GQEBERHA – ISUZU Motors South Africa has taken a bold step forward with the launch of the updated 2025 MU-X, a model that blends family-friendly practicality with bold styling and robust off-road capability. The updated range offers more than just a fresh face—it delivers meaningful upgrades in design, technology, safety, and performance. Topping the line-up is the introduction of the new MU-X ONYX XT, an ultra-premium 3.0-litre 4×4 model that commands attention both on and off the road.
From the outset, the MU-X has built its reputation on durability, dependability, and refinement. Now, the MY25 MU-X deepens those credentials with enhancements that raise the bar in the highly competitive large SUV segment.
Bold New Look with Refined Attitude
The exterior of the MY25 MU-X gets a significant makeover that signals its premium positioning. Up front, a redesigned bumper, aggressive new grille, restyled ISUZU badging, and sleek bi-beam LED headlamps create a bolder and more contemporary face. The LED daytime running lights and repositioned fog lamps add a modern touch while improving visibility in all conditions.
At the rear, the changes continue with a reimagined bumper, an updated tailgate, and a sportier mid-level spoiler. Distinctive new combination LED taillights, linked by a sculpted tailgate garnish, reinforce the MU-X’s athletic proportions.
Buyers have more visual flair to choose from, thanks to new colour options like Eiger Grey Metallic and Biarritz Blue, bringing the total palette to eight. Meanwhile, striking new alloy wheel designs complete the refreshed look—18-inch multi-spoke wheels for LS and LSE models and exclusive 20-inch alloys for the ONYX XT.
Interior Sophistication Meets Digital Intelligence
Step inside, and the updated cabin reveals a space designed for elevated comfort and intuitive technology. New door and armrest colours, a redesigned dashboard, and refined leather upholstery patterns create a sense of understated luxury. The seats, in particular, deliver both visual appeal and long-distance comfort.
The centrepiece of the cabin is a new nine-inch infotainment system finished in piano black, now more user-friendly with rotary dials and capacitive buttons. Both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, with USB and wireless Bluetooth connectivity options ensuring seamless digital integration.
Upper-spec models—LSE and ONYX XT—now feature a 360-degree Surround View Monitor that stitches together images from four cameras to create a real-time bird’s eye view of the vehicle. A standout feature is the underfloor view, which helps drivers navigate tight urban spots and rugged trails alike with pinpoint accuracy.
Driver-Focused Enhancements and Practical Touches
The driver’s display cluster has been reimagined to reflect the MU-X’s modern character. A new seven-inch multi-information display features vibrant electroluminescent colours, gold highlights, and a redesigned binnacle. This is paired with traditional analogue dials and a digital temperature gauge, striking a balance between familiarity and innovation.
Other thoughtful touches include a customisable welcome lighting function, which gently illuminates the surroundings when the vehicle is unlocked. Larger-diameter shock absorbers have been fitted across the range, offering a smoother ride and better composure in both urban and off-road settings.
Meet the ONYX XT: The New Pinnacle of the MU-X Range
At the top of the line-up is the ONYX XT, a premium 3.0-litre 4×4 variant that combines luxury appointments with a bold, sporty persona. Finished with gloss black detailing, Light Magnetite accents, and unique XT badging, this range-topper makes a distinct statement.
Its bespoke 20-inch gloss black alloy wheels feature a smoky clear coating, while the colour palette is refined to four exclusive hues: Dolomite White Pearl, Eiger Grey Metallic, Mercury Silver Metallic, and Onyx Black Mica.
Inside, the ONYX XT sets itself apart with red ambient lighting, white footwell illumination, and leather seats with red contrast stitching. The steering wheel receives a piano black and metallic treatment, while additional USB Type-C ports have been introduced for rear passengers, reinforcing the ONYX XT’s focus on modern luxury and connectivity.
Tried and Trusted Powertrains with Refined Delivery
The MU-X continues to offer two reliable and efficient turbodiesel options:
- 1.9-litre Ddi: Produces 110 kW and 350 Nm, offering strong economy with a fuel consumption of 7.0 L/100 km. Available in 4×2 LS specification.
- 3.0-litre Ddi: Delivers 140 kW and 450 Nm of torque, with smooth, responsive power across both urban and off-road conditions. Available in LS, LSE and ONYX XT trims with either 4×2 or 4×4 drivetrains.
Both engines are mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, with the 4×4 variants benefitting from a rear differential lock and low-range transfer case, underscoring the MU-X’s genuine off-road capability.
Pricing and Peace of Mind
The 2025 ISUZU MU-X offers a compelling value proposition backed by ISUZU’s well-established aftersales support:
| Model | Price (Incl. VAT) |
|---|---|
| 1.9 Ddi MU-X LS 4×2 A/T | R 752,300 |
| 3.0 Ddi MU-X LS 4×2 A/T | R 852,600 |
| 3.0 Ddi MU-X LS 4×4 A/T | R 939,500 |
| 3.0 Ddi MU-X LSE 4×2 A/T | R 886,700 |
| 3.0 Ddi MU-X LSE 4×4 A/T | R 973,700 |
| 3.0 Ddi MU-X ONYX XT 4×4 A/T | R1,026,800 |
All models are sold with a five-year/90,000 km service plan, five-year/120,000 km warranty and roadside assistance, and a five-year/unlimited distance anti-corrosion warranty. Service intervals are set at 15,000 km or 12 months.
Verdict: A Confident Step Forward for South Africa’s Favourite Adventure SUV
The 2025 ISUZU MU-X is more than just an update—it’s a confident evolution. With its redesigned styling, enhanced comfort and convenience, intelligent driver aids, and the introduction of the flagship ONYX XT, ISUZU’s premium SUV offering is better equipped than ever to take on the adventure of everyday life. Whether you’re heading into the wild or simply across town, the new MU-X is built for the journey—and for those who demand more from it.
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