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SUVs based on pickup trucks are very popular in the Far East. The 2020 Isuzu MU-X is using the same platform as the D-Max and two vehicles are sharing similar markets. For the next season, we can expect the MU-X with new equipment. The most significant upgrades are coming in the safety compartment and for infotainment. Isuzu wants to keep up the pace with leaders in the segment. The most popular SUVs built on trucks’ architecture are the Nissan Patrol, Toyota Fortuner, and Ford Everest. All of them are available in Pacific Asia and Australia.
The new 2020 Isuzu MU-X is not taking too many changes. The SUV arrived in 2017 and it is still early for the facelift. The Japanese company had a similar vehicle before. The MU-X succeeded MU7 model. Both of them are seven-seaters that are built on BoF platform.
The future of the SUV could bring some surprising moves. The MU-X is about to arrive in the US. Well, this is still a rumor, but the Japanese company made a partnership with Cummins. The company famous for its diesel engines could provide cleaner sources of power, which can meet US regulations. Together with the MU-X, we could see the D-Max truck going the same way.
Minor Changes, Restyling Will Happen in 2021
Mostly unchanged, the 2020 Isuzu MU-X is not going to attract too many new buyers. However, the popularity of the SUV is raising, and soon it could become a serious factor in the segment. Well, the competition is tough, but Isuzu is ready to accept the challenge.
Safety of the MU-X was one of the keys of its success. The body-on-frame architecture provides a better service than the unibody concept. The impact power spreads to both chassis and frame, while the unibody vehicles are soaking energy with all its body. With minor tuning, the 2020 Isuzu MU-X will become even safer.
The company will also revisit the interior and features inside. There is a room for seven passengers and the foldable seats can create more cargo space. Some features from the mid-range offer will be available on entry-level trims, such as touchscreen display or automatic climate control. 16-inch wheels are standard, while you can optionally choose 18-inchers.
Future
The 2020 Isuzu MU-X will offer three different diesel engine configurations. But none of them is capable to meet regulations of more strict markets. And Isuzu has an intention to appear in Europe and of course, in the United States. For this move, the company needs to meet efficiency and emission standards.
The first step is done – Isuzu made a partnership with Cummins. This company is already offering its services to FCA, and their engines are under the hood of some flagship models – Ram HD trucks. However, the SUV is not after such a large unit. Instead, Cummins will make a smaller V6 displacement. Well, the two companies did not unveil detailed plans and further steps of their cooperation.
2020 Isuzu MU-X Specs
Until Cummins finishes the drivetrain for the MU-X, the SUV is going to rely on the existing lineup. The smallest displacement is a 1.9-liter four-cylinder drivetrain. It is paired with a five-speed manual gearbox and produces 150 hp and 350 Nm of torque. Optionally, you can find an automatic transmission. Other options to choose are 4×2 or 4×4 drive.
Turbocharged engine provides more power than a larger 2.5-liter unit. The output of 135 hp and 330 Nm is sent to 4×4 drive system through a manual transmission. Automatic is not an option here, while some markets are still offering a 4×2 drive.
The most markets are covered with a 3.0-liter V6 engine. It is using the same transmission and drives mode options. Outputs are 180 hp and 380 Nm and there is no surprise why this is the most popular option. Turbo lags are not so frequent and the drivetrain works smoothly with an automatic gearbox. The largest engine can tow the most. With a towing capacity of 3,000 kg, it is already one of the most attractive options to buyers who need to haul a lot. Properly equipped with the optional package, the towing capacity reaches 3,500 kg.
2020 Isuzu MU-X Pros and Cons
We already mentioned safety as one of the best things about the MU-X. the new model will make it even more impressive. Also, the new infotainment system will be a reason to test it. Unchanged, the 2020 Isuzu MU-X will offer the same advantages and downsides as its predecessor. The design of the SUV is very attractive, especially the front fascia. The engine is pretty capable and the MU-X is not losing the pace after its rivals. On the other hand, this company has no big network and the maintenance could be expensive because of that. Also, the starting price of the vehicle is already high, so extra costs are not making favors. The new Cummins engine will definitely turn around some things when it shows up.
