Isuzu Ute New Zealand (IUNZ) is releasing its revamped 2017 RF20 series seven-seat MU-X 4×4 SUV onto the market ahead of the National Fieldays.
Despite the improved factory running changes to the powertrain, interior and exterior, the recommended retail price of the RF20 series MU-X 4×4 SUV remains unchanged from the previous model at $65,990 inclusive of GST.
The New Zealand distributor imports one luxury version of the MU-X, which has an export build code solely for our market according to IUNZ general manager Murray Greenhalgh.
Greenhalgh says that the company receives a few enquiries annually for a less well-equipped MU-X model, but such cars are available on indent order if need be. However, he notes the price differential is not significant.
The RF20 series MU-X mirrors the rolling changes to the 2017 RT87 D-Max, particularly under the bonnet where it has also received the same Euro 5 4JJ1 Isuzu 3-litre four-cylinder turbo diesel engine with a diesel particulate diffuser in the exhaust system and a six-speed automatic transmission.
The MU-X continues to offer a 3-tonne towing capacity, 500kg less than its pick-up siblings, due to a different rear suspension setup.
Newly redesigned headlamps, radiator grille, front bumper and fog lamps, as well as new tail lamps and a redesigned rear bumper will differentiate the 2017 MU-X from previous cars, it also gains daytime running lights as well as better pedestrian impact protection.
Isuzu Ute is installing more sound proofing and noise suppression into the interior of the RF20 series MU-X as well as a new dashboard, new steering wheel, new chrome and high-gloss black trim, and a new instrument cluster.
There is also new leather upholstery with more stitching and greater padding than before for additional occupant comfort.
Standard features for the one-size-fits-all Isuzu MU-X SUV include a rearview camera, GPS satellite navigation, DVD player, tri-zone climate air conditioning, LED projector headlamps with auto levelling, and 18-inch alloy wheels.
Isuzu Ute offers an impressive range of factory approved accessories for the MU-X, and according to Greenhalgh, 80% of buyers order an accessory tow bar package.
