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Isuzu MU-X RF20) (facelift 2017 3.0d (177 Hp) 4x4
Overall Rating
Isuzu MU-X:
The Isuzu MU-X is a mid-size SUV produced by Isuzu. It is a body-on-frame SUV based on the D-Max pickup truck, and the successor to the MU-7.
The name "MU-X" stands for "Multi Utility – eXtreme".
The predecessor to the MU-X, the Isuzu MU-7 is a D-Max-based SUV with a three-row seating arrangement. The MU-7 was released in Thailand in November 2004, being advertised as a "Sport Utility Wagon". The MU-7 has the same front fascia and chassis as the D-Max but has a covered rear end instead of a truck bed. Unlike the MU-X, the MU-7 retains the same wheelbase as the D-Max. It was only available in some markets such as Thailand, the Philippines and India. In the Philippines, this model is called the Isuzu Alterra....(Read more on Wikipedia)
RF20) (facelift 2017 Overview:
Isuzu MU-X (RF20) (facelift 2017). With 430 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. It has moderate fuel consumption (~9.55 l/100km). At around 2132 kg, it’s on the heavier side. All‑wheel drive provides excellent grip, ideal for off‑road use. A sport utility vehicle offering higher ground clearance and versatile cargo space. With seating for 7, it’s perfect for larger families.
3.0d (177 Hp) 4x4 Verdict:
Performance Verdict
The 3.0d engine provides ample torque (430 Nm) for confident acceleration, towing, and off-road excursions. While 177 Hp isn't class-leading, it's well-suited for the MU-X's rugged character, offering dependable power delivery through the manual transmission.
Fuel Economy
With a combined fuel consumption of 7.9 l/100 km, this manual diesel variant offers respectable economy for a large 4x4 SUV, balancing power with efficiency for long journeys and daily driving.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Exceptional reliability and durability from the 4JJ1-TC diesel engine.
- • Strong towing capacity (3000 kg) and genuine off-road capability.
- • Spacious 7-seater interior with practical cargo space.
- • Good fuel economy for a large SUV.
- • Robust ladder-frame chassis provides a solid feel.
Cons:
- • Ride comfort can be firm due to its body-on-frame construction.
- • Interior design and materials are functional rather than luxurious.
- • Performance, while adequate, is not exhilarating.
- • Steering can feel heavy at low speeds.
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(Concept X: 2018 - 2020).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | Isuzu |
| Model: | MU-X |
| Generation: | RF20) (facelift 2017 |
| Modification (Engine): | 3.0d (177 Hp) 4x4 |
| Start of production: | February, 2017 |
| End of production: | October, 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | SUV |
| Seats: | 7 |
| Doors: | 5 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Engine systems: | Particulate filter |
| Power: | 177 Hp @ 3600 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 59 Hp/l [175mm less] |
| Torque: | 430 Nm @ 2000-2200 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | 4JJ1-TC More details about the engine 4JJ1-TC |
| Engine displacement: | 2999 |
| Number of cylinders: | 4 |
| Engine configuration: | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder: | 4 |
| Fuel injection system: | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration: | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain: | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity: | 6.9 l |
| Coolant: | 11.1 l |
| Cylinder Bore: | 95.4 mm mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 104.9 mm mm |
| Compression ratio: | 16.3:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Diesel |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - urban: | 9.5-9.6 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban: | 6.8-7.0 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - combined: | 7.9 l/100 km |
| Emission standard: | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 12 kg/Hp, 83.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 4.9 kg/Nm, 202.6 Nm/tonne |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 2122-2142 |
| Max. weight: | 2750 |
| Max load: | 608-628 |
| Trunk (boot) space - maximum: | 1830 l |
| Trunk (boot) space - minimum: | 235 l |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%): | 3000 kg |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 65 l |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes: | 750 kg |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle: | 19.5° |
| Length: | 4825 mm mm [175mm less] |
| Width: | 1860 mm mm [290mm less] |
| Height: | 1860 mm mm [240mm less] |
| Wheelbase: | 2845 mm mm |
| Front track: | 1570 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1570 mm |
| Front overhang: | 905 mm |
| Rear overhang: | 1075 mm |
| Ride height (ground clearance): | 230 mm |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter): | 11.6 m [above average] |
| Approach angle: | 24.0° |
| Departure angle: | 25.1° |
| Powertrain: | |
|---|---|
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4x4) |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Transmission type | Manual |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.] |
| Rear brakes | Disc [above average] |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 245/70 R16; 255/60 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 16; 7J x 18 |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
Behind the wheel of the Isuzu MU-X. How does it handle on the road?