The new Isuzu mu-X has officially made its appearance in the Kenyan market, marking a historic milestone as it’s the first time this luxury SUV is being locally assembled in East Africa. It was previously produced at the Samrong Vehicle Assembly facility in Thailand, which attracted lots of taxation during importation.
Shifting to local production, Isuzu East Africa has successfully slashed the previous market prices of the mu-X by nearly 27%, from 13.5 million Kenyan shillings ($104,651) to 9.9 million Kenyan shillings ($76,744), thus making this rugged yet refined 7-seater more competitive than ever.
Here is the breakdown of what the new Isuzu mu-X brings to Kenyan roads.
Overview:
The new mu-X features Isuzu’s “Embrace Line” design concept, which bridges the gap between a rugged off-roader and a sophisticated urban SUV. Every curve has been reimagined, featuring a new front bumper with air curtains to improve aerodynamics. The commanding presence is rounded off by a striking radiator grille and piercing Bi-LED headlights that ensure visibility on even the darkest remote trails.
What’s New?
It features new 18-inch alloy wheels, a dynamic blade-style rear combination lamp, and an integrated air curtain in the front bumper. It is the first time for this model to be assembled at the Isuzu East Africa plant in Nairobi; this ensures that the vehicle is tuned for local conditions. It has a new 7-inch Multi-Information Display (MID) and upgraded infotainment systems. and not forgetting the inclusion of the Advanced Driver Assist System (ADAS) with stereo cameras.
Power and Performance
Isuzu offers two diesel engine variants, both engineered for durability and fuel efficiency.
Engine Specifications & Conversions
| Feature | 1.9L Blue Power Diesel | 3.0L Blue Power Diesel |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,899 cc (1.9 Liters) | 2,999 cc (3.0 Liters) |
| Power (KW) | 110 kW @ 3,600 rpm | 140 kW @ 3,600 rpm |
| Horsepower | 148 hp | 188 hp |
| Torque (NM) | 350 Nm @ 1,800–2,600 rpm | 450 Nm @ 1,600–2,600 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed Automatic | 6-speed Automatic |
Towing Capacity
The mu-X remains a leader for those who need to haul trailers, boats, or caravans. The 1.9L variant can tow up to 2,100 kg of braked trailer, while the 3.0L takes it further, able to tow up to 3,500 kg of braked trailer. For unbraked trailers, the figures go down; both models are able to tow 750 kg. It also features TraSway Control as standard, which maintains stability by automatically adjusting engine power and braking if the trailer begins to oscillate.
Interior, Tech, and Infotainment
The interior is designed to feel like being in a “first-class lounge.” It has comfortable seats for up to seven occupants with a flexible 60:40 split in the second row and 50:50 in the third.
Infotainment and Technology
Starting with the LS-U, it features an 8-inch touchscreen, while the flagship LS-T boasts a 9-inch high-definition touchscreen. Both support wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. There is a dual-zone automatic air conditioning with individual vents for all three rows to ensure everyone stays cool, and for convenience, the 2027 mu-X features a power liftgate (on LS-T), a passive entry start system (PESS), and a total of 8 speakers in the premium trim.
Pricing and Trims
Thanks to local assembly tax incentives, the isuzu mu-X 2026 is now significantly more affordable than the previous imported units. Now the mu-X 1.9L LS-U starts at approximately 8.9 million Kenyan shillings ($68,992.3), while the mu-X 3.0L LS-T, which is the highest trim, starts at approximately 9.9 million KES ($76,744). Both trims come with a 3-year or 100,000 km (62,137.1 miles) warranty and a service interval of 10,000 km (6,213.7 miles) or 12 months.
Safety: The ADAS Suite
- Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), which stops the car if a collision is imminent.
- Adaptive Cruise Control that automatically adjusts speed based on the vehicle in front (including Stop & Go).
- Blind Spot Monitoring & Rear Cross Traffic Alert, which is vital for navigating busy Nairobi traffic.
- Pedal Misapplication Mitigation, which suppresses engine power if the accelerator is accidentally pressed when an obstacle is detected.
Conclusion
The availability of the new Isuzu mu-X 2026 remains unknown, but based on what we have, the assembly of the mu-X began in November 2025, so we could be sure that it will be available in the market within this month of February or the end of March.
