Last month on Autoworld.co.za, we featured the new Isuzu MU-X 3.0 4x2 6-speed automatic for our road test. Following back on this, we feature today the top of the range model, the Isuzu MU-X 4x4 All-Wheel Drive 6-speed automatic. Built on the same platform as the popular Isuzu KB range, the MU-X, although new to South Africa, has already established a name for itself, being sold in several international markets, after being launched in Thailand in 2013.

The styling of the MU-X embodies the familiar DNA of the Isuzu brand. LED daytime running lights, and Bi-LED projector headlamps with auto-levelling functionality, is standard on both models. From its macho chrome grille to its high stance, rugged looks, its aluminum side-steps, privacy glass and LED rear combination lamps, plus the large 12-spoke alloy wheels, which on the test vehicle were shod with Bridgestone Dueller 255/60R18 tyres, the exterior looks every bit the off-road vehicle. And there’s a full-sized spare.

The MU-X is powered by Isuzu's proven 3.0-litre four-cylinder intercooled common rail turbo-diesel engine, producing 130 kW of power at 3 600 RPM and 380 Nm of torque from 2 000 to 2 200 RPM, and sends power to the rear wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission, which also boasts a sequential sport mode. An impressive three-ton towing capacity makes it a good choice for towing trailers or caravans.

In performance tests, leaving the automatic in “D” mode to do its own changing, the MU-X pulled smartly off the line and did the 0 to 100 km/h dash in 11.8 seconds after two gear changes and has a top speed of about 180 km/h. Combined fuel consumption is given as 8.8 litres/100 km which is a bit optimistic, as the trip recorder gave me a reading of 10.5 litres/100 kms, but that did include all the testing.

Moving inside, Isuzu's new MU-X SUV offers practicality with comfort and luxury, and is roomy enough for seven. The seven-seat configuration has the two front bucket seats, the second row is a 60/40 split-fold with a fold-away center armrest, factory fitted immobilizer and alarm system is standard fitment. There is 235 litres of boot space when the third row is up, expanding to 878 litres when the 50/50 split-fold third row is folded flat. When the second and third rows are down, there is 1 830 litres of space. There’s no push button in the cab to open the rear tailgate, so to access the boot, it must be done manually. The electronic climate control system caters for front and rear occupants - the latter having access to their own cooling vents for added comfort. A multi-function infotainment unit is a stand-out feature of the MU-X, boasting a nine-inch colour touch-screen display that provides access to the imbedded satellite navigation, audio and communication systems that includes a DVD and MP3-compatible CD player, Bluetooth connectivity and audio streaming, as well as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality. Front and rear USB slots are provided, in conjunction with an auxiliary iPod input and HDMI port. Leather trim is standard for the seats, with the driver's seat offering six-way electric adjustment. The leather-covered steering wheel contains the fingertip controls for the audio, phone functions and the cruise control. It is adjustable for rake but not for reach.

Convenience items include; the keyless entry and push button start system, along with touch-sensor opening and push-button locking functions on the door handles. As expected of a leisure-oriented SUV, several storage compartments are in the cabin including; 12 cup-holders, door compartments with bottle bulge, rear cargo organizer box, USB ports front and rear, three 12V power outlets and two cubby holes – one under the other.

Safety features for the Isuzu MU-X include; ABS brakes with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution and Emergency Brake Assist. This is complemented by Electronic Stability Control Traction Control System, and Hill Descent Control. Passive safety equipment includes; dual front, side and full-length curtain airbags, linked to front seat pre-tensioner seatbelts, plus a high-tensile steel passenger safety cell for strength and rigidity. A rear-facing camera aids reversing and parking via the nine-inch full colour display, but no rear parking sensors, unless you order them off the options list. From behind the wheel, the seats are comfortable, and the driver sits high with a good view of the road ahead, making visibility good in all directions while driver controls and instruments are intuitive, as is the touch-screen and its phone, audio and GPS systems.

On the highway, the Isuzu MU-X SUV travels quite relaxed registering just 2 200 RPM at a steady 120 km/h, and if you need a quick burst of speed to overtake, I found it better to use the manual shift mode for a quick burst to overtake quickly, and the suspension with double wishbones and coil springs up front, and coil springs at the rear, maintain ride comfort levels over good and bad road surfaces. There is some body roll in fast cornering, and a little understeer when pushing on, but the road-holding is well contained, and the power steering is very accurate, even at high speeds. There is a bit of wind noise at highway speeds but it’s not intrusive.

Around the town, low-speed steering is a little heavy, but the 11.6m turning circle is excellent for a vehicle with a 2.8m wheelbase when trying to maneuver in tight places. I took the Isuzu to my usual off-road testing ground and must say that with its 230mm ground clearance, automatic transmission - manual shift mode - and 4-wheel drive, there are not many SUVs that will beat the Isuzu MU-X in the rough. There’s a simple Terrain Control dial on the center console offering Two Wheel Drive, Four High and Four Low, and that switch between Two and Four High can be done at speeds up to 100 km/h. On normal gravel roads, the ride itself is excellent and the MU-X’s coil-over-shock arrangement soaks up road imperfections nicely.

The recommended retail selling price for the Isuzu MU-X 3.0 4X2 6-speed automatic is R 629 100, which includes the Isuzu Complete Care, comprising a five-year/120 000 km bumper-to-bumper warranty and Isuzu Roadside Assistance, a five-year/unlimited km anti-corrosion warranty and a five-year/90 000 km Service Plan. Service intervals are every 15 000 km/12 months.