Isuzu mu-X LS-A 4×4 3.0 AT (2018) vs Hyundai Santa Fe 2.5 GLS 8AT AWD (2024)
A full spec-by-spec comparison of Isuzu mu-X LS-A 4×4 3.0 AT (2018) vs Hyundai Santa Fe 2.5 GLS 8AT AWD (2024) — engine, performance, dimensions, features and price, with the differences highlighted to help you decide.
| Specification | Isuzu mu-X LS-A 4×4 3.0 AT (2018) Isuzu ₱2,145,000 | Hyundai Santa Fe 2.5 GLS 8AT AWD (2024) Hyundai ₱2,540,000 |
|---|---|---|
| Overview | ||
| Model Year | 2018 | 2024 |
| Warranty | 100,000 km/3-years | 5 years/200,000 kms |
| Availability | Current | Current |
| Engine & Drivetrain | ||
| Engine Type | Inline-4 | Inline-4 |
| Displacement | 2999cc | 2497cc |
| Valvetrain | DOHC 16-valve | 16-Valve |
| Aspiration | Turbo Intercooler | Naturally Aspirated |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Max Power | 177 PS @ 3550 - 3650 rpm | 194 PS |
| Max Torque | 380 Nm @ 1800-2800 rpm | 246 Nm |
| Transmission | 6-Speed A/T | 8-Speed Automatic |
| Drivetrain | 4WD | AWD |
| Body & Dimensions | ||
| Body Type | SUV | Midsize Crossover SUV |
| Segment | J | SUV |
| Doors | 4 | 5 |
| Seating Capacity | 2+3+2 | 7 |
| Length (mm) | 4825 | 4830 |
| Width (mm) | 1860 | 1900 |
| Height (mm) | 1840 | 1770 |
| Wheelbase (mm) | 2845 | 2815 |
| Fuel Tank (L) | 65 | 67 |
| Construction | — | Unibody |
| Exterior Colors | — | Creamy White, Magnetic Silver, Abyss Black, Earthy Brass Matte |
| Curb Weight (kg) | — | 2035 |
| Chassis, Wheels & Brakes | ||
| Front Suspension | Independent Double Wish bone with coil spring and stabilizer | MacPherson Strut |
| Rear Suspension | 5-Link Coil Spring with Stabilizer | Multi-Link |
| Front Wheels | 18 Alloy | 20 Alloy |
| Rear Wheels | 18 Alloy | 20 Alloy |
| Front Tires | 255/60 R18 | 255/45R20 |
| Rear Tires | 255/60 R18 | 255/45R20 |
| Front Brakes | Disc | Disc |
| Rear Brakes | Disc | Disc |
| Steering Type | Power Asisted | EPS |
| Steering Column | Tilt & Telescopic | Tilt & Telescopic |
| Tire Pressure Monitoring | No | Yes |
| Differential Lock | No | — |
| Safety | ||
| Anti-lock Braking (ABS) | Yes | Yes |
| Electronic Brakeforce Distribution | Yes | Yes |
| Brake Assist | Yes | — |
| Parking Sensors | Yes | Yes |
| Stability Control | Yes | — |
| Traction Control | Yes | Yes |
| Vehicle Dynamic Control | No | — |
| Forward Collision Mitigation | No | — |
| Blind Spot Warning | No | — |
| Hill Start Assist | Yes | — |
| Hill Descent Control | Yes | Yes |
| Auto Stop/Start | No | — |
| Driver Airbag | Yes | Yes |
| Knee Airbag | No | Yes |
| Passenger Airbag | Yes | Yes |
| Front Curtain Airbags | No | Yes |
| Rear Curtain Airbags | No | Yes |
| Rear Side Airbags | No | Yes |
| Engine Immobilizer | Yes | Yes |
| Security Alarm | Yes | Yes |
| Door Locking | Central Locking | Central Locking |
| Comfort & Convenience | ||
| Air Conditioning | Auto Climate Control System | Automatic Climate Control Dual Zone |
| Rear A/C Vents | Yes | Yes |
| Seat Material | Leather | Leather |
| Parking Brake | Manual | EPB |
| Key Type | Keyless Entry | Keyless |
| Push-Button Start | Yes | Yes |
| Cruise Control | Yes | Yes |
| Multi-Info Display | Yes | — |
| Paddle Shifters | No | Yes |
| Reverse Camera | Yes | Yes |
| Auto Headlights | No | — |
| Power Windows | Yes | Yes |
| Power Seats | Yes | Yes |
| Remote Trunk Release | No | — |
| Eco Mode | No | — |
| Antenna | yes | — |
| Infotainment & Audio | ||
| Speakers | 6 | 6 |
| Touchscreen | Yes | Yes |
| Navigation | Yes | — |
| Bluetooth | Yes | Yes |
| Apple CarPlay | No | Yes |
| Android Auto | No | Yes |
| USB | Yes | Yes |
| AUX Input | Yes | — |
| AM/FM Radio | Yes | Yes |
| CD Player | Yes | — |
| DVD Player | Yes | — |
| MP3 Playback | Yes | — |
| iPod Support | Yes | — |
| SD Card Slot | No | — |
| Lighting | ||
| Headlights | LED | LED |
| Fog Lights | Yes | — |
| Daytime Running Lights | Yes | Yes |
Isuzu mu-X LS-A 4×4 3.0 AT (2018) vs Hyundai Santa Fe 2.5 GLS 8AT AWD (2024): which should you buy?
For the Filipino buyer, the choice between the Isuzu mu-X LS-A 4×4 3.0 AT (2018) at ₱2,145,000 and the Hyundai Santa Fe 2.5 GLS 8AT AWD (2024) at ₱2,540,000 hinges on budget, intended use, and preference for modernity. The mu-X is significantly cheaper by ₱395,000 and offers a diesel engine with massive torque (380 Nm) and 4WD, making it ideal for off-road, heavy towing, or frequent long-distance driving where diesel economy matters. However, it's a 2018 model with a shorter warranty (3 years/100,000 km) and lower power (177 PS). In contrast, the Santa Fe is newer (2024), has a powerful gasoline engine (194 PS), a longer warranty (5 years/200,000 km), and an 8-speed automatic for smoother daily commuting. Its unibody construction and AWD provide a more car-like ride and better on-road handling. For daily city driving or families prioritizing modern features and peace of mind, the Santa Fe is recommended. For budget-conscious buyers who need ruggedness and torque, the mu-X is the better value.
Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper?
The Isuzu mu-X is cheaper at ₱2,145,000, while the Hyundai Santa Fe is ₱2,540,000.
Which engine is more powerful?
The Santa Fe has higher horsepower (194 PS vs 177 PS), but the mu-X has significantly more torque (380 Nm vs 246 Nm), making it better for heavy pulling.
Which is better for daily commuting?
The Santa Fe, with its newer 8-speed automatic, gasoline engine, and unibody construction, likely offers a smoother and more comfortable daily commute, but official fuel efficiency data is not provided.
Which has better off-road capability?
Based on data, the mu-X's 4WD system and higher torque (380 Nm) suggest superior off-road capability compared to the Santa Fe's AWD and lower torque.