As I mentioned I have driven the top spec MUX-X-Terrain. A new model with all the luxuries and the 3.0 litre turbo diesel engine along with a six speed automatic transmission.

The other model I drove is the next one down, the LS-T but with the 2.2 litre turbo diesel engine and an eight speed automatic transmission.

Both of these are 4WD models. There is a base two wheel drive model with the smaller engine available.

Around town you do notice more changing between the gears in the smaller engine model. Economy is marginally better.

On highway cruising both engines hum along nicely. Again, you notice that the smaller engine will hunt more between the gears on hills etc. It’s also about one litre per 100 kilometres better in fuel.

I haven’t towed anything or taken them off road, using them purely as  family transport.

Pricing for the Isuzu MU-X starts at around $49,900 dollars through to $77,100 dollars all plus the usual costs. There is usually about $2,000 dollars difference between the engine choices.

Overall, I found the MU-X an ideal family SUV. It has the practicality of seven seats, the promise of 4WD adventures and the safety features to keep the family protected.

Isuzu MU-X gets the mum and bub tick of approval.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Brianna Fraser

Some other Isuzu MU-X Motoring Minute reviews:

• Isuzu MU-X X-Terrain 2025 review
• Touring holiday to Byron Bay –  X-Terrain
• 2025 Model update
• Touring review – LS-U 4×4 1.9L
• Isuzu MU-X 2024 MY driving impressions.

Readers can find all the specifications HERE.

Readers can find more details about the Isuzu MU-X – HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE Isuzu MU-X – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Isuzu MU-X – Buyers could also look at:

Competition in 4WD Recreational Ute segment is tight .

There is strong competition with:

• KGM Rexton
• Toyota Prado
• Ford Everest
• GWM Tank 500

Alternative SUVs include:

• Kia Sorento
• Hyundai Santa Fe
• Peugeot 508 GT Hybrid
• Mazda CX-70
• Mitsubishi Outlander
• Nissan Pathfinder
• Skoda Kodiaq
• Subaru Outback
• Toyota Kluger
• VW Tayron

Radio Segments Motoring Minute

In today’s fast paced world, Listeners often want a quick update or a piece of quirky Automotive news. Listening to Motoring Minute provides that as well as the latest Automotive news and reviews.

Motoring Minute is heard around Australia every day on over 120 radio channels. 

Motoring Minute has an average daily audience of over 550,000 listeners. 

Listeners will find Motoring Minute syndicated through various news sites around Australia. Additionally on the Community Radio Network across Australia.

The post Isuzu MU-X week three on Mum and Bub duties appeared first on Motoring Minute.

With a five star ANCAP safety rating the MU-X has a good base to work from. All models have a complete list of safety features as standard. That’s good news if buyers are looking for the bargain models.

Some of the key features that I appreciate include:

• Full side curtain airbags, keeping the little ones safe in the second seat row,
• Three point seats belts for all seats along with a safety alert if they aren’t used.
• See through surround cameras so that I don’t scratch the side of the car in car parks.
• Blind spot warning in case I missed a car when changing lanes.
• Driver attention warning. For those days after a sleepless night and
• Rear cross traffic alert and braking, ideal for when im backing out of a carpark or driveway.

Keeping our precious bub safe is key to buying decisions for family cars.

Alongside those more recognised safety features little things such as auto wipers and headlights help with keeping you focused on driving.

Other comfort features like cup and bottle holders, wireless smart phone connectivity, seat pockets on the back of the front seats and decent interior lighting all add to making the MU-X easy to live with daily.

In the two vehicles I drove the front seats came with electronic adjustment and heating. Again, making driving more comfortable.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Brianna Fraser

Some other Isuzu MU-X Motoring Minute reviews:

• Isuzu MU-X X-Terrain 2025 review
• Touring holiday to Byron Bay –  X-Terrain
• 2025 Model update
• Touring review – LS-U 4×4 1.9L
• Isuzu MU-X 2024 MY driving impressions.

Readers can find all the specifications HERE.

Readers can find more details about the Isuzu MU-X – HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE Isuzu MU-X – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Isuzu MU-X – Buyers could also look at:

Competition in 4WD Recreational Ute segment is tight .

There is strong competition with:

• KGM Rexton
• Toyota Prado
• Ford Everest
• GWM Tank 500

Alternative SUVs include:

• Kia Sorento
• Hyundai Santa Fe
• Peugeot 508 GT Hybrid
• Mazda CX-70
• Mitsubishi Outlander
• Nissan Pathfinder
• Skoda Kodiaq
• Subaru Outback
• Toyota Kluger
• VW Tayron

Radio Segments Motoring Minute

In today’s fast paced world, Listeners often want a quick update or a piece of quirky Automotive news. Listening to Motoring Minute provides that as well as the latest Automotive news and reviews.

Motoring Minute is heard around Australia every day on over 120 radio channels. 

Motoring Minute has an average daily audience of over 550,000 listeners. 

Listeners will find Motoring Minute syndicated through various news sites around Australia. Additionally on the Community Radio Network across Australia.

The post Isuzu MU-X – Mum and Bub duties week two appeared first on Motoring Minute.

This seven seat SUV comes in a choice of four different trim levels and on selected models a choice of two engines. There is also one two wheel drive version available.

I drove the top model MU-X X-Terrain with the 3.0 litre turbo diesel engine as well as the LS-T with the new 2.2 litre diesel engine.

We will chat about the differences later.

But my first impressions are that the MU-X is quite a stylish design.

There is plenty of room for both front occupants.

Rear seat leg, head and shoulder room is ok.

With two isofix compatible anchor points in the second row and three top tether points and wide opening doors, it’s well suited to baby seats.

I found that placing bub in his seat was comfortable .

Third row seats are for two smaller people only and access is tight. Using them also restricts boot space and packing  a pram and other gear becomes more difficult. As a five seat SUV its excellent.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Brianna Fraser

Some other Isuzu MU-X Motoring Minute reviews:

• Isuzu MU-X X-Terrain 2025 review
• Touring holiday to Byron Bay –  X-Terrain
• 2025 Model update
• Touring review – LS-U 4×4 1.9L
• Isuzu MU-X 2024 MY driving impressions.

Readers can find all the specifications HERE.

Readers can find more details about the Isuzu MU-X – HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE Isuzu MU-X – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Isuzu MU-X – Buyers could also look at:

Competition in 4WD Recreational Ute segment is tight .

There is strong competition with:

• KGM Rexton
• Toyota Prado
• Ford Everest
• GWM Tank 500

Alternative SUVs include:

• Kia Sorento
• Hyundai Santa Fe
• Peugeot 508 GT Hybrid
• Mazda CX-70
• Mitsubishi Outlander
• Nissan Pathfinder
• Skoda Kodiaq
• Subaru Outback
• Toyota Kluger
• VW Tayron

Radio Segments Motoring Minute

In today’s fast paced world, Listeners often want a quick update or a piece of quirky Automotive news. Listening to Motoring Minute provides that as well as the latest Automotive news and reviews.

Motoring Minute is heard around Australia every day on over 120 radio channels. 

Motoring Minute has an average daily audience of over 550,000 listeners. 

Listeners will find Motoring Minute syndicated through various news sites around Australia. Additionally on the Community Radio Network across Australia.

The post Isuzu MU-X on Mum and Bub duties week one appeared first on Motoring Minute.

The D-Max Blade is aimed at more adventurous buyers that like to explore far from  normal roads.

I’ve had one for a few weeks now and like all D-Max  Utes it does everything I ask of it without fuss. It’s so easy to live with every day.

Blade specific additions include:

• a 29mm lift, courtesy of new 35mm MTV twin-tube suspension tuned for local conditions.
• Larger wheel and tyre package of 275/65R17 Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac RT all-terrain
• 0mm steel bash plate, with integrated, rated, dual recovery points
• Integrated 112-Watt lightbar,
• Side steps and tub sports bar
• Lots of Blade bling
• And more.

Overall, the D-Max Blade looks pretty cool. Especially with the range of colours available.

It comes with the standard engine and transmission combination, which is good, but more power and torque would have been appreciated.

Cruising on the motorway, the Blade drives better than you would expect with less tyre noise and better steering response.

On dirt roads it simply goes about its business without fuss. On sand it excels.

The suspension is compliant and responsive.

The integrated nature of the addition’s shines. That’s what makes it worthwhile.

Pricing is from $80,900 its expensive but comparable to doing everything yourself.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Previous Motoring Minute Reviews

• Isuzu D-Max Blade revisited 2025
• We drive the Isuzu D-Max Blade for 2025
• Isuzu D-Max Blade 4WD Ute first drive

Readers can find more details about the D-Max BLADE – HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE D-Max BLADE – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

D-Max BLADE – Buyers could also look at:

Competition in 4WD Recreational Ute segment is tight .

The D-MAX BLADE has strong competition with:

• Nissan Navara PRO 4X Warrior 
• Toyota HiLux Rogue
• Mazda BT-50 SP
• Ford Ranger Tremor 

Radio Segments Motoring Minute

In today’s fast paced world, Listeners often want a quick update or a piece of quirky Automotive news. Listening to Motoring Minute provides that as well as the latest Automotive news and reviews.

Motoring Minute is heard around Australia every day on over 120 radio channels. 

Motoring Minute has an average daily audience of over 550,000 listeners. 

Listeners will find Motoring Minute syndicated through various news sites around Australia. Additionally on the Community Radio Network across Australia.

The post Isuzu D-Max Blade 4WD Ute driven for 2026. appeared first on Motoring Minute.

Here are my top three reasons why im such a big fan of the D-Max X-Terrain

First, it looks good. Especially in the Sunstone Orange colour I had. That contrasting with black grill, side steps, sports bar and tub roller cover really stands out. The matte grey 18 inch alloys also add to the appeal.

Second is the practical performance capability. The 3.0L turbo diesel engine is reliable, robust and will last for hundreds of thousands of kilometres. With 140 kW of power and 450 Nm of torque, it’s under stressed. This torque comes in from a low 1600 rpm.

This is combined with the 6sp Automatic transmission, 3500 kg tow rating and select on the go 4WD system.

There are more powerful Utes available, but the Isuzu 3.0L allows for easy driving no matter what the situation.

Third is the standard safety features. The D-Max was the first with a comprehensive suite of safety features across the range. They are still class leading.

Over the years I driven the D-Max X-Terrain in almost every situation you could think of. And every time the overall impression was that it’s so easy to live with and does everything without fuss.

Yes, the Isuzu D-Max is a favourite Ute of mine, especially in the X-Terrain specification.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Readers can find more details about the D-Max X-Terrain – HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE D-Max X-Terrain – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

D-Max X-Terrain – Buyers could also look at:

Competition in 4WD Recreational Ute segment is tight .

Buyers  could look at :   Kia Tasman,  Ford Ranger Tremor, Toyota HiLux Rogue, Nissan Navara Pro 4-X Warrior, Mazda BT-50 SP, Mitsubishi Triton GSR.

Radio Segments Motoring Minute

In today’s fast paced world, Listeners often want a quick update or a piece of quirky Automotive news. Listening to Motoring Minute provides that as well as the latest Automotive news and reviews.

Motoring Minute is heard around Australia every day on over 120 radio channels. 

Motoring Minute has an average daily audience of over 550,000 listeners. 

Listeners will find Motoring Minute syndicated through various news sites around Australia. Additionally on the Community Radio Network across Australia.

The post Isuzu D-Max X-Terrain 4WD Dual Cab Ute driven for 2026. appeared first on Motoring Minute.

All designed to meet the draconian NVES rules imposed on manufacturers.

Available in a limited range of models both 2wd AND 4wd, I recently drove the 4WD X-Rider version.

This model sits somewhere in the middle of the range.

The main difference is the engine. With 120kW and 400Nm from 1600 – 2400 rpm its certainly less than buyers are used to.

It does come with an eight speed sports AT which helps cover for the loss of performance.

Isuzu also claim better fuel economy but its less than 1 l/100km and in real world situations that would probably be negated by working the engine harder.

Aart from slightly less kerb weight which means marginally more payload. The 2.2L and 3.0L Utes have the same GCM and towing ratings.

So, the question remains – Why would someone buy the 2.2L over the 3.0L version D-Max.

Well price is one reason. It’s about $2,000 cheaper before the usual costs.

CO2 emissions may be another. However, the difference is marginal at best.

So, my answer is that I really cant see any real reason why. For me I would take the 3.0L versions every time.

They have proved themselves to be robust, reliable long life engines.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Readers can see the full specifications HERE. 

Readers can find more details about the D-MAX X-RIDER 2.2L  – HERE.

TO LISTEN TO THE D-MAX X-RIDER 2.2L – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

D-MAX X-RIDER 2.2L – Buyers could also look at:

Buyers of the  Isuzu D-MAX X-RIDER 2.2L are in a crowded segment. There is a LOT to choose from.

Potential choices could be Mazda BT-50 2.2L,  KGM Musso, FOTON Tunland, GWM Cannon,

Radio Segments Motoring Minute

In today’s fast paced world, Listeners often want a quick update or a piece of quirky Automotive news. Listening to Motoring Minute provides that as well as the latest Automotive news and reviews.

Motoring Minute is heard around Australia every day on over 120 radio channels. 

Motoring Minute has an average daily audience of over 550,000 listeners. 

Listeners will find Motoring Minute syndicated through various news sites around Australia. Additionally on the Community Radio Network across Australia.

The post Isuzu D-MAX X-RIDER 2.2L 4WD Dual Cab Ute driven for 2026. appeared first on Motoring Minute.

 The D-Max is a popular towing vehicle. It has a 3.0L turbo diesel engine with 145kW of power and 450Nm of torque that comes in at a low 1600rpm. This mated to a robust 6Sp Aisin AT makes it an ideal towing vehicle. It will also easily tow 3500 kg.

Its one of my favourite towing vehicles.

The package includes:

• a tow bar tongue and 50mm ball,
• 12-pin wiring harness,
• electric brake controller,
• Clearview extendable heated and power-fold compact towing mirrors,
• a canopy with dual lift-upside windows,
• slimline weather shields, and
• unique TOUR MATE badging.

This is a well thought out package. Many vans these days have 12 pin wiring, and every tow vehicle needs an electronic brake controller. Every Isuzu D-Max comes with  genuine tow hitch as well.

The Clearview extendable mirrors are the best on the market. The canopy looks great and adds another dimension for load carrying. Also going old school with the slim line window shields is a clever touch.

This is definitely a package that is worth looking at for prospective towers.

This is a Motoring Minute

I’m Rob Fraser

Readers can find more details about the D-MAX Tour Mate  HERE.

TO LISTEN TO THE D-MAX Tour Mate  – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Instead of the D-MAX Tour Mate  – buyers could look at:

This is a popular segment: Buyers could look at: Toyota HiLux, Ford Ranger 2.0L,  Mazda BT-50, Nissan Navara, SsangYong Musso, LDV T60, Mitbushi Triton GLS 

Radio Segments Motoring Minute

In today’s fast paced world, Listeners often want a quick update or a piece of quirky Automotive news. Listening to Motoring Minute provides that as well as the latest Automotive news and reviews.

Motoring Minute is heard around Australia every day on over 120 radio channels. 

Motoring Minute has an average daily audience of over 550,000 listeners. 

Listeners will find Motoring Minute syndicated through various news sites around Australia. Additionally on the Community Radio Network across Australia.

The post Isuzu D-MAX Tour Mate 4wd Dual Cab Ute revisited for 2025. appeared first on Motoring Minute.

The thing I really like about Isuzu Utes is that they all come with the full set of safety features, right from the entry level model through to the top model.

They all come with wireless connectivity for smart phones and all have height and reach adjustments for the steering wheel

So the basics are covered. The X-Rider comes with:

• A soft cover and sports bar for the tub
• 10 inch infotainment system
• Black exterior and interior highlights

The fabric seats appear hard wearing, but the manual adjustment means that it’s a little difficult to find a really comfortable position.

The Ute I drove comes with the 3.0 litre 4 cylinder turbo diesel engine and a reliable 6 speed automatic transmission. Of course, dual range 4WD and a 3500 kg towing capacity.

The X-Rider comes with the upgraded rear springs that allows better payload with a slightly softer on road ride when unladen. Slightly is the key word here.

Priced at $59,500 plus the usual costs, the Isuzu D-MAX X-Rider is great value as you would expect from Isuzu

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Brianna Fraser

Readers can find more details about the D-MAX X-Rider  – HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE D-MAX X-Rider – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Instead of the D-MAX X-Rider – buyers could look at:

This is a popular segment: Buyers could look at:

Radio Segments Motoring Minute

In today’s fast paced world, Listeners often want a quick update or a piece of quirky Automotive news. Listening to Motoring Minute provides that as well as the latest Automotive news and reviews.

Motoring Minute is heard around Australia every day on over 120 radio channels. 

Motoring Minute has an average daily audience of over 550,000 listeners. 

Listeners will find Motoring Minute syndicated through various news sites around Australia. Additionally on the Community Radio Network across Australia.

The post Isuzu D-MAX X-Rider 4WD Dual Cab Ute revisited appeared first on Motoring Minute.

It was a bit of a touring holiday with stops at Nelson Bay on the way up and a couple of places on the way back down to Sydney for a friends wedding.

So, a couple of thousand kilometres later what’s my thought. – I love it.

The XT looks quite stylish, and the bold grill stands out. I do like the styling changes for the updated model.

Inside its spacious and particularly comfortable. Visibility for the driver is good. There is plenty of room for a family. Boot space is large and flexible. Plenty of room for luggage or baby strollers.

The rear seats will all fold down to form a cavernous flat area. But like a lot of seven seat wagons there is minimal room if you use all three rows of seats.

The outer middle row seats have two isofix points that are easily accessible. As well as top tether points that but they are a bit fiddly.

The 3.0 litre diesel engine has enough performance and economy is excellent. Of course, it will tow whatever you want and its 4WD ability is great.

The Isuzu MU-X X-Terrain could be the perfect family wagon.

This is a Motoring Minute

I’m Brianna Fraser

Readers can find more details about the MU-X X-Terrain – HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE MU-X X-Terrain  – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Buyers could also look at:

Buyers of the MU-X X-Terrain could also look at the following: KGM Rexton, Subaru Outback XT, Peugeot 5008 GT Hybrid, Toyota Fortuner, Nissan Pathfinder, Hyundai Santa Fe, Kia Sorento

Radio Segments Motoring Minute

In today’s fast paced world, Listeners often want a quick update or a piece of quirky Automotive news. Listening to Motoring Minute provides that as well as the latest Automotive news and reviews.

Motoring Minute is heard around Australia every day on over 120 radio channels. 

Motoring Minute has an average daily audience of over 550,000 listeners. 

Listeners will find Motoring Minute syndicated through various news sites around Australia. Additionally on the Community Radio Network across Australia

The post Isuzu MU-X X-Terrain 2025 review appeared first on Motoring Minute.