Isuzu has revealed its all-new 2021 MU-X seven-seat SUV in Thailand where it’s made ahead of the model’s Australian launch which, while as-yet unconfirmed, is expected to be sometime next year.

Appearing to be based largely on the all-new D-Max underneath, this new MU-X marks a complete redesign compared to the model it replaces, with an entirely new body, interior, and chassis.

Although pricing and specification details for the Australian market won’t be revealed until closer to the vehicle’s local launch, a few things can at least be deduced from the Thai model, although some changes are likely to be made by the time it reaches Aussie shores.

In Thailand, both 1.9-litre twin-turbo and 3.0-litre single-turbo four-cylinder diesel engines are set to be offered, but its the latter that we’re more likely to see Down Under given its the same 140kW/450Nm engine fitted to the D-Max we receive.

Externally, Bi-LED headlights and a power-operated tailgate look to be available on higher-spec’d models, while on the inside many of the nice touches from the new D-Max such as the 9.0-inch infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, dual-zone climate control, and a similarly slick new cabin design also feature.

Additionally, cooled front seats, a domestic power socket on the centre console, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, an electric parking brake, and steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters are also set to feature in Thai-spec models.

Also worth noting is that the complete ADAS active safety suite fitted to the D-Max will be carried over to the MU-X, meaning it would boast advanced features such as Turn Assist with AEB, adaptive cruise control, and lane-centring technology among others.

While Isuzu UTE Australia is remaining tight-lipped at this stage on specifics for the Australian market, some speculate the new model is likely to arrive in around a year’s time based off the length of time between the 2021 D-Max being unveiled in Thailand and it actually heading Down Under.

Currently, the outgoing MU-X will still be on sale in Australia for the foreseeable future, with the limited-run Onyx Edition model having recently been introduced to add some of the features this all-new model will add as a way of keeping it fighting for the time being.

Patrick Jackson
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