A Comparative Look at the Isuzu MU-X and Ford Everest

The seven-seater, utility-based SUV segment holds a unique and important place in the Jamaicans, offering a compelling blend of family transport, rugged capability, and commanding presence. Two primary contenders in this space, the Isuzu MU-X and the Ford Everest, both built upon the durable foundations of their respective pickup truck siblings, present distinct approaches to achieving this balance.

A Historical Foundation: Utility Meets Family

Both the Isuzu MU-X and the Ford Everest share a developmental philosophy rooted in commercial durability.

The Isuzu MU-X traces its lineage to a history of dependable, utility-focused vehicles, drawing its robust structure directly from the Isuzu D-Max pick-up. First introduced in 2013, it was conceived as a practical, body-on-frame option. The model we examine belongs to the current second generation, which debuted globally between 2020 and 2021. This generation represents a significant refinement, retaining the brand’s reputation for longevity while incorporating more modern design and features, firmly establishing itself as a practical passenger vehicle (PPV).

Conversely, the Ford Everest entered the full-size SUV arena in 2003, built on the back of the Ford Ranger platform. Its ambition from the outset was to merge off-road performance with a higher degree of interior refinement, leaning into a more luxurious feel than its utility roots might suggest. The third generation, under review here, leverages the latest technologies and design cues from Ford, evolving into a vehicle that commands attention with both its rugged capacity and its elevated presentation.

Exterior Design: Purposeful vs Polished

The design language of these two SUVs immediately communicates their differing priorities.

The MU-X’s exterior projects a bold, assertive, and ultimately purposeful stance. Its front fascia is dominated by a substantial grille, flanked by modern headlight units. Character lines along the body lend an athletic definition to its large profile. Practicality is a clear theme, underscored by the inclusion of side steps, which aid entry and exit, given the vehicle’s elevated ride height. The 17-inch aluminium rims on the tested 1.9-litre variant are in keeping with its workhorse classification, providing a balanced, functional aesthetic.

The Everest, specifically in the Titanium trim, makes a more deliberate statement of elegance and sophistication. Its sleek, aerodynamic lines and imposing presence are characterised by a prominent front grille and distinctive LED headlights, giving it a more premium air. The vehicle’s powerful stance is enhanced by substantial 20-inch alloy wheels. Where the MU-X favours durable functionality, the Everest prioritises a sophisticated, dynamic appearance that transitions seamlessly from rugged terrain to an urban environment.

Interior and Infotainment: Practicality vs Technology

The cabin experience is where the philosophical divergence of the two vehicles becomes most apparent, particularly between the MU-X’s workhorse trim and the Everest’s high-spec model.

The MU-X interior is designed for function and longevity. The hard-wearing fabric upholstery is durable and easy to maintain, catering to a practical, no-fuss ownership experience. Comfort, however, is not overlooked, with generous headroom and legroom across all three rows, making it a genuine seven-adult cruiser. A notable feature is the effective air circulation provided by roof-mounted air conditioning vents for all passengers. While the infotainment system in the tested model is fundamentally sound, the emphasis remains on mechanical reliability over cutting-edge screen technology.

The Everest Titanium, by contrast, exudes luxury and a high-tech feel. Premium leather upholstery with detailed stitching immediately elevates the cabin’s atmosphere, which is further brightened by a retractable two-panel sunroof. The centrepiece is the vertically positioned 12-inch touchscreen display, which manages entertainment, navigation, and connectivity, including both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This is complemented by an 8.0-inch digital instrument cluster and a premium eight-speaker audio system, providing an immersive, concert-like experience. The seating layout, with theatre-style elevation for the second and third rows, enhances the passenger experience, though the driveline hump may slightly impede foot space for middle-row occupants. Both vehicles offer rear climate vents and multiple USB ports for charging.

Cargo Capacity: Utility vs Convenience

Cargo flexibility is paramount in this segment, and both vehicles offer multi-configuration seating.

The MU-X excels in overall maximum volume. With all three rows upright, it offers 311 litres of space. Folding the third row expands this to a significant 1,119 litres, and with both the second and third rows folded flat, a voluminous 2,138 litres of cargo capacity is liberated, truly transforming it into a capable load-carrier.

The Everest provides 259 litres of cargo space with all seats in use, sufficient for small luggage. Stowing the third row increases the volume to 898 litres. While slightly less than the MU-X in raw capacity numbers, the Everest’s rear design focuses on practical convenience, featuring a power liftgate and a more squared-off rear for easier loading.

Driving Experience: Torque-Driven Dependability vs Refined Power

The driving characteristics of the two SUVs are defined by their distinct engine configurations and suspension tuning.

Engine and Performance

The MU-X tested features the 1.9-litre turbo-diesel engine, which delivers 150 horsepower and a substantial peak torque of 350 Newton-metres (Nm). This engine, while not designed for outright speed, is a ‘workhorse’, with efficient torque delivery that makes light work of carrying loads and handling inclines without strain. The optional 3.0-litre engine offers a boost to 190 horsepower and 450 Nm for those desiring more power.

The Everest Titanium is powered by a 2.0-litre Bi-Turbo four-cylinder diesel engine, which is a step up in performance, producing an impressive 154 kilowatts (kW) (approximately 207 horsepower) and a robust 500 Nm of torque, channelled through a 10-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain provides a smooth, responsive, and powerful experience, with the 10-speed transmission proving efficient and well matched to the engine’s output. The power delivery is noted for its ample torque and refined nature, compared to some competitors.

Suspension and Handling

Despite being built on a ladder-frame chassis, the MU-X provides a commendable on-road experience. Its coil-over-spring suspension is highly effective at absorbing road imperfections, offering good cabin composure even over challenging surfaces like deep potholes. Body roll is well controlled for a vehicle with a high centre of gravity, which instils confidence when cornering. The four-wheel-drive system is simple and functional, engaged via a rotary dial for 2H, 4H, and 4L modes.

The Everest’s chassis, also derived from a pickup, is tuned for greater on-road refinement and comfort. Its suspension system and lighter steering aid manoeuvrability for a vehicle of its size, while its substantial exterior dimensions (4,914 mm long and 2,207 mm wide) still require caution in confined spaces. The 4x4 drivetrain and selectable drive modes allow it to tackle diverse terrain, complemented by its impressive 3,500 kg towing capacity. The overall feel is one of sophisticated capability, offering a blend of ruggedness and comfortable handling.

Conclusion

In comparing the Isuzu MU-X and the Ford Everest, the choice hinges on whether the buyer prioritises durable utility and maximum internal space flexibility or a high-tech, premium on-road experience.

The Isuzu MU-X is the honest, dependable workhorse. Its strengths lie in its proven utility heritage, the functional durability of its interior, and its exceptional cargo volume. It is a robust, practical machine that places reliability and effortless load-carrying capability at the forefront.

The Ford Everest, particularly in the higher-specification Titanium trim, offers a more luxurious and technologically advanced proposition. It boasts a more powerful and refined engine, a sophisticated interior environment, and a stronger emphasis on premium features, catering to those who desire rugged capability without compromising on modern convenience and style.

Ultimately, both vehicles successfully leverage their robust, body-on-frame architectures to deliver capable seven-seater SUVs for the Jamaican market, but they appeal to slightly different tastes and priorities within that demanding segment.