Given its price, in a sense you could argue the Everest deserves a better engine than the five-cylinder diesel under the bonnet. In our comparison of Everest against Prado, the Toyota had the quieter of the two powerplants, but the Ford provided more power and torque. That was an off-road scenario of course.
Pros Secure dynamics Well-controlled ride Capable drivetrain
Cons Limp power delivery Dim headlights No steering reach adjustment
The Ford Everest has an excellent diesel engine, can seat up to seven, and offers the option of full-time, dual-range, four-wheel drive.Ford has done a good job of hiding the ute DNA: the Everest is comfortable on all roads but still very capable off road in 4WD trim.
Pros Drives well on road, and excellent off road.
Cons Ride and handling less polished than in passenger-car based SUVs.
The MU-X may look and feel a bit more basic than the Everest or Fortuner, but its tough Isuzu truck underpinnings is this SUV’s secret weapon. Isuzu also builds big commercial engines, designed to be reliable and robust, and that DNA is this engine.
Pros Great new engine Capable off-roader Decent third row
Cons Cabin is starting to age Boot is smaller than some rivals No advanced safety equipment
Like the D-MAX ute on which it's based, the evolution of Isuzu UTE's MU-X seven-seat SUV has remained relatively slow, its latest update headlined by extra torque from its 3.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel (now 130kW and 430Nm, up from 380Nm) and a new six-speed automatic transmission (previously five).
Pros Rugged and practical Very comfy ride Drop-down rear video unit
Cons Lacking some new safety tech Turbo lag from a standing start Rather basic cab trim