The current Isuzu MU-X is a seven-seat SUV based on the second-generation D-Max pick-up truck, and it has been around for nearly seven years now. With the third-generation D-Max revealing itself last year, it is largely expected that an all-new MU-X is in the works as well.
The Japanese automaker has been pretty quiet about whether it will release a second-generation MU-X, but it looks like that’s exactly what’s coming. This is based on patent images of the redesigned seven-seater that were posted by the Japan Patent Office, as discovered by Autoweek.
Like its predecessor, the new MU-X will share quite a lot in common with the D-Max, including the front doors, bonnet and front fenders. However, there are some noticeable differences at the front, as the MU-X appears to sport slimmer headlamps, while the standalone framed grille, which features “fanged” slats, is smaller in size when compared to the pick-up.
The front bumper also has more subtle-looking fog lamp sections tucked into the corners, with other cues being a separated lower intake and skid plate. Progressing further rearwards, the glasshouse of the new model also looks more cohesive compared to the current MU-X, without oversized C-pillars to break the new and continuous window line.
This change sees the D-pillars carrying the main body colour rather than being part of the previous model’s wraparound rear window, complemented by a rising beltline and pronounced haunches. Furthermore, the MU-X-specific doors also sees a character line that rises over the rear door handles, with it originating from the front fenders and running through the front door handles.
At the rear, you’ll still find two-piece taillights – albeit sleeker in shape – and a number plate recess that has been pushed downwards to the base of the tailgate. Meanwhile, large reflector/fog lamp sections occupy the lower rear apron, along with a contrasting trim piece. No details about the interior for now.
Given its roots, the MU-X should ride on the same ladder-frame chassis as the D-Max, but with some modifications to make it a little more road-biased. The engine line-up is likely to be shared too, with a selection of diesel engines coupled to automatic or manual transmissions. We’ll only get more details when Isuzu decides to reveal more in the future.
GALLERY: 2017 Isuzu MU-X facelift (China market)
GALLERY: 2017 Isuzu MU-X facelift (Malaysian market)
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isuzu to make cars in japan again?
Isuzu better up their game with new MUX, the competition have went up leaps and bounds as seen in Proton X70.
Yes and No.
The MUX and X70 are 2 different breed of SUV.
To be exact X70 is an SUV plus it does not have 3rd row seat, MUX is a capable 4×4 which can carry 7 and built on a truck chassis.
MUX exist for those wanting a 7 seater which is also a capable offroader. Its never meant to be a premium SUV though a little bling or tech would be nice. They are used to designing dreadful truck interior that it flows down to their normal vehicle. They are changing it on the latest DMax which is nice.
People whom just need SUV body just need a normal SUV with no 4×4 capability like the 2wd Pajero sport.
The plus point of these modern diesel 4×4 is their fc. Its better than petrol on nornal driving and even much2 better when carrying loads.
Nowadays SUV cars are dedicated tarmac runners, 4×4 isn’t something necessary in fact its no longer welcomed as seen from Proton stopping production of X70 AWD version. SUV buyers today value the looks and interior more than 4×4/AWD capability and for something that cost so much, many would be put off by the pickup truck inspired spartan and boring interior as seen from the previous MUX generation. Many of such truck derivatives have moved up their game, take the current Fortuner for example. The new MUX better come out looking like today’s SUV rather than a pickup or else it would die silently.
I would buy if they even bother bringing in 3.0 blue power diesel
That engine is excellent for EURO 5 DIESEL
somehow i think the MU-X Is inspired by BT-50 design elements, both inside out