Beauty and brakes form the backbone of upgrades to the Isuzu mu-X SUV with styling tweaks and the addition of a Brake Override System (BOS).

“The launch of the mu-X in 2018 revived Isuzu’s proud legacy in the SUV segment and the updated model for 2020 brings fresh design updates and improved safety to this accomplished and versatile seven-seater,” says Dominic Rimmer, Executive, Technical Services at Isuzu Motors South Africa (IMSA).

The front of the mu-X features a bolder radiator grille design, complemented by a restyled front bumper incorporating colour coding for the upper section and a contrasting gloss black finish for the lower portion, as well as for the fog lamp bezels.

Another change are the 18-inch gloss black diamond-cut alloy wheels, while the rear gains a colour-coded upper section for the rear bumper, gloss back treatment for the lower trim, two-tone silver and black roof rails, as well as new tail light clusters with a combination of chrome and gloss black finishes.

Piano black finishes have been adopted for the door switch bezels and trim panels, gear shift surround as well as the centre stack for the infotainment system and climate control.

Additionally, the switches located on the leather-trimmed steering wheel for the audio system, phone functions and cruise control are picked out in black with a silver garnish, while ambient lighting has been introduced in the door trims.

As a reminder, standard features include central locking with keyless entry and start, touch sensor opening and push-button locking functions on the door handles. A multitude of storage compartments are strategically located around the cabin, including dual glove boxes, an upper dash storage binnacle and cup holders for all three rows of seats. The rear-facing camera is linked to the infotainment display to ease parking and reverse manoeuvres, with audible sensors for the rear park assist system.

Vehicle security is taken care of with the factory-fitted immobiliser and alarm system which is a standard fitment.

On the safety front, a new addition to the mu-X is the Brake Override System, derived from the D-MAX. The system is linked to the anti-lcok braking system and restricts accelerator input if the brakes are applied at the same time – reducing the vehicle’s stopping distance in an emergency.

This new feature complements the range of active safety features including Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) and Emergency Brake Assist (EBA), along with Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS), Hill Start Assist (HSA) and Hill Descent Control (HDC) which can be engaged in low range 4×4 mode.

The mu-X is powered by Isuzu’s 3,0-litre four-cylinder intercooled turbo-diesel engine that produces 130 kW of power and 380 Nm of torque. It is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, which includes a sequential sport mode.

A three-tonne towing capacity makes the mu-X a great choice for pulling trailers and boats, in keeping with its adventurous, lifestyle-oriented customer profile.

The Isuzu mu-X comes standard with Isuzu Complete Care, comprising a 5-year/120 000 km bumper-to-bumper warranty and Isuzu Roadside Assistance, a 5-year/unlimited km anti-corrosion warranty and a 5-year/90 000 km Service Plan. Service intervals are every 15 000 km/12 months.

Extended cover can also be purchased for Roadside Assistance, Service Plans and Maintenance Plans through Isuzu Mobility.