The Gqeberha-based manufacturer recorded a massive 21% year-on-year increase in total production volumes, rolling over 27 400 D-MAX bakkies and 3800 trucks off the assembly line.

A Decade of Dominance in Commercial Logistics

This financial year marks the 13th consecutive year that Isuzu has held the title of South Africa’s number-one brand in both the medium- and heavy-commercial vehicle segments.

According to Dominic Rimmer, Executive Vice President for Manufacturing and Product Engineering, the surge was the result of a deliberate, multi-year strategy rather than an accidental spike in orders. By aligning production cycles more closely with actual market needs across Africa, IMSAf was able to scale its operations responsibly.

This execution ensured that the increased assembly speed did not impact the build quality or the “workhorse” durability for which the D-MAX and Isuzu Truck ranges are known. It is a measured response to a growing market that demands vehicles capable of supporting essential economic activity in challenging environments.

Built for Adventure, Ready for Anything

The mu-X LSE isn’t all about show. Sure, it looks the part with its aggressive stance, bold grille, and protective roof rails. But beneath the stylish exterior lies a capable machine. A robust suspension system boasts a generous ground clearance, allowing you to tackle uneven terrain with confidence. Unlike its mall-crawler cousins, the mu-X 4×4 features a selectable four-wheel-drive system, letting you shift from smooth on-road driving to proper off-road control with a twist of a dial.

This isn’t to say the mu-X is all brawn and no brain. Isuzu’s engineers have cleverly designed the system to be user-friendly, so even those new to off-roading can feel confident behind the wheel.

It may not look like it, but the mu-X was made for scaling mountainsides and certainly won’t shy away from any challenge. When faced with an overwhelming condition, the selectable drive modes come into their own. Simply switch to the “Sand” setting, and the mu-X will intelligently adjust its power delivery and traction control to keep you moving safely. Likewise, dedicated “Mud” modes provide optimised performance for conquering a variety of tricky terrains.

More Than Just Muscle

Of course, an SUV’s true worth is measured by its ability to handle everyday life. Thankfully, the mu-X LSE excels in this department too. The spacious and comfortable interior offers ample legroom and headroom for even the tallest passengers. Whether you’re hauling groceries or a car full of friends on a weekend getaway trip, the mu-X has the space to accommodate your needs.

The user-friendly infotainment system keeps everyone entertained on long journeys, with wireless Apple Carplay and Android Auto, while the large cargo area easily swallows luggage, camping gear, or even a flat-pack dresser from your antique store find.

The mu-X LSE strikes a perfect balance between capability and comfort. It’s a true SUV that won’t back down from a dirt track adventure while remaining perfectly at home navigating the urban jungle. The powerful engine delivers enough grunt to conquer inclines and tow the essentials for your weekend getaway, while the diesel fuel efficiency ensures you won’t break the bank at the pump. Our average fuel consumption came in at 8.1l per 100km, churning out a range of 850km on a single tank.

One striking caveat though is that because the mu-X is based on the Isuzu D-Max it has a lot of bakkie characteristics to it. It tends to feel sluggish to respond and even to manoeuvre around tight spots in town. Something Isuzu is yet to master, compared to the likes of Ford and Toyota.

Yes, the road noise from the chunky off-road tyres might be noticeable on the highway, but that’s a small trade-off for the unmatched confidence they inspire when venturing off the beaten path.

The Verdict: A Capable Companion for Every Adventure

The 2024 Isuzu mu-X 3.0 Ddi 4×4 LSE might not be the most glamorous option on the market, but it more than makes up for it with its genuine off-road prowess and practical everyday functionality. It’s a compelling choice for those who crave a vehicle that can keep up with their adventurous spirit, all while offering the comfort and space needed for family life. So, if you’re looking for an SUV that’s as happy hauling the kids to soccer practice as it is tackling a challenging off-road trail, the mu-X LSE is well worth a closer look.

Pricing for the ISUZU mu-X (3.0 Ddi 4×4 LSE) starts from R946 300.