Here’s everything you need to know about the 2022 Isuzu mu-X

The mid-size pick-up based SUV segment is shaking up once again as Isuzu Philippines has just launched another one of the most-awaited models in the segment, the all-new 2022 Isuzu mu-X. 

The outgoing first generation model of the Isuzu mu-X has been available in the Philippines since 2014 and served as a direct replacement to the Alterra. Many will know that the outgoing model was also based on the Chevrolet Trailblazer whose sales were already discontinued locally.

The 2022 Isuzu mu-X is completely new from the ground up. On the outside, it shares similar design cues with its D-Max pick-up truck sibling. Less is shared this time around though as the MU-X features a completely different front fascia with a sleeker and more rounded appearance. Also for 2022, the MU-X now comes with five variants with the 3.0 LS-E 4×4 as the new range-topper just like with the D-Max, while the 1.9 LS A/T is the new entry-level variant.

Starting from the 1.9 LS A/T, standard exterior equipment are Arrow Signature Bi-LED headlights with LED daytime running lights, a black and gun-metallic front grille finish, Winglet Signature LED taillights, 17-inch alloy wheels, and a rear spoiler. Moving up to the 1.9 LS-A M/T adds auto-leveling function for the headlights, a tungsten silver and chrome finish on the front grille, functional roof-rails, 18-inch two-tone alloy wheels, and body-colored side mirrors. Going for the 3.0 LS-A A/T then adds LED front and rear fog lights. Finally, going for the 3.0 LS-E 4×2 and 4×4 variants give you Auto on/off function for the headlights, power-folding side mirrors, and a power tailgate.

Inside, unsurprisingly, the 2022 Isuzu mu-X essentially shares its dashboard design and front seats with the D-Max. Unlike the D-Max however, the mu-X doesn’t get a brown interior color scheme on higher-end variants and instead gets black on all variants. 

For the interior, standard equipment starting from the 1.9 LS A/T are a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as well as built-in navigation paired to a 6-speaker audio system, an electronic parking brake with auto-hold function, and cloth seats. Going for the 1.9 LS-A M/T adds 7-inch electroluminescent type gauges and multi-information display, reverse camera, and steering wheel audio and MID controls. Moving up to the 3.0 LS-A A/T gives you fabric seats, push-button start, and dual-zone automatic climate control. Finally, going for the top-spec LS-E 4×2 and 4×4 A/T variants will give you an 8-speaker audio system, leather seats, 8-way power-adjustable driver seat, leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a 220V power socket. 

The engine choices under the hood of the 2022 Isuzu mu-X don’t come as a surprise. As expected, they’re the same as what powers the D-Max lineup. LS 4×2 A/T and LS-A 4×2 M/T variants get a 1.9-liter Inline-4 Cylinder RZ4E Turbo Diesel that produces 148 horsepower (150 PS) and 350 Nm of torque. The rest of the lineup will be powered by a 3.0-liter Inline-4 Cylinder 4JJ3-TCX Turbo Diesel that produces 187 horsepower (190 PS) and 450 Nm of torque. Both engine options are paired to a 6-speed automatic or manual transmissions depending on the variant.

As for safety, the all-new mu-X is fully equipped, at least on both LS-E variants. It has Isuzu’s Advanced Driver-Assist System (ADAS). This is a suite of driver-assist features which are Forward Collision Warning, Autonomous Emergency Braking, Turn Assist, Pedal Mis-application Mitigation, Adaptive Cruise Control, Manual Speed Limiter, Automatic High Beams, and Lane Departure Warning. Blind-spot Monitoring, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert are standard on all but the base model.

Other standard active safety features are Dual Front Airbags (7 Airbags for LS-E 4×4), Anti-Lock Braking System, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, Brake Assist, Brake Override System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control System, Hill-Start Assist, and Hill-Descent Control.

As for pricing, the 2022 Isuzu mu-X starts at Php 1,590,000 and tops out at Php 2,450,000. See the full list of 2022 Isuzu mu-X variants and their corresponding prices below:

• 1.9 LS 4×2 A/T – Php 1,590,000
• 1.9 LS-A 4×2 M/T – Php 1,770,000
• 3.0 LS-A 4×2 A/T – Php 1,900,000
• 3.0 LS-E 4×2 A/T – Php 2,100,000
• 3.0 LS-E 4×4 A/T – Php 2,450,000

September surely has been a good month for Philippine pick-up based SUV buyers, spoiled with new options such as the updated Nissan Terra, newly introduced Maxus D90, and of course, the all-new Isuzu mu-X.