Isuzu MU-X VS Cupra Formentor
Isuzu MU-X
Likes
- Packed with standard features
- Solid touring platform
- 4WD capability
Dislikes
- Firm suspension
- Some may not like the noise
- Need all-terrain tyres
Cupra Formentor
Likes
- Efficient if you commit to regular charging
- Delightfully sexy design
- Decent ongoing costs
Dislikes
- Charging commitment is inconvenient
- Firm ride
- Power isn't as fun once battery is depleted
Summary
Isuzu MU-X
It’s an age-old debate: Which is the best vehicle for 4WDing, a wagon or a ute?
In order to draw closer to a definitive answer, we’ve pitted two of Isuzu’s well-equipped and very popular top-shelf 3.0-litre 4WDs – the seven-seat MU-X in LS-T spec and the five-seat D-Max X-Terrain – against each other to find out.
On paper, this seems like it should be a close contest.Â
Read more about
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- 2024 Isuzu D-Max and MU-X allegedly suffering rapid front tyre wear due to steering geometry issues, with Mazda BT-50 'twin-under-the-skin' also called out
- Off-road rivals or also-rans? The Isuzu MU-X and GWM Tank 500 to lead the charge against the new Toyota LandCruiser Prado, but can they really take down the king?
The D-Max has recently been given a mid-life facelift, replete with revised exterior styling as well as useful upgrades to its multimedia system, while the MU-X has received a more modest model-year update.
While the MU-X now has an entry-level 1.9-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder engine option, this test is focussed on the 3.0-litre version.
They are both well-equipped and have plenty to like, but which is the right one for you?
Read on.
| Safety rating | |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 3.0L turbo |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Fuel Efficiency | 8L/100km |
| Seating | 5 seats |
Cupra Formentor
The Cupra Formentor is the most popular model in the Cupra stable and now the VZe Tribe Edition has joined the ranks.
Sitting one rung below the top petrol grade, the Tribe Edition combines the VZe plug-in hybrid powertrain with some great design upgrades, as well as features usually reserved for the top model.
Is this the most appealing Formentor model yet? We've spent a week with it to find out.
Read more about
- New car sales slowdown coming? How Cupra's fully refreshed 2025 line-up including updated Leon, Formentor, plus all-new Tavascan and Terramar will drive sales despite uncertain economy
- Watch out Kia EV9! Cupra's upcoming large electric SUV to target global markets, possibly Australia, as it sets its eyes on US launch
- 'To bet on EVs only is too risky!' Cupra plans to sell sporty combustion cars for as long as there are buyers
| Safety rating | |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 1.4L turbo |
| Fuel Type | — |
| Fuel Efficiency | 1.9L/100km |
| Seating | 5 seats |
Verdict
Isuzu MU-X/10
The D-Max and the MU-X are two impressive 4WDs and both of them have plenty of appeal as daily drivers and touring platforms, but for slightly different reasons.
Both are evenly matched in terms of 4WD capability and have plenty to like in terms of driver-assist tech, standard features, and all-round driveability, but each has definite advantages and some minor trade-offs.
Which one is best for you? Well, that really depends on your lifestyle and your needs.
I like the seven-seat MU-X. It has plenty of appeal, but, for my money, I’d go for the D-Max. I use my vehicle for carrying loads – kayaks, surfboards, camping gear, and sometimes even building materials, furniture, rocks and rubbish – and a ute gives me extra versatility in terms of carrying onboard loads.
| Â | Isuzu D-Max | Isuzu MU-X |
| Price and features | 8 | 8 |
| Design | 7 | 7 |
| Practicality | 8 | 7 |
| Under the bonnet | 8 | 8 |
| Driving | 8 | 8 |
| Efficiency | 8 | 8 |
| Safety | 8 | 8 |
| Ownership | 8 | 8 |
| Score | 7.9 | 7.8 |
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Cupra Formentor8/10
The Cupra Formentor VZe Tribe Edition offers some great luxury features and is coupled with a plug-in hybrid powertrain that should entice those wanting something more efficient than the standard petrol grade. It's peak efficiency is only available with a fair amount of charging commitment, though, and the driving comfort isn’t always the best but its fun and looks hot. The price point also makes it appealing compared to its rivals.
Design
Isuzu MU-X
The D-Max and MU-X have never been particularly boring or indeed exciting in the looks department, which is a bonus in an age where inoffensive is sales gold.
But after its latest refresh treatment, the D-Max now has a bigger grille, new headlights, three-tier LED tail-lights, and redesigned wheels over the previous version.
Distinctive ‘X’ branding is included here and there – inside and out – and that adds a low-key class to the X-Terrain.
The MU-X is, well, the MU-X. Which is to say it doesn’t drum up any strong feelings – love or hate – either way.
For specs nerds, of which I’m one, the D-Max X-Terrain is 5310mm long (with a 3125mm wheelbase), 1880mm wide, 1810mm high and has a listed kerb weight of 2170kg. It has a wheel track of 1570mm and a 12.5m turning circle.Â
The MU-X LS-T is 4850mm long (with a 2855mm wheelbase), 1880mm wide, 1825mm high and has a listed kerb weight of 2180kg. It has a wheel track of 1570mm and an 11.4m turning circle.Â
| Â | Isuzu D-Max | Isuzu MU-X |
| Score | 7 | 7 |
Cupra Formentor
The Cupra Formentor sounds like a Transformers name and if it were one, it’d be a Decepticon, for sure. It’s way too sharply styled and sexy to be a good guy.Â
The special-edition model sees it paired with black and copper 19-inch alloy wheels and every design aspect doubles down on its sports-car presence from the crisp pleating across the body, to the twin exhausts and shapely grille. And this sporty presence is what its rivals lack.
Head inside and you'll notice the biggest change from the standard VZe model are the sport bucket seats in the front and the blue leather upholstery that has been liberally applied across the cabin.
The dashboard features gorgeous copper accents and contrasting stitching while being headlined with large tech screens that immediately catch your eye.
The interior has a killer design but it's not one you'd call plush as the edges and surfaces are as sharp as they look.
Practicality
Isuzu MU-X
Not a lot separates these two vehicles in terms of functionality or comfort because they share essentially the same interior with only a few differences.
The X-Terrain does, however, pip the LS-T overall with a slightly more premium look and feel to the cabin. Subtle touches such as red stitching in the cabin trim enhance the interior’s quiet charm.
Both cabins have a pleasant, familiar feel about them and are easy spaces in which to swiftly get comfortable and to quickly figure out where all controls are. And it’s easy to use those controls.
The X-Terrain has a black leather-accented trim, but there are plenty of durable plastic surfaces to cope with the messiness of real life.
The MU-X also has a leather-accented trim, but the same, practical plastic surfaces are present.
Charging options are numerous throughout the cabins of both vehicles – a mix of USB-A, USB-C and 12V up front, and USB-A for the second row.
Storage places (in both vehicles) include recesses for your everyday carry gear, a suitably deep centre console , as well as dual cupholders up front, cupholders in the rear fold-down centre armrest and bottle holders in the doors.
There are also cupholders either side of the third row in the MU-X for passengers riding back there.
There’s one seemingly minor but noticeable difference between the operation of the 9.0-inch multimedia touchscreen systems.
The MU-X has physical button options to activate some functions (including to switch on the audio system, to adjust volume, access sat nav etc), while those functions and others are activated/adjusted via on-screen buttons in the D-Max. No big deal, but you may prefer one of those approaches.
The load spaces on offer are obviously also a big point of difference in these vehicles.
The D-Max has a tub and it is shielded by a manually-operated roller-shutter cover that can be partially or fully opened or closed.
The tub is 1495mm long, 1530mm wide (1122mm between the wheel arches) and 490mm deep.
It is a double-walled tub, with an under-rail tub liner, two cargo tie-down points and it has tailgate assist.
The roller cover offers at least some degree of security from thieves, and protection from the elements (rain, mud, snow etc), but the drum (in which the cover is stored when it is rolled open) does impact the packability of the load space.Â
Another option for D-Max owners is to get an Isuzu or aftermarket canopy, although that impacts the versatility of the load space because once it’s an enclosed area it makes it a bit more difficult to carry long and/or large loads in the tub.
The MU-X has the advantage here in terms of security and protection from the elements because its load space is fully enclosed from the factory.
The MU-X’s cargo area is 311 litres with all three rows in use; 1119 litres with the third row flat; and it’s 2138 litres with the second and third rows folded.
The rear cargo area has a cargo cover (so any potential crooks who look through your windows are unable to see your valuables), tie-down points and a 12V power outlet. There is a storage space under the rear cargo area floor and a tool storage space inside the driver’s side rear cargo wall.
| Â | Isuzu D-Max | Isuzu MU-X |
| Score | 8 | 8 |
Cupra Formentor
For something that leans more towards a sports car than SUV in its styling, the cabin is still fairly practical when it comes to space and access.
Front occupants enjoy the best of each, though, and it's easy enough for a taller driver to get into a comfortable position.
The rear row offers excellent headroom but the legroom may be cramped for a tall passenger. It's best to think of the car as a four-seater as the middle armrest won't go down when there is a car seat installed.
In terms of seat comfort, fatigue will set in early on a long trip for front rowers as they are decidedly hard under the butt but the padding is a lot better in the rear row.
Overall, storage options and amenities are great throughout the car with the tri-zone climate control, heated front seats and steering wheel functions giving a premium cabin experience.
The glove box is extra large and can easily fit a small handbag and a manual while the middle console is on the small side. There are four cupholders and drink bottle holders (4/4) but the front cupholders need to be spaced out more to accommodate two cups properly. A few loose coffee lids were had!
In the rear you also get two map pockets and the boot has 345L of capacity available which is on the tiny side for a medium SUV! However, the wide boot aperture tricks you into thinking it’s bigger and the powered tailgate is always a handy feature.
Technology looks great but the multimedia system is finicky to use and one that takes a while to get used to. At first it's difficult to recognise what you have to touch to access the different menus available but the screen is responsive and the graphics are clear.
The built-in satellite navigation is easy to use, and the Tribe Edition also has wired/wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, four USB-C ports, a wireless charging pad and a 12-volt socket.
Price and features
Isuzu MU-X
Both of these vehicles – the 2024 D-Max X-Terrain dual-cab 4x4 and the 2024 MU-X LS-T 4x4 – have a drive-away price of $67,990, excluding on-road costs. However, each has an extensive list of accessories fitted.
This X-Terrain has an electronic brake controller ($896.05), premium paint ($695), a 12-pin plug ($393.25), rubber mats ($215.56) and a tow bar tongue ($215.05).
Accessories fitted at time of sale attract an accessory stamp duty of $86. With those extras onboard this D-Max has a price as tested of $70,490.91.
This MU-X has a tow bar kit ($1182.25), electronic brake controller ($896.05), premium paint ($695), a 12-pin plug ($393.25) and rubber mats ($249.65). With those accessories onboard and accessory stamp duty of $136.06 this MU-X has a price as tested of $71,542.26.
Standard features onboard both vehicles include a 9.0-inch multimedia touchscreen system with sat-nav, Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay, an eight-speaker sound system, eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, remote engine start, smart entry and start and 20-inch machined-alloy wheels on 265/60R20 Bridgestone 684II HT tyres. This D-Max has 18-inch tyres.
Exterior paint choices on the X-Terrain include 'Basalt Black Mica', 'Mercury Silver Metallic', 'Mineral White', 'Neptune Blue', 'Obsidian Grey Mica', 'Magnetic Red Mica', 'Granite Grey Mica', 'Moonstone White Pearl' and 'Sunstone Orange Mica'.
Exterior paint jobs on the MU-X LS-T include 'Galaxy Blue Mica', 'Cobalt Blue Mica', 'Magnetic Red Mica', Basalt Black Mica, Obsidian Grey Mica, Mercury Silver Metallic, Moonstone White Pearl and Mineral White.
| Â | Isuzu D-Max | Isuzu MU-X |
| Score | 8 | 7 |
Cupra Formentor
There are usually three variants available for the Formentor; the base V petrol model, the mid-spec VZe plug-in hybrid and the range-topping VZx petrol.
The Tribe Edition pairs the plug-in hybrid powertrain with some of the features you get in the VZx, making it technically sit right below the top model, despite being $2200 more expensive at $67,990 MSRP.
Yet still it offers great value compared to its luxury rivals, the Lexus NX350h Luxury Hybrid which sits at $71,600 MSRP and the Peugeot 3008 GT Sport Plug-in hybrid which starts at $82,915 MSRP, without feeling like the poor cousin.
For a $3K price hike over the standard VZe model, you enjoy heated front seats, sport bucket front seats, 'Petrol Blue' leather upholstery throughout the cabin, black and copper 19-inch alloy wheels, a black headliner, a 360-degree view camera and a powered drivers seat with memory and lumbar function.
Other standard equipment includes keyless entry and start, powered tailgate, heated steering wheel, dusk-sensing LED headlights, rain-sensing wipers, auto-start/stop function and a tyre repair kit and inflator.
Technology looks top-tier with the 12-inch touchscreen multimedia system with built-in satellite navigation, 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, tri-zone climate control, wired and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, four USB-C ports, Bluetooth, AM/FM radio, digital radio and a nine-speaker Harman Kardon sound system.
Under the bonnet
Isuzu MU-X
Both of these vehicles have a 3.0-litre, four-cylinder, turbo-diesel engine, producing 140kW at 3600rpm and 450Nm from 1600 to 2600rpm, matched to a six-speed auto.
This engine and auto combination forms part of a proven powertrain and while these two vehicles may be a bit sluggish in acceleration terms and may not be the most dynamic vehicles to drive, the D-Max and the MU-X have a real tractability about them that negates any other flaws.Â
They both have part-time 4WD, with high- and low-range. Driver-assist tech such as 'Rough Terrain' mode has been tweaked with the aim of making Isuzu 4WDs perform off-road even better than before.
| Â | Isuzu D-Max | Isuzu MU-X |
| Score | 8 | 8 |
Cupra Formentor
The VZe Tribe Edition is a plug-in hybrid that has an electric motor that produces up to 85kW/330Nm. This is paired with a 1.4L four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine. Together, they produce outputs of up to 180kW and 400Nm.
However, once the lithium-ion battery is depleted, those figures drop to 110kW/250Nm and you notice the difference on the open road.Â
The Tribe has a smooth six-speed automatic transmission and can do a 0-100km/h sprint in 7.0-seconds. Not crazy fast but still fun.
Efficiency
Isuzu MU-X
Official fuel consumption for this D-Max is 8.0L/100km on a combined cycle which rises to 8.3L/100km for this MU-X is.Â
Actual fuel consumption on this test, from pump to pump, was 9.8L/100km for the D-Max and 10.2L/100km for the MU-X.Â
The D-Max has a 76-litre fuel tank. So, going by those fuel consumption figures, you should be able to get a driving range of about 775km from a full tank.
The MU-X has an 80-litre fuel tank and using our real-world consumption figure you should be able to get a driving range of about 784km.
| Â | Isuzu D-Max | Isuzu MU-X |
| Score | 8 | 8 |
Cupra Formentor
Like all plug-in hybrids, you get the best efficiency if you recharge the Tribe often. If you want to get close to the official combined (urban/extra-urban) fuel cycle figure of 1.9L/100km you need to charge it every single time you use it.
Following this procedure over 347km of a mix of open and city driving, saw the real-world usage pop out at 2.3L/100km, which is outstanding.
However, the second half of the week saw 336km travelled and no recharge and the real-world usage stepped up considerably to 6.0L.
With its 40L fuel tank, you have a theoretical driving range of up to 2105km but expect less in real-world conditions. Worth noting Cupra recommends a minimum 95 RON unleaded petrol for this model.
The Tribe has a lithium-ion battery with a usable 10.9kWh capacity and the claimed pure EV range is up to 58km, as well as, a claimed 14.1kWh energy consumption figure.
Over my week with it, the consumption hovered around 22.8kWh/100km when cruising on the highway going 100km/h.
Driving
Isuzu MU-X
These two are evenly matched in terms of drivability and off-road capability.
We spent the lion’s share of our test time off-road but these two vehicles are fine on sealed surfaces; easy to drive (albeit a bit sluggish) and suitably refined (albeit a bit noisy).
Both can feel a tad agricultural to steer about at times but, as I said before, that’s okay and part of the Isuzu charm.
But beyond satisfying any daily-driving requirements these vehicles are impressive 4WDs.
From the engine-and-auto pairing, through to driver-assist tech, physical dimensions and simply general all-round suitability, these two are naturals in most off-road environments.
The D-Max and MU-X have plenty of low- and mid-range torque but both also have quite firm suspension over gravel and dirt tracks at speed, and are rather noisy. Although, if you’ve spent any time in a diesel 4WD the tractable engine’s subdued clatter won’t bother you at all.
But there are some differences between the two in terms of their overall performance off-road.
The D-Max has had, through recent development phases, a recalibrated off-road traction control system that's been improved to be more precise and effective through challenging terrain.
But the D-Max now benefits from the introduction of what Isuzu calls Rough Terrain mode, which operates like a boosted off-road traction control, claimed to kick into action at a point of less wheel-spin than a standard off-road traction control system, transferring torque to the wheels that have the most traction, sooner rather than later. Rough Terrain mode debuted in the MU-X in 2021.
This is not a magic pill by itself, but it’s another handy addition to the D-Max’s already-substantial off-road toolbox that also includes a rear diff-lock.
The D-Max has a greater listed ground clearance (240mm) than the MU-X (235mm) but both vehicles have the same wading depth (800mm).Â
The D-Max is somewhat hamstrung by its longer wheelbase (3125mm compared to the MU-X’s 2855mm wheelbase) and it has shallower approach and departure angles (27.3 and 19.0, respectively) than the MU-X (29.2 and 26.4), but its ramp-over angle is greater (not by much) at 23.8 degrees vs 23.1.
The MU-X is more nimble than the D-Max on technically challenging 4WD tracks, with its shorter wheelbase and shorter overall body length (4850mm vs the D-Max’s 5310mm). Its turning circle is 11.4m compared to the D-Max’s 12.5m.
Those factors don’t take anything away from the D-Max’s efficacy off-road, it simply means this ute needs to be driven with more careful consideration than the wagon.
Often, the size and type of standard tyres on a top-shelf 4WD straight out of a showroom are not ideal for 4WDing and should be replaced if off-roading is on the new owner’s agenda anytime soon.
However, the tyres on this D-Max and MU-X – 265/60R18 Bridgestone Dueler 684II HT (Highway-Terrain) tyres on the D-Max and 265/50R20 Bridgestone Dueler HTs on the MU-X – are okay, but not really up to scratch if tough 4WDing is what you’ll be doing.
The D-Max’s 18-inch wheel-and-tyre package is at least a more 4WDing-friendly sizing than the MU-X’s 20-inch combo.
Replace the HT tyres with a decent set of all-terrain tyres and maybe consider getting rid of the standard suspension while you’re at it and switch in an aftermarket lift kit, just for the hell of it.
Both vehicles have full-sized spares and in terms of packability, the D-Max has a listed payload of 930kg, while payload in the MU-X is 620kg.
Both vehicles can legally tow 750kg (unbraked trailer) and 3500kg (braked).
| Â | Isuzu D-Max | Isuzu MU-X |
| Score | 8 | 8 |
Cupra Formentor
The VZe Tribe Edition is happiest in the city and when you have a full battery. This is when it feels the most responsive with its power delivery. In the city, it’s quick and sure-footed.Â
However, once that battery hits empty and you’re on the open road, the power is there but it stops feeling as fun.
The firm steering keeps it nimble and the driver's cockpit makes you feel well connected with what the car is doing but the ride comfort is like the design, not what you'd call plush.
The suspension is firm and you feel every bump in the road. Road and wind noise are also pretty high and in general, you feel a bit weary at the end of longer trips.
The visibility is good despite having narrow windows but a car seat or passenger in the back seat compromises the rear view vision.Â
The Formentor shines in a tight car park with its 10.7m turning circle and compact proportions. The 360-degree view camera system is also most welcome but the quality of the feed is reflective of the grade level.
Safety
Isuzu MU-X
The D-Max and the MU-X both have the maximum five-star ANCAP safety rating.
As standard they have AEB, eight airbags - dual front, curtain, side, driver's knee and far side (front centre) - and a comprehensive suite of driver-assist tech including 'Forward Collision Warning', 'Adaptive Cruise Control', 'Lane Departure Warning', a tyre-pressure monitoring system and a raft of other driver-assist tech.
| Â | Isuzu D-Max | Isuzu MU-X |
| Score | 8 | 8 |
Cupra Formentor
The Formentor has a maximum five-star ANCAP safety rating from testing done in 2021 and now features 10 airbags including side chest bags for the rear row and a front centre airbag as standard.
Other standard equipment includes blind-spot monitoring, driver monitoring, tyre-pressure monitoring, LED DRLs, front and rear fog lights, forward collision warning, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure alert, lane keeping aid, side exit assist, adaptive cruise control, park assist, front and rear parking sensors and a 360-degree view camera system.
The Formentor has AEB with car, pedestrian and cyclist detection and is operational from 5.0-250km/h. The Formentor also has two ISOFIX child seat mounts and three top tethers but the rear seat is only wide enough for two child seats.
Ownership
Isuzu MU-X
The D-Max and the MU-X have a six-year/150,000km warranty and seven years of roadside assistance. That warranty is okay in terms of years, but unlimited km would be a welcome sweetener.
Service intervals are scheduled for every 12 months or 15,000km, whichever occurs soonest.
Capped price servicing covers the first five scheduled services for 24MY and later models (up to five years/75,000km - whichever occurs first) at a flat price of $449 for each service.
| Â | Isuzu D-Max | Isuzu MU-X |
| Score | 8 | 8 |
Cupra Formentor
The Formentor has a five-year/unlimited km warranty but it’s becoming more common to see longer warranty periods being offered now.
You can pre-purchase a three- or five-year servicing program. The three-year program costs a flat $990, averaging $330 per service. The five-year option averages costs $1990, averaging $398 per service which is reasonable for the class.
Servicing intervals are good at every 12-months or 15,000km, whichever occurs first.