sport.

Both derivatives in the new MU-X range employ a 3,0-litre turbodiesel mill (rather than the Trailblazer’s 144 kW/500 N.m 2,8-litre oil-burner) tuned to deliver 130 kW and 380 N.m, and linked to a six-speed automatic transmission.

The MU-X 3,0 4×2 model is priced at R568 000 (for the sake of comparison, the rear-wheel-drive Toyota Fortuner 2,8GD-6 costs R564 300), while the flagship MU-X 3,0 4×4 comes in at R629 100 (the Fortuner 2,8GD-6 4×4 auto is R646 800).

The body-on-frame MU-X boasts a five-link rear suspension arrangement, bi-LED projector headlamps, a reversing camera and seven seats. Braked towing capacity comes in at 3 000 kg, while a five-year/120 000 km warranty and a five-year/90 000 km service plan (the latter with intervals of 15 000 km) will come standard.

We’ll update this story once we learn more about the two variants’ respective specifications…

Pricing:

Isuzu MU-X 3,0 4×2 AT6: R568 000
Isuzu MU-X 3,0 4×4 AT6: R629 100

http://www.carmag.co.za/news/heres-how-much-the-isuzu-mu-x-costs-in-south-africa/
 
Isuzu MU-X (2018) Specs & Price

Isuzu has introduced its first new model since General Motors' departure from the South African market: it's a 7-seater Adventure SUV named the MU-X, which is a rival to the Toyota Fortuner, Ford Everest and Mitsubishi Pajero Sport.
When General Motors SA announced it was shutting up shop, everyone was worried that the brands in its portfolio would disappear from the market. Fortunately, Isuzu, which was not affiliated with GM outside of South Africa anyway, has stuck around and is launching products independently. The MU-X is a well-specced bakkie-based SUV (it shares its underpinnings with the KB range) and Isuzu claims it offers superb all-round capability.

Engine and Transmission
The new Isuzu MU-X is powered by a 3.0-litre 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine with peak outputs of 130 kW and 380 Nm, giving it enough oomph to tow trailers and caravans. Speaking of towing, the MU-X has a braked tow rating of 3 000 kg; it's available with a choice of either 4x2 rear-wheel drive or part-time 4x4 drive, the latter of which features Isuzu's Terrain Command 4x4 system with electronically selected 2-High, 4-High and 4-Low modes. Both derivatives have an automatic transmission.

In terms of off-road capability, the Isuzu MU-X has a ground clearance of 230 mm, a 24-degree approach angle and departure angle of 25.1-degrees. There's extensive underbody protection, including a sturdy steel guard (for the sump and transfer case) for added peace of mind.

Features

The Isuzu MU-X comes in 2 flavours; 3.0 4X2 AT6 and 3.0 4x4 AT6. At the front, there are LED daytime running lights, along with Bi-LED projector headlamps with auto-levelling functionality. The vehicle rides on 18-inch alloy wheels.

Inside, the newcomer offers seating for 7 occupants and the centre and rear rows of seats can be folded flat to free up utility space. It boasts a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment unit that includes an 8-speaker audio system with DVD/MP3-compatible CD player, Bluetooth connectivity and audio streaming, as well as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality. Satellite navigation is standard, plus front and rear USB slots are provided, in conjunction with an auxiliary iPod and HDMI ports.

A climate control system is standard, while rear seat occupants are catered for with their own cooling vents. A trip computer featuring fuel economy, range, odometer and trip meter readouts, plus maintenance data is included. The seats are wrapped in leather, while the driver's seat is 6-way electrically adjustable. The leather-trimmed steering wheel features controls for phone, audio and cruise control. A reverse-view camera is also fitted, while rear parking sensors are optionally available.

Isuzu claims its new MU-X is particularly practical as well: there is a multitude of storage compartments located strategically around the cabin, including dual glove boxes, an upper dash storage binnacle and cup holders for all three rows of seats.

Safety tech

The new Isuzu is equipped with all-disc ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) and Emergency Brake Assist (EBA). Electronic Stability Control (ESC) helps the driver maintain control of the vehicle, while the Traction Control System (TCS) prevents wheel spin and slippage. Hill Start Assist (HSA) provides an electronic brake control that automatically engages to prevent vehicle rolling back. There's also Hill Descent Control (HDC) which can be engaged in low-range mode.

Six airbags are included in the list of standard passive safety features: there are dual front, side and full-length curtain airbags, linked to front seat pre-tensioner seatbelts. The front bucket-type seats are designed to prevent whiplash in a rear impact, while adjustable headrests are provided for all seven seats.

Customisation options

Isuzu SA says its new MU-X can be personalised with an array of accessories specifically designed for the newcomer. There's the choice of an additional storage box is available for the mu-X located beneath the luggage area floor. This unit has three useful compartments to safely place items out of sight. A tow bar is also an option worth considering as is the stainless-steel nudge bar. A bonnet guard and scuff plate at the rear can also be specified.

Isuzu MU-X Price in South Africa

Accordingly, the Isuzu mu-X comes standard with Isuzu Complete Care, comprising a five-year/120 000km bumper-to-bumper warranty and Isuzu Roadside Assistance, a five-year/unlimited km anti-corrosion warranty and a five-year/90 000km Service Plan. Service intervals are every 15 000km/12 months. Extended cover can also be purchased for Roadside Assistance, Service Plans and Maintenance Plans

Isuzu MU-X 3.0 4X2 AT6 R 568 000
Isuzu MU-X 3.0 4x4 AT6 R 629 100

https://www.cars.co.za/motoring_news/isuzu-mu-x-2018-specs--price/44986/
 
DRIVEN: ISUZU MU-X 3,0 4×4 AT

CLARENS, Free State – While the first Isuzu-badged pick-up was produced in South Africa back in 1978, and the latest iteration of the KB continues to sell well on local shores, the Isuzu Frontier from the 1990s is still one of the brand’s recognisable products, with many still going strong on our roads today. Now, however, we have the new Isuzu MU-X, with the moniker standing for “multi-utility crossover”.

With the exit of General Motors from the South African market at the end of 2017 (along with the Chevrolet brand and the Trailblazer with which this MU-X shares some components), Isuzu SA became wholly owned by the parent company in Japan. Interestingly, though, the MU-X is imported from Isuzu’s factory in Thailand, rather than built locally alongside the KB.

Styling is distinctly Isuzu, with a strong front treatment, a fair deal of chrome and bi-LED headlamps. The rear is also neat enough. Only from the rear-quarter view does the design seem to lose the plot somewhat.

At the heart of the MU-X is the familiar and highly regarded 3,0-litre turbodiesel engine from the KB series. As with KB, this unit produces 130 kW and 380 N.m of torque. The local range comprises just two models: a rear-driven derivative and a 4×4 variant, both with automatic transmissions as standard. The 4×4 model boasts selectable drive so grunt can be directed to just the rear wheels or all four wheels, the latter including low range. The gearbox has six forward ratios and both versions use 18-inch wheels.

With a power output of 130 kW and a body mass of nearly 2,1 tonnes, acceleration in the Isuzu MU-X is not particularly brisk. There is minimal turbo and torque converter lag, but the resulting slow gear shifts are at least very smooth. Sequential shifting using the gear lever is possible, but the engine management system will decide if your revs are suitable for a gear swop and block you if not.

Unlike the Frontier, this is a proper SUV designed for the purpose of transporting seven occupants in comfort. The rearmost seats are suitable for adults and fold flat into the floor to create a huge luggage space. Upholstery comes in the form of good quality black leather with white stitching, and the steering wheel is also trimmed in this material.

A 6,5-inch touchscreen comes standard, although there is the option of specifying a larger, nine-inch version (both systems, however, include sat-nav and a reversing camera). A neat addition to the infotainment setup is a second USB port in the back of the centre armrest, catering for rear passengers. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality is also included.

While the MU-X doesn’t boast particularly modern mechanicals (or all the latest bells and whistles) in the form of its 3,0-litre engine, many pundits prefer older designs that have proved their reliability over the years. Whereas some Toyota Fortuner and Mitsubishi Pajero Sport derivatives use newer, smaller-capacity engines that have yet to prove their extended service credentials, it’s worth noting that the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado still uses the virtually unburstable 3,0-litre D-4D engine.

We completed a serious, mountainous 4×4 route near Clarens and the ease with which all the MU-X coped with the rocks, mud and steep slopes was impressive. In addition, the relative comfort despite the exuberant boulder-hopping suggests that the suspension has been cleverly tuned to make light work of poor conditions.

Switching from 2H to 4H to 4L is via the usual console-mounted switch, while the ground clearance is excellent at 230 mm. Furthermore, extended wheel articulation and five-link independent rear suspension means that the wheels are almost always in contact with the ground. Electronic stability control, hill descent control and trailer sway control are standard, but take note that there is no selectable rear differential lock (although a similar effect is achieved using the braking system).

On tarmac, you might expect a floaty ride, but we didn’t notice any problems here. The MU-X is simply a pleasure to drive, featuring something similar to the good ride that the KBs are known for, just a bit softer as befits an SUV that does not need to load up a tonne of goods behind. That said, should you need to move plenty of heavy things, you’ll be glad to hear that the towing capacity is a full 3 000 kg.

There is minimal wind- or road noise in the cabin, although the engine is not quite as quiet as the latest diesels. Fuel consumption is a claimed 7,9 L/100 km, so an everyday index of just under 10 L/100 km can be expected.

Safety features, apart from all the usual suite of electronics, include six airbags and Isofix seat anchors. Some convenience features found on competitors (such as an auto-dipping rear-view mirror, automatic headlamps and rain-sensing wipers) may be missing here, but these are often a matter of personal preference anyway.

The Isuzu MU-X’s main rivals? Those would be the Ford Everest and the aforementioned Fortuner and Pajero Sport. If you’re in the market for a bakkie-based seven-seater SUV, I’d suggest you include this newcomer on your short list due to the Isuzu heritage and record of reliability. Dealer support should be strong, too, as the company has a solid reputation throughout the continent. A five-year/90 000 km service plan (with intervals of 15 000 km) is included in the price along with a five-year/120 000 km warranty.

Years ago, the Opel Rekord was nicknamed the poor man’s BMW. Could the Isuzu MU-X be the poor man’s Prado? Based on these first impressions, I’d say so … and that’s by no means a slight.

Model:Isuzu MU-X 3,0 4x4 AT
Price:R629 100
Engine:3,0-litre turbodiesel
Power:130 kW
Torque:380 N.m
0-100 km/h:na
Top Speed:na
Fuel Consumption:7,9
CO2:208
Transmission:6-speed automatic
Maintenance Plan:5-year/90 000 km service plan

http://www.carmag.co.za/car-reviews/driven-isuzu-mu-x-30-4x4-at/
 
[video=youtube;iWedr-erFEU]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iWedr-erFEU[/video]
 
I saw the MU_X in the flesh, not knowing at the time that it was replacing the Trailblazer. It's Isuzu DNA was clear though and I think that it's a much worthier contestant that the Trailblazer.
 
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