New Mu-X Teased By Isuzu Thailand

SAUDI ARABIA : Isuzu has unveiled the first official teaser images of the significantly updated MU-X in Thailand. The current second-generation model has been on sale since 2020, with previous updates primarily involving minor cosmetic tweaks and enhancements to standard specifications. These updates were made available in South Africa in the first quarter of last year.However, the teaser clips posted on Isuzu Thailand’s Facebook and Instagram pages suggest that this round of updates is more substantial and no longer limited to a single market. While the clips don’t provide detailed information—the Isuzu Thailand website only hints that buyers should prepare to meet the high point—they do show the MU-X featuring new slimmer LED headlights, a redesigned grille, and a new trim level called RS, which sports a distinct grille of its own.

The RS trim, while not as extensively reworked as the Toyota Fortuner GR Sport, has sparked speculation that it might be an off-road specific model, akin to the Ford Everest Wildtrak. Although this remains speculative, the introduction of the updated D-Max last year could mean the RS will include the Rough Terrain mode setting and a new locking centre differential.

The interior of the MU-X is also expected to see significant updates, following the changes made to its sibling, the D-Max. A new seven-inch digital instrument cluster is likely to be featured on lower-end derivatives, alongside seven-and-nine-inch touchscreen infotainment systems with touch-sensitive switches and two physical dials on the outer edges. Other expected upgrades include wireless Apple CarPlay and improved materials throughout the cabin.

Depending on the trim level, the MU-X is likely to incorporate the same specification tweaks made to the D-Max, along with an enhanced suite of safety and driver assistance systems. While there have been rumours of a new 2.2-litre turbo diesel engine with mild-hybrid assistance, these details remain speculative, with the powertrain options likely to stay the same as those in the current MU-X and the facelifted D-Max.These options include the entry-level 1.9-litre RZ4E-TC engine producing 110 kW and 350 Nm of torque, and the 3.0-litre 4JJ3-TCX engine delivering 140 kW and 450 Nm of torque. In Thailand, the 1.9-litre engine is available with a six-speed manual gearbox under the BluePower designation, though a six-speed automatic gearbox will be standard in most export markets.

Initially priced from 1,109,000 baht at the time of unveiling, more details about the facelifted MU-X are expected to emerge in the coming weeks, including the official reveal date. These updates indicate that Isuzu is making a concerted effort to keep the MU-X competitive in the ever-evolving SUV market, particularly in terms of both style and functionality.