The ISUZU Mu-X 3.0 LSE 4×4 has long been one of South Africa's body-on-frame SUV stalwarts. And now the Japanese-based manufacturer has updated it. First things first, R973 300 may sound like a lot for an ISUZU, but the LSE is one of the top dogs in the line-up, and it is a revelation. Plus, in today's new-car market, it is, physically, a whole lot of car for the money.

Having driven countless Mu-Xs and its predecessor, the Chevrolet Trailblazer, we're frankly amazed at the transformation. It's seriously good.

The 3.0-litre Duramax turbodiesel engine is a four-cylinder engine, well proven and durable, now offering up 140 kW and 450 Nm of torque. It's paired with the 6-speed automatic and fuel consumption is a claimed 7.6 l/100km, however, we returned closer to 9.8 l/100 km in our real-world testing.

The engine itself is surprisingly torquey and we felt it was well suited to this application.

The exterior design of the ISUZU Mu-X 3.0 LSE 4×4 is now a great looking vehicle. You can forget the rough and rugged aesthetics that made it look more like the D-Max bakkie from a few generations ago. With chunky alloy wheels, curvaceous design lines, and attractive LED head- and taillight arrangements, it has a premium touch to its big, muscular stance.

On the inside, the Mu-X's party trick is the seven-seat layout of course. Both the second and third rows fold flat to increase utility space from 205 to a hulking 1,830 litres, which is enough to probably camp in if pressed.

The middle row of seats has backrests that can recline by up to six degrees, as well as integrated folding armrests. Keeping with the theme of practicality, the Mu-X has no less than 32 storage areas dotted around the cabin.

For just under a million, the ISUZU Mu-X 3.0 LSE 4×4 comes peppered with top-of-the-range comfort and convenience features, too. The LSE model gets the biggest 9-inch touchscreen infotainment setup with smartphone connectivity. The instruments are a mix of analogue and digital. And while they're not as attention-grabbing as the Chinese digital cockpits, we assure you the information is clearly displayed, easy to understand, and actually a pleasure to use.

The LSE comes fully loaded with Bluetooth, Aux-In and USB, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Not to mention climate control, cruise control, and electric leather seats. For the adventurers out there, the ISUZU Mu-X 3.0 LSE 4×4 is a class above. It's comfortable on the road, but you can sense it was built for traversing off-road.

It has a wading depth of 280 mm and ground clearance of 235 mm, which means you're sat miles in the air for a great view of what's ahead. And there are impressive entry and departure angles of 30 and 26 degrees respectively. Plus, breakover angle is 24 degrees.

Best of all, the driveline is adaptable so you it doesn't feel a heavy and cumbersome beast when you're in urban mode. It's on-the-fly system is activated via a rotary dial and a two-speed transfer case splits torque either in two-wheel drive (2H), high ratio four-wheel drive (4H), or low ratio four-wheel drive (4L). The transfer case can be shifted at speeds up to 100 km/h.

The ISUZU Mu-X 3.0 LSE 4×4 boasts impressive off-road capabilities, which means that you can take on even the most challenging terrain with confidence. Whether you're climbing steep inclines or navigating rocky terrain, this vehicle is built to handle it.

The ISUZU Mu-X 3.0 LSE 4×4 offers a comfortable driving experience, both on and off the beaten path. The spacious interior and advanced features make it perfect for long road trips or off-road adventures.

The ISUZU Mu-X 3.0 LSE 4×4 is a game-changer in the world of off-road SUVs. With its impressive capabilities and rugged design, it's perfect for anyone who loves the great outdoors. Whether you're a seasoned adventurer or just starting out, this vehicle is sure to deliver.

With a price tag of R973,700, the ISUZU Mu-X 3.0 LSE 4×4 is an investment that's sure to pay off. Its impressive capabilities, rugged design, and advanced features make it a must-have for anyone who loves the great outdoors.

The ISUZU Mu-X 3.0 LSE 4×4 is a true beast of a vehicle, ready to take on even the toughest terrain. With its impressive ground clearance, wading depth, and driveline adaptability, it's the perfect companion for any off-road adventure.

In conclusion, the ISUZU Mu-X 3.0 LSE 4×4 is a true off-road SUV that's perfect for anyone who loves the great outdoors. Its impressive capabilities, rugged design, and advanced features make it a must-have for anyone looking to take their off-road adventures to the next level.