Isuzu SA has introduced key upgrades to the MU-X for 2026, headlined by a new entry-level 4×4 variant. We sampled the MU-X 1.9TD 4×4 LS at its launch event in Cape Town. First impressions here…
Image: Cale Nuttall
What are we driving?
Following its mid-2026 update – the latter introducing refreshed exterior styling, upgraded technology and safety systems, and refinements to the 1.9-litre turbodiesel powertrain, and a new flagship 3.0-litre Onyx XT 4×4 variant – Isuzu Motors South Africa has expanded the range yet again. While the inclusion of additional tech and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) is welcome, perhaps the biggest news here is the arrival of a new entry-level, LS-spec 4×4 derivative. Driven here, this model employs the Japanese automaker’s 1.9-litre, four-cylinder turbodiesel engine producing 110 kW and 350 N.m of torque. The previous entry point to 4×4 MU-X ownership came in the shape of the 3.0-litre LS variant.
What is new on the 2026 Isuzu MU-X?
In addition to the the introduction of a more affordable 4×4 derivative, subtle tech and convenience upgrades now feature on the 2026 lineup. The flagship, Onyx XT gains adaptive cruise control with an intelligent speed limiter and traffic sign recognition. USB-C ports are fitted at the front and rear, and by popular demand, Isuzu reinstated the aft 150 W 220 V power socket. “Welcome home” headlamps are now standard across all models. Standard kit in the MU-X 1.9TD 4×4 LS includes partial-leather seats (eight- and four-way power adjustable for the driver and front passenger, respectively), a 9.0-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as front and rear USB charging ports.
What does the 2026 Isuzu MU-X cost in SA?
The MU-X range is priced from 752 400 for the 1.9TD 4×2 LS to R1 032 190 for the 3.0TD 4×4 Onyx XT flagship. The newly introduced 1.9TD 4×4 LS is priced from R789 700. The latter model is R150 000 more affordable than the 3.0TD 4×4 LS, which was previously the most affordable 4×4 MU-X. Included in the price are a five-year/120 000 km warranty and six-year/90 000 km service plan.
What are the 2026 Isuzu MU-X 1.9TD 4×4 LS’s rivals?
Looking at the MU-X 1.9TD 4×4 LS’s pricing, rivals come in the form of the the GWM Tank 300 2.4-litre turbodiesel 4WD, which, in Super Luxury guise, is one of the most affordable 4×4 SUVs in SA, the Toyota Fortuner 2.4GD-6 4×4 (R754 000), and Mahindra Scorpio-N 4XPlor, which, priced from R594 599, makes it an exceptional value proposition. So, what about the Ford Everest? Well, compared to the pricing of the Isuzu driven here, the most affordable 4×4 Everest’s R875 000 price tag puts it out of contention.
What is the 2026 Isuzu MU-X 1.9TD 4×4 LS like to drive?
Outputs remain unchanged, at 110 kW and 350 N.m, with power delivered to a part-time 4×4 system via a six-speed automatic transmission. On the road and at Atlantis Dunes in Cape Town, the engine felt responsive upon pullaway. However, at motorway speeds, it feels decidedly devoid of the necessary punch for effortless overtaking. Off-road, it’s a different story, however. The full 350 N.m (available between 1 800 and 2 600 r/min) made light work of the Atlantis Dunes, matching the 3.0-litre’s capability in 4H without needing low-range or the rear diff-lock. The double-wishbone front and five-link rear coil suspension delivers a refined, comfortable ride on both tarmac and sand. On-road fuel consumption settled at a respectable 8.2 L/100 km (against a claimed 7.5 L/100 km), though dune driving expectedly pushed that figure up…to 16.3 L/100 km!
Verdict
The 2026 Isuzu MU-X 1.9TD 4×4 LS hits a sweet spot for budget-conscious buyers in the market for a seven-seater adventure SUV. While it won’t win any highway drag races, it offers genuine off-road capability, essential tech, and impressive efficiency at a R150 000 saving over the 3.0-litre 4×4. Overall, the new 1.9TD 4×4 LS offers a practical, capable entry point into the 4×4 MU-X range. While the proven 1.9-litre turbodiesel delivers commendable overall performance, open-road overtaking requires extra patience.
Isuzu MU-X 1.9TD 4×4 LS specifications
- Price: R789 700
- Powertrain: 1.9-litre, four-cylinder, turbodiesel
- Transmission: six-speed automatic
- Driven wheels: all
- Power: 110 kW @ 3 600 r/min
- Torque: 350 N.m @ 1 800-2 600 r/min
- Claimed fuel consumption: 7.5 L/100 km
- Fuel tank: 80 litres
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