Old vs. New: Isuzu Mu-X

Isuzu Philippines launched the all-new Mu-X just a few days ago. It's about time, too, as the outgoing model was nearly a decade old already. Isuzu says the redesigned Mu-X is dramatically different compared to the first-generation. But how big of a leap is it? Let's take a closer look.

How much bigger?

If you think the all-new Isuzu Mu-X looks bigger than before, that's because it really is. However, the difference isn't as massive as you might think. The outgoing model measures 4,825 mm long, 1,860 mm wide, and 1,840 mm tall with a wheelbase of 2,845 mm. Meanwhile, the 2022 model is 4,850 mm long, 1,860 mm wide, and 1,825 mm tall with a wheelbase of 2,855 mm. All in all, the 2022 Mu-X is 25 mm longer and 10mm wider. Interestingly, the roof line is 15 mm lower than before.

But the redesigned Mu-X isn't just bigger when it comes to dimensions. Isuzu also increased the fuel tank capacity. The tank can now hold 20 liters more bringing its total capacity to 80 liters. Another increase is the Mu-X's wading capabilities. The 2022 model can now swim a little deeper thanks to its 800 mm wading capacity (600 mm for the older Mu-X). Ground clearance gets a slight increase as well from 230 mm to 235 mm.

What's inside?

While the layout is the same as the D-Max, the new Mu-X's interior is a night and day difference over the older model. Not only that, the upgraded touchscreen has everything you expect from a modern SUV from clear and crisp graphics to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The new cabin is far more premium-looking and upmarket compared to the outgoing generation. There's more soft-touch materials in there, too.

As for cargo space, here are the stats. The 2022 Mu-X has 311 liters of space behind the third-row. Fold down the extra seats and it jumps to 1,119 liters. As for the maximum, it's 2,138L with the second and third rows tucked away.

Technology upgrade

Back then, having a touchscreen and Bluetooth was a big deal in the mid-size SUV class. These days, you need a lot more than that to lure in more buyers. With that, the 2022 Mu-X offers technology previously reserved for the luxury market. Aside from Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, it gets a larger digital multi-information display to bring it bang up to date.

But the Mu-X makes its biggest strides in the field of active safety. High-spec versions come standard with automatic emergency braking, turn assist, lane departure warning, 3D camera, and even adaptive cruise control just to name a few. All the features that were mentioned were never included in the previous generation. Not only that, all models come standard with traction and stability control, along with multiple airbags.

Power advantage

The 1.9-liter engine used in entry-level Mu-X models from before is carried over to the all-new model. That means power ratings for it remain unchanged for 2022 at 150 hp and 350 Nm of torque. But the highlight here is the 3.0-liter engine

Power is rated at 190 hp and 450 Nm of torque, much higher than the previous generation's output. For comparison, the previous Mu-X put out 177 hp and 380 Nm of torque. The uprated engine in the 2022 model presents a power bump of 13 horsepower and a torque increase of 70 Nm.

Price difference

Before we mention the price difference, let's take a look at the line-up. The 2022 Mu-X range starts with the 1.9 LS A/T, followed by the 1.9 LS-A M/T. Sitting right in the middle is the 3.0 LS-A 4x2 A/T with the 3.0 LS-E 4x2 A/T and 3.0 LS-E 4x4 A/T. Isuzu no longer offers a 1.9 LS-A A/T variant for the 2022 model.

And now, the prices and increase of each model:

Mu-X LS 4x2 1.9 A/T – PHP 1,590,000 (+ PHP 189,000)

Mu-X LS-A 4x2 1.9 M/T – PHP 1,770,000 (+ PHP 100,000)

Mu-X LS-A 4x2 3.0 A/T – PHP 1,900,000 (+ PHP 105,000)

Mu-X LS-E 4x2 3.0 A/T – PHP 2,100,000 (New variant)

Mu-X LS-E 4x4 3.0 A/T – PHP 2,450,000 (+ PHP 305,000 vs. LS-A 4x4)

Prices have jumped from around PHP 100,000 to PHP 300,000 with this new generation. While it looks shocking, you have to remember that the 2022 Mu-X  has an all-new design with much more technology than before. It will also take a while before you can get discounts from the dealerships as well.

But if you want to save more now there are used examples of these floating around online marketplaces. Automart.PH is no exception. We're looking at savings of over PHP 500,000 if you get yourself a lightly-used and relatively young second-hand unit. If you're interested, there are a few things you need to know before you buy a used Isuzu Mu-X that we cover in our buyer's guide.