Isuzu MU-X RF20) (facelift 2017 3.0d (177 Hp) 4x4 Automatic


Overall Rating

8 / 10
Safety N/A / 5
Not Rated
Engine 4.0 / 5
Value 4.0 / 5
Performance 3.5 / 5
Comfort 3.5 / 5
People\'s Opinion N/A / 5
Not Rated

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 (~9.7 l/100km). At around 2124 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 Automatic Verdict:

Rating 4 stars

Performance Verdict

Paired with an automatic transmission, the 3.0d (177 Hp) engine delivers smooth and effortless power. The torque remains strong, making it comfortable for city driving, highway cruising, and tackling challenging terrain without constant gear changes.

Fuel Economy

The automatic variant maintains good fuel efficiency for its class, with a combined consumption of 7.9-8.1 l/100 km. The slight increase over the manual is typical but still competitive for a powerful 4x4 SUV.

Best Use Case: Daily Commuting / Highway Cruising / Family Trips

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 Automatic
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:9.5-9.9 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:6.8-7.1 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined:7.9-8.1 l/100 km
Emission standard:Euro 5
Weight-to-power ratio:11.8 kg/Hp, 84.6 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:4.9 kg/Nm, 205.5 Nm/tonne
Space:
Kerb Weight:2092-2157
Max. weight:2750
Max load:593-658
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:18.7-19.5°
Length:4825 mm mm [175mm less]
Width:1860 mm mm [290mm less]
Height:1825-1860 mm mm [275mm 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):220-230 mm
Minimum turning circle (turning diameter):11.6 m [above average]
Approach angle:23.3-24.0°
Departure angle:24.6-25.1°
Powertrain:
Drive wheelAll wheel drive (4x4)
Number of gears6
Transmission typeAutomatic
Gearbox typeRev-Tronic
Front brakesVentilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.]
Rear brakesDisc [above average]
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Power steeringElectric Steering
Tires size245/70 R16; 255/60 R18
Wheel rims size7J x 16; 7J x 18
Front suspensionDouble wishbone
Rear suspensionIndependent multi-link suspension

If you could change one thing about the Isuzu MU-X, what would it be?