Isuzu MU-X 2021: five-star ANCAP crash rating for large SUV

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Isuzu’s new-generation MU-X off-roader has scored well in all four areas of the independent ANCAP safety tests and has been awarded five-stars. 

The MU-X was subject to a frontal offset test which revealed a slightly better Adult Occupant Protections score of 87 percent, four percent better than the same test conducted for the D-MAX ute. 

The MU-X had “improved protection offered to the chest and upper legs of the driver and chest and lower legs of the front passenger.”

Protection for the second row occupants was poorer than the D-MAX, however the MU-X still scored well within the 5-star category. 

For child occupant safety, the car scored 85 percent, along with 69 percent for vulnerable road user protection and 84 percent for safety assist. 

The MU-X is equipped with a full suite of airbags as standard including central, driver knee, dual frontal, side chest and curtain airbags that extend to the third row. 

Autonomous emergency braking is standard on the model, along with lane keep assist, lane departure warning, emergency lane keeping and speed assistance. 

The previous generation MU-X went without these advanced safety systems, so an update to this area is a welcome change and puts the MU-X more in line with its competitors. 

The MU-X was last tested by ANCAP back in 2013 and also scored a five-star rating – despite lacking several now standard autonomous driving features. 

“The MU-X takes advantage of the safety features already demonstrated in the D-MAX, and its pleasing to see this strong performance carried over into the Large SUV segment,” said ANCAP chief executive officer, Carla Hoorweg.

“Safety is a must for those in the market for a seven-seat family vehicle, and the MU-X provides a safe choice for active families.”

All Isuzu MU-Xs feature the 4JJ3 3.0-litre turbo diesel four-cylinder engine also found in the D-MAX. The engine produces 140kW of power and 400Nm of torque. All MU-Xs are automatic.

Much like the D-MAX, the MU-X is available in both 4×4 and 4×2 configurations. LS-M, LS-U and LS-T model variants are available with both drivetrain options.

The range begins with the LS-M which includes a 7-inch display with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, 17-inch wheels, push button start and an electric park brake. As mentioned earlier, all models come standard with a new array of safety features such as AEB, lane departure warning and lane keep assist.

Stepping up to the LS-U model, owners get a bigger 9-inch display with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, larger 18-inch wheels, a power tailgate and dual-zone climate control.

The top of the range LS-T features 20-inch alloy wheels, heated front leather seats and remote engine start.