The VW faces an uphill struggle against brand laden rivals, but is actually just as good.
Pros Sophisticated and high-tech interior plus engines for all situations in the pipeline
Cons Same-price rivals wear more premium badges
Pros Good value in lower trim levels Spacious inside for up to five people Excellent towing capabilities
Cons Cheap-feeling interior plastics Fussy infotainment system No seven-seat option
The 2020 Volkswagen Touareg V8 TDI is expensive, but it also has a very special diesel V-8 under the hood.
Pros Fast enough for the autobahn, diesel efficiency, premium-brand levels of luxury and refinement.
Cons Garish chrome grille; an Alcantara headliner would be nice; we'd love to have it here, but it's premium-brand money.
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
