The Isuzu mu-X is an interesting phenomenon in the 7-seater SUV segment in Vietnam. For decades, this Japanese model, along with its pickup truck sibling, the D-max, has persistently held its ground in the market, even though sales of both rarely reach the top of the segment.

Isuzu isn't renowned for its passenger cars, offering only two models. However, decades of presence in the Vietnamese market have earned it a loyal customer base who appreciate its "Truck DNA," associated with durability, fuel efficiency, and low running costs.

A unique character in the segment

Amongst competitors like the tech-laden Ford Everest, the Toyota Fortuner, and the slower-to-evolve Mitsubishi Pajero Sport, Isuzu has launched a new version of the mu-X that combines elements of both. This Japanese SUV boasts a more eye-catching exterior, a premium-oriented interior, and a host of new driver-assistance technologies. These changes aren't necessarily meant to compete directly with rivals, but rather to add value and persuade those who appreciate the brand's "Truck DNA."

2025 Isuzu mu-X exterior design. Photo: Tung Dinh

The front of the vehicle has a sporty, modern design. Photo: Tung Dinh

Bi-LED headlights, integrated turn signals, and LED daytime running lights. Photo: Tung Dinh

LED taillights with new graphics. Photo: Tung Dinh

Connected LED taillights design. Photo: Tung Dinh

Overview of the 2025 Isuzu mu-X interior. Photo: Tung Dinh

Intuitive and easy-to-use central infotainment screen. Photo: Tung Dinh

Ergonomic design at the driver's position. Photo: Tung Dinh

Second-row seating space. Photo: Tung Dinh

Entrance to the third-row seats. Photo: Tung Dinh

The "Bold & Dynamic" design language gives the mu-X's exterior a unique personality, especially with the new Eiger Gray color option. The intricately shaped front end features numerous lines, highlighted by brighter bi-LED headlights compared to the previous version, combined with LED daytime running lights and turn signals. The rear taillights have a trendy connected design. The 20-inch, 6-spoke wheels add a robust touch.

All these elements contribute to the 2025 mu-X's more appealing exterior compared to its predecessor, creating an interesting option in the 7-seater SUV segment, which doesn't offer a wide variety of choices.

Similar changes are evident in the interior, where the mu-X appeals to both drivers and families. The new Truffle Brown color scheme creates a premium feel. The meticulously designed seats feature distinct stitching patterns for the headrests, shoulder bolsters, side supports, and seat cushions. The spacious and supportive seats are key to comfortable long journeys.

Isuzu has redesigned the dashboard, steering wheel, armrest, and upper door panels of the mu-X with ergonomics in mind, allowing the driver to quickly find a comfortable driving position and easily access various functions. The user-friendly interior is further enhanced by a 9-inch infotainment screen with an intuitive interface, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, and USB-C charging ports in all rows.

Upgrades for greater convenience

The advantage of the front axle being positioned close to the front end makes the Isuzu mu-X easy to maneuver in crowded city streets. From the driver's seat, the mu-X offers good visibility, with an A-pillar designed less obtrusively than some competitors.

The mu-X 2025's cockpit is designed for practicality. Photo: Tung Dinh

In urban driving conditions, the mu-X's new 4th-generation ADAS technologies provide significant driver support. The camera's scanning angle has been widened from 40 to 120 degrees, increasing object detection range to 150 m.

Rear cross traffic alert (RCTA) and rear cross traffic braking (RCTB) assist the driver when entering or exiting tight parking spaces, providing warnings or automatically braking to prevent potential collisions.

Like other diesel vehicles, the mu-X's engine can be noisy during startup or low-speed acceleration, especially for drivers accustomed to gasoline engines. However, on the open road, the mu-X truly comes into its own.

A true off-road SUV experience

The 1.9-liter diesel engine, with a maximum output of 150 horsepower and 350 Nm of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, may seem modest on paper. However, its performance on the open road is surprisingly impressive. With a gentle press of the accelerator, the vehicle quickly reaches 80 km/h, while the diesel engine's sound remains subtle.

The Isuzu mu-X on the open road. Photo: Tung Dinh

The mu-X's off-road SUV nature makes it comfortable on challenging terrain. Photo: Tung Dinh

High approach and departure angles make it easier to overcome obstacles. Photo: Tung Dinh

The driver can monitor the vehicle's incline through the in-cabin display. Photo: Tung Dinh

The Isuzu mu-X climbs a 15-degree slope. Photo: Tung Dinh

The 1.9-liter engine provides sufficient power for adventurous drivers. Photo: Tung Dinh

While driving, the vehicle's drive system can be switched between two-wheel and four-wheel drive using a rotary knob. Photo: Tung Dinh

Rough Terrain Mode optimizes traction. Photo: Tung Dinh

Pushing the accelerator to 100 km/h, the engine responds instantly and smoothly. At this speed, the engine revs at just over 1,500 rpm. The mu-X's responsive yet composed performance reflects Isuzu's DNA, balancing engine performance and fuel efficiency. At a steady 100 km/h, the engine offers a different experience compared to its noisier city driving behavior. The primary noise sources are the A-pillar and the large side mirrors.

Driving along Thang Long Boulevard (Hanoi) is made easier by driver-assistance technologies like adaptive cruise control (ACC), lane departure warning (LDW), and blind spot monitoring. The driver can set the speed and maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead, relaxing and enjoying the warm, bass-rich sound from the audio system. One omission compared to competitors is lane keeping assist; the mu-X only provides warnings, not active lane keeping.

The Isuzu mu-X faces the challenge of rough roads and off-roading. Photo: Tung Dinh

The mu-X's true off-road capabilities, typical of a body-on-frame SUV, become apparent on rough terrain and off-road. It boasts 800 mm of water wading capability, 235 mm of ground clearance, and approach and departure angles designed for tackling challenging terrain and obstacles. The front suspension is independent with high-mounted control arms. The rear suspension features an additional lateral link to reduce sway on rough roads at higher speeds. The shock absorbers have also been improved with larger diameter bodies, along with enhanced piston and base valves.

For those who enjoy challenging terrain, the mu-X offers Rough Terrain Mode and an electronic 4WD system to control traction in extreme conditions. Driving parameters such as drive system status and surrounding terrain incline/decline are displayed on the infotainment screen, alerting the driver to the vehicle's safe limits.

The mu-X's off-road SUV nature makes it undaunted by difficult roads. Photo: Tung Dinh

With five versions available, all imported from Thailand, and prices ranging from 928 million VND to 1.269 billion VND, Isuzu Vietnam has positioned the mu-X more accessibly than its competitors in the 7-seater SUV segment. The 2025 Isuzu mu-X comes with a standard 5-year/200,000 km warranty (whichever comes first). In addition, the company's Customer Care program offers free maintenance services and a 50% discount on maintenance parts (retail price), further optimizing running costs.

2025 Isuzu mu-X review in Vietnam. Source: Trung Kien

Quang Anh