Next-gen Isuzu MU-X announced in Thailand

Isuzu has introduced the next generation of its MU-X body-on-frame SUV in Thailand. While the old generation shared the platform with the Chevrolet TrailBlazer, the new one is a proprietary design based on the last year’s D-Max pickup study.

The car runs on a platform known as the Isuzu Dynamic Drive, which features a more lightweight and rigid frame than the old design. Dual-wishbone per-wheel suspension stays unchanged at the front end, but the rear solid beam trades its leaf springs for coils. Longer links translate into more suspension travel than was possible before.

The off-roader itself is 4,850 mm long, 1,870 mm wide and 1,875 mm tall with 2,855 mm between the axles and 235 mm of ground clearance. The body sports various reinforcements, and the plastic tailgate may now be obtained in an electric form. The gas tank now holds up to 80 liters of fuel instead of just 65.

New luxury trims introduce the MU-X model to 20-inch wheels and LED headlights, among other things. The interior reminds of the D-Max truck, which is decidedly a good thing, considering how poorly executed the old MU-X cabin was. The top trim is the only one that unlocks such options as lane control and six airbags; all other trims make do with basic stability control and two airbags.

The car will ship in Thailand next month with an assortment of turbo diesel engines borrowed from the D-Max. One is a 1.9-liter mill good for 150 PS (148 hp / 110 kW) and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque, which supports an in-house manual gearbox design and Aisin six-speed auto. The other one is a 3.0-liter unit that produces 190 PS (187 hp / 140 kW) and 450 Nm (332 lb-ft) and can only be paired with an automatic transmission. The top spec supports AWD with a 2.48:1 reduction gear and a driving mode called Off-road, which imitates diff locks.

Isuzu will be producing the MU-X locally for Thailand.