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• The all-new Isuzu mu-X was launched in South Africa in 2021's second half.
• We list the top mu-X model's three direct rivals.
• The mu-X Onyx 4x4 is priced at R860 500.
• For more motoring stories, visit Wheels24
After what seemed like an eternity, Isuzu finally launched its all-new mu-X in South Africa. Built at the Japanese automaker's plant in Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) in the Eastern Cape, the SUV is ready to tackle the local market and have a slice of the pie the Toyota Fortuner so thoroughly enjoys.
When it launched here in the second half of 2021, four models made up the line-up, with the headlining Onyx 4x4 model showing off the very best of Isuzu's production prowess. Powered by an altered version of the familiar 3.0-litre turbodiesel engine, the new mu-X family is vastly different to the model it replaced - both inside and out. And while it still makes use of a six-speed automatic transmission, power has been increased to 140kW and 450Nm. The mu-X is fitted with a part-time all-wheel drive system.
According to Isuzu, the new mu-X has an average fuel economy of 7.6-litres, allowing for a driving range of 1 053km on its 80 litre fuel tank. A five-year or 90 000km service plan and a five-year or 120 000km warranty is included in the price. The new mu-X line-up is priced between R693 800 and R860 500.
Focusing on the Onyx model, we list the SUV's three direct rivals.
Toyota Fortuner 2.8 GD-6 VX 4x4
The Fortuner is the undoubted SUV king in South Africa and one of several Toyota vehicles ruling its segment. It is the one vehicle many an automaker, including Isuzu, wants to overthrow, but the task at hand is easier said than done. Like the mu-X, the Fortuner is also built in South Africa and comes standard with the South Africans' trust in the Toyota badge. This headlining Fortuner model is priced at R845 500 and comes standard with a nine-services or 90 000km service plan and a three-year or 100 000km warranty.
READ: RoadTrip | A prancing horse? Tracing the roots to Toyota's first emblem in the new Fortuner
The Fortuner line-up is powered by two turbodiesel engines: a 2.4-litre and a 2.8. Power for the 2.8 GD-6 comes in at 150kW/500Nm, and a six-speed automatic transmission sends power to the road. Like the mu-X Onyx, the Fortuner is fitted with a part-time AWD system. Toyota claims a fuel return of 7.9-litres/100km, giving it a driving range of 1 013km on its 80L fuel tank.
Ford Everest 2.0 Bi-Turbo 4WD Limited
The 4WD Limited is the headlining model in Ford's Everest range and is powered by the Blue Oval's 2.0-litre bi-turbo diesel engine. With 157kW and 500Nm to its disposal, the drive is effortless and comfortable. However, the torque is available in a small window: 1 500 - 2 000rpm. A 10-speed automatic transmission channels power to the road, and the Everest's AWD system is permanently engaged - unlike the part-time systems of the listed vehicles.
Ford claims a fuel return of 7.6-litres/100km for the bi-turbo Everest, allowing a driving range of 1 053km on its 80L fuel tank.
READ: DRIVEN | Ford's new Everest Sport is a product of refinement and one hot SUV
At R858 600, the headlining model in the Everest line-up is the second-most-expensive vehicle in this company and comes standard with a four-year or 120 000km warranty. Ford also announced that it would be selling all new vehicles with a service plan as an optional extra to accommodate the 'Right to Repair' in South Africa. As such, owners can add a six-year or 90 000km service plan to their purchase.
Like the Fortuner and mu-X, the Everest is also built in South Africa.
Mitsubishi Pajero Sport 2.4 DI-D 4x4 Exceed
While Mitsubishi might not be as popular in South Africa as it once was, its product offering can rival anything the market leaders are putting on the table. And it's mainly the Triton bakkie and Pajero Sport SUV that are leading the charge for this automotive brand in SA. Sadly, the Pajero Sport does not sell as many numbers as the three listed vehicles. Still, it remains a solid choice for anyone wanting a comfortable driving experience - perhaps the best of all four listed vehicles!
The range-topping Pajero Sport 2.4 DI-D 4x4 Exceed is powered by the same 2.4-litre turbodiesel engine powering the rest of the range, as well as the Triton. Power comes in at 133kW and 430Nm, but the torque kicks in at a relatively high 2 500rpm. Despite this, Mitsubishi claims a fuel return of 8.1-litres/100km, allowing for a driving range of 840km on its 68L fuel tank. Power is sent to the part-time AWD system via an eight-speed automatic transmission.
The Pajero Sport comes standard with a five-year or 90 000km service plan and a three-year or 100 000km warranty.
