Isuzu MU-X range could soon be bolstered by hardcore Blade off-roader and hybrid variants

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Isuzu has stopped short of locking in a hardcore Blade version of its facelifted MY25 MU-X large SUV, but confirmed: “We are planning something.”

An MU-X Blade would rival the Ford Everest Tremor as a more off-road specified and focussed large 4×4, in line with Isuzu’s purposeful D-Max Blade which launched late in 2024.

The D-Max and MU-X share underpinnings and powertrains, so a Walkinshaw Automotive-fettled MU-X Blade looks an obvious next step.

If an MU-X Blade arrived, it would likely feature similar equipment to the D-Max variant, including lifted suspension, bespoke Monroe damping, improved underbody protection, dual 8000kg recovery points, all-terrain tyres, improved ground clearance and a wider track.

Isuzu Ute Australia’s deputy general manager, Sadanori Sugita, said: “We’re carefully monitoring the market situation and customer requirement at this point in time,” before hinting the brand had something unconfirmed in its plans.

Development process for the D-Max Blade took three years, so converting the just-launched facelifted MU-X to Blade trim would be no short process. But it could well have been in the works alongside its ute cousin.

The D-Max Blade costs $76,990 drive-away, so an MU-X Blade version would likely arrive around the $80k drive-away mark, making it the priciest Isuzu sold in this country, and near lineball with the Ford Everest Tremor rival ($76,590 plus on-roads).

In 2024, Isuzu’s MU-X was second only to the Ford Everest in the crowded large SUV (under $80,000) segment, ahead of the Subaru Outback, Toyota Kluger and Toyota Prado.

Cleaner engines to meet emissions standards

Isuzu is a sales success story in Australia, despite offering only two models: the D-Max ute and MU-X large SUV.

These play in our top-selling segments – SUVs and commercial vehicles – but as a brand, Isuzu is under extreme pressure due to Australia’s New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES), aimed at reducing CO2.

For brands not meeting targets introduced this year, harsh fines will be levied.

Isuzu’s two models exclusively use diesel engines, and currently lack powertrains such as hybrids, plug-in hybrids and battery electric vehicles which would help the brand meet efficiency compliance targets.

In March last year Isuzu confirmed an electric D-Max BEV ute was coming for right-hand drive markets, including Australia, and could go on sale as early as later this year.

Its twin electric motors produce 130kW/325Nm, and Isuzu assured it would retain its utility with a 3500kg tow rating and payload up to 1000kg, although no electric range or potential price were quoted. 

Isuzu’s executive general manager of sales, Ben Jaeger, said the brand was “committed to providing alternative powertrains; to provide a vehicle that can meet those very strict (emissions) targets.”

“While we’re working on solutions, it’s important for us to make sure these solutions are fit for purpose and meet exactly what our customers need. You don’t want to bring something to market that isn’t going to sell; that just ticks the box.”

Indeed. But financial penalties for failing to meet NVES targets could force Isuzu’s hand, especially to avoid such additional costs being passed on to Australian customers.

So what are the options? Isuzu Australia’s team was asked about the D-Max EV and, from Isuzu’s global models, its 2.2L turbo-diesel and a 1.9L mild hybrid offered in Thailand.

Nothing could be confirmed, but there was acknowledgement that electrification was something the brand would need going forward.

“NVES is actually very challenging for us, but we believe the government direction is the right direction to go, considering the environment,” said Sadanori Sugita.

“It’s a very tough, challenging target for us. We’re trying our best to comply with the regulation to meet the target as much as possible.”

The launch of the BYD Shark 6 PHEV, GWM Cannon Alpha Hybrid and soon-arriving Ford Ranger PHEV highlight the rapid move to electrified utes to combat NVES regulations.

Ute-based SUVs, such as the MU-X, following suit appears a natural progression.

Despite the NVES challenges, Isuzu confirmed its commitment to selling vehicles in Australia.