MG Gloster vs Isuzu MU-X
The full-size SUV segment in India has become a battlefield where giants clash for supremacy. Two compelling contenders—the MG Gloster and the Isuzu MU-X—represent different philosophies in the pursuit of creating the ultimate seven-seater family SUV. While the Toyota Fortuner dominates this space, these two challengers bring their own unique strengths to the table. But which one deserves your hard-earned money in 2025? Let’s dive deep into this comprehensive comparison.
Table of Contents
The Contenders: Brief Introduction
The MG Gloster burst onto the Indian scene as a feature-packed, tech-laden alternative to the established players. It’s MG’s flagship offering that aims to redefine what buyers can expect from a full-size SUV, bringing luxury car features at a relatively accessible price point. With its imposing road presence and comprehensive equipment list, the Gloster has carved out a significant niche in this competitive segment.
The Isuzu MU-X represents Japanese engineering excellence and off-road pedigree. Built on the proven D-Max pickup platform, the MU-X is the quintessential go-anywhere SUV that prioritizes durability, reliability, and genuine off-road capability. While it may not shout about its presence, the MU-X has built a loyal following among buyers who value substance over style.
Price Comparison: Value Proposition
Pricing plays a crucial role in this segment. The MG Gloster starts at Rs. 38.33 lakh and goes up to Rs. 43.17 lakh (ex-showroom), offering multiple variants including special editions like Blackstorm, Desertstorm, and Snowstorm. The range includes both 4×2 and 4×4 options, giving buyers flexibility based on their requirements.
The Isuzu MU-X is positioned slightly lower, with prices ranging from Rs. 36.50 lakh for the 2WD variant to Rs. 39.90 lakh for the 4WD variant (ex-showroom). This makes the MU-X approximately Rs. 1-3 lakh cheaper than equivalent Gloster variants, which could be a deciding factor for budget-conscious buyers.
Both manufacturers offer attractive EMI schemes, with monthly payments starting from around Rs. 68,000-78,000, making these premium SUVs accessible to a wider audience.
Design and Dimensions: Size Matters
Exterior Styling
The MG Gloster commands attention with its massive proportions and bold design. It measures 4,985mm in length, 1,926mm in width, and 1,867mm in height, making it one of the largest SUVs in this segment. The three-slat grille, LED headlamps with integrated DRLs, and quad-tip exhausts give it an imposing road presence. The extensive use of chrome elements adds a premium touch, though some might find it excessive.
Available in colors like Agate Red, Metal Black, Deep Golden, and Warm White, the Gloster looks like it means business. The 19-inch dual-tone alloy wheels fill the wheel arches perfectly, while the 210mm ground clearance ensures it can tackle rough terrain.
The Isuzu MU-X takes a more understated approach with its design. Measuring 4,825mm long, 1,860mm wide, and 1,860mm tall, it’s slightly more compact than the Gloster but still commands respect on the road. The revised dual-chrome slat design on the front fascia gives it a muscular appearance, while the bi-LED projector headlamps provide excellent illumination.
The MU-X offers superior ground clearance at 230mm—20mm more than the Gloster—which translates to better off-road capability. It rides on 18-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels and features a cleaner, more purposeful design with minimal chrome usage. Available in colors including Galena Gray, Silky White Pearl, Red Spinal Mica, and Nautilus Blue, the MU-X appeals to buyers seeking a more subtle presence.
Interior Space and Comfort
Both SUVs offer proper three-row seating for seven occupants. The Gloster has a wheelbase of 2,950mm, while the MU-X measures 2,845mm between the wheels. This extra length gives the Gloster marginally more interior space, particularly benefiting third-row passengers.
The Gloster’s cabin features premium materials with extensive soft-touch plastics, leather upholstery, and silver inserts. The dashboard is logically laid out with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system taking center stage. Features like a panoramic sunroof, heated and ventilated massaging driver’s seat, three-zone climate control, and captain chairs in higher variants make it feel like a luxury vehicle.
The MU-X’s interior is more utilitarian but comfortable. The Lava Black leather upholstery with fine quilted stitching adds a premium touch, while soft-touch plastics and silver inserts maintain quality standards. The 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system is smaller but functional, offering Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. While it lacks some of the Gloster’s luxury touches, the MU-X compensates with robust build quality and practical design.
One key difference: the Gloster offers 343 liters of boot space with all seats up, while the MU-X provides 235 liters. However, both offer significantly more cargo capacity with the third row folded.
Performance and Powertrain: Different Philosophies
MG Gloster: Twin-Turbo Dominance
The Gloster exclusively uses a 2.0-liter four-cylinder diesel engine available in two states of tune. The base turbo variant produces 159 bhp at 4,000 rpm and 373.5 Nm of torque between 1,500-2,400 rpm. The twin-turbo version, available in higher variants, delivers an impressive 216 bhp at 4,000 rpm and a substantial 478.5 Nm of torque at 1,500-2,400 rpm.
Both engine options are mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission that provides smooth, refined shifts. The twin-turbo variant is particularly impressive, offering effortless acceleration and strong mid-range punch ideal for highway overtaking. The power delivery is progressive and linear, making the Gloster feel lighter than its 2,225 kg kerb weight suggests.
The Gloster’s fuel tank capacity stands at 75 liters, providing excellent range for long-distance touring. However, mileage is modest at around 12-15 kmpl in real-world conditions.
Isuzu MU-X: Proven Reliability
The MU-X uses a 1.9-liter four-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine producing 161 bhp (163 HP) at 3,600 rpm and 360 Nm of torque between 2,000-2,500 rpm. While these figures appear modest compared to the Gloster’s twin-turbo, the MU-X’s engine is proven, reliable, and optimized for durability.
Paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission featuring sequential shift and brake shift lock, the MU-X delivers adequate performance for daily driving and highway cruising. The engine’s strong mid-range torque ensures effortless overtaking, though it lacks the outright punch of the Gloster’s twin-turbo unit.
The MU-X achieves better fuel efficiency, delivering approximately 13 kmpl in real-world mixed driving conditions. The 55-liter fuel tank is smaller than the Gloster’s but adequate for most journeys. The lighter kerb weight of approximately 2,100 kg contributes to better fuel economy and easier maneuverability.
Off-Road Capability: Where Rubber Meets Dirt
MG Gloster: Tech-Heavy Approach
The Gloster’s 4×4 system features “All Terrain Tech” with multiple driving modes including Auto, Sport, Snow, and Lock. Recent spy shots reveal that the upcoming Gloster facelift will feature three locking differentials—front, rear, and center—giving it a massive advantage over rivals including the Toyota Fortuner, which only offers rear differential lock.
The electronically controlled four-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction on challenging terrain. Features like hill descent control, traction control, and electronic stability program work seamlessly to maintain control in difficult conditions. The 210mm ground clearance is adequate, though not class-leading.
The Gloster’s approach and departure angles are respectable, and the long-travel suspension absorbs bumps and undulations effectively. However, its sheer size and weight can make it challenging to navigate extremely tight trails.
Isuzu MU-X: Born for Adventure
This is where the MU-X truly shines. Built on a ladder-frame chassis derived from the D-Max pickup, the MU-X features genuine go-anywhere capability. The “Terrain Command” control system offers shift-on-the-fly selection between 2-high and 4-high modes at speeds up to 100 km/h.
The superior 230mm ground clearance, coupled with excellent approach and departure angles, allows the MU-X to tackle obstacles that would challenge the Gloster. The suspension setup—independent double wishbone coil with stabilizer bar at the front and penta-link coil with gas shock absorbers at the rear—is specifically tuned for off-road durability.
The MU-X’s lighter weight and more compact dimensions make it more agile on technical trails. The minimum turning radius of 5.8 meters is excellent for an SUV of this size. Off-road enthusiasts consistently rate the MU-X among the best in its segment for genuine capability beyond the pavement.
Features and Technology: Modern Conveniences
MG Gloster: Feature-Rich King
The Gloster excels in the features department, offering equipment typically found in vehicles costing significantly more. Key features include:
Comfort and Convenience:
- 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Panoramic sunroof for an airy cabin experience
- Heated, ventilated, and massaging driver’s seat with power adjustment
- Heated front passenger seat
- Three-zone automatic climate control
- 12-speaker premium audio system
- Wireless charging pad
- Keyless entry with push-button start
- Electric tailgate for easy cargo access
- Cruise control with paddle shifters
- Auto-dimming IRVM
Safety Technology:
- Level 2 ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems)
- 360-degree camera system with 11 views
- Six airbags as standard
- Electronic stability program with hill hold control
- Traction control system
- Tire pressure monitoring system
- Front and rear parking sensors
- Auto headlamps and wipers
The connected car technology suite offers geo-fencing, remote vehicle monitoring, and over-the-air updates, keeping the Gloster current with the latest features.
Isuzu MU-X: Essential and Dependable
The MU-X focuses on essential features executed well. Its equipment list includes:
Comfort Features:
- 9-inch touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
- 6-way power-adjustable driver’s seat
- Automatic climate control
- Leather upholstery
- Cruise control
- Auto-dimming IRVM
- Air purifier
- Push-button start
- Rear AC vents for all three rows
Safety Equipment:
- Six airbags
- ABS with EBD
- Electronic stability control
- Traction control
- Hill descent control
- Front and rear parking sensors
- Bi-LED projector headlamps
While the MU-X lacks some of the Gloster’s premium features like ADAS, panoramic sunroof, or ventilated seats, it compensates with proven reliability and lower complexity, which translates to easier maintenance and fewer potential issues over time.
Ride Quality and Handling: On-Road Dynamics
MG Gloster: Highway Cruiser
The Gloster excels as a highway cruiser. The long-travel suspension featuring dual helix independent suspension at the front and five-link integral suspension at the rear absorbs road imperfections with ease. The ride quality is plush and comfortable, making it ideal for long-distance touring with the family.
At highway speeds, the Gloster feels stable and planted, with minimal body roll considering its size. The steering is adequately weighted and provides decent feedback. However, in the city, the Gloster’s bulk becomes apparent. Maneuvering in tight spaces requires patience, and parking can be challenging without the 360-degree camera system.
The refined diesel engine and excellent cabin insulation ensure a quiet, serene driving experience. Wind and road noise are well-suppressed, allowing normal conversation even at highway speeds.
Isuzu MU-X: Balanced Performer
The MU-X offers a comfortable and composed ride that expertly balances on-road comfort with off-road capability. The suspension setup effectively absorbs bumps and undulations, providing a plush ride quality even over rough patches and broken roads.
Handling is predictable and stable, particularly at highway speeds. The power-assisted steering offers a good balance—light enough for easy city maneuvering yet weighted appropriately at higher speeds. The manageable turning radius makes parking and tight U-turns less stressful than in the Gloster.
The MU-X’s lighter weight contributes to better agility in traffic. While it doesn’t match the Gloster’s isolation levels, the cabin remains reasonably quiet with acceptable noise suppression. The driving experience emphasizes capability and confidence rather than outright luxury.
Ownership Experience: Long-Term Perspective
Maintenance and Service
MG offers a comprehensive 3-year/100,000 km warranty on the Gloster, with extended warranty options available. The brand is rapidly expanding its service network across India, though it doesn’t yet match the coverage of more established players. Service costs are reasonable for a vehicle of this size, with scheduled maintenance typically costing around Rs. 26,000-30,000 for a 5-year period.
Isuzu provides an impressive 5-year/150,000 km warranty on the MU-X, demonstrating confidence in the vehicle’s durability. The Japanese brand’s reputation for reliability is well-earned, with the 1.9-liter engine proven across thousands of vehicles globally. Service costs are marginally lower than the Gloster at approximately Rs. 9,884 for a 5-year period, though the service network is more limited, primarily focused in major cities.
Resale Value
The Gloster is still relatively new to the market, so long-term resale trends remain to be established. However, MG’s aggressive pricing and feature-rich offerings typically result in faster initial depreciation compared to established brands like Toyota.
The MU-X benefits from Isuzu’s reputation for building durable, long-lasting vehicles. While not as popular as the Fortuner, the MU-X holds its value reasonably well, particularly among enthusiasts who appreciate its off-road capability and reliability.
Safety Standards: Protection Priorities
Both SUVs take safety seriously, though they approach it differently. The Gloster emphasizes active safety with Level 2 ADAS features including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, autonomous emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The 360-degree camera with 11 different views makes navigating tight spaces significantly easier.
Six airbags, electronic stability program, traction control, and a strong body structure provide comprehensive passive safety. The Gloster’s high-strength steel construction and strategic crumple zones ensure excellent crash protection.
The MU-X focuses on proven passive safety technology with six airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control, and traction control. The ladder-frame chassis provides inherent structural strength, while the robust construction prioritizes durability in challenging conditions. Hill descent control adds confidence when navigating steep declines.
While the MU-X lacks ADAS features, its simpler safety systems are proven, reliable, and less prone to requiring expensive recalibration after minor accidents.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the MG Gloster if:
- You prioritize maximum features and technology
- Level 2 ADAS and advanced safety features are important
- You want the most spacious cabin and boot space
- Highway touring comfort is your primary concern
- Twin-turbo power delivery appeals to you
- Premium luxury touches matter more than off-road capability
- You prefer having the latest connected car technology
Choose the Isuzu MU-X if:
- Genuine off-road capability is essential
- You value proven reliability over cutting-edge tech
- Lower running costs and better fuel economy matter
- You prefer understated design over bold statements
- Superior ground clearance is important for your driving conditions
- You want a more agile, easier-to-maneuver SUV
- Long-term durability is your priority
- A longer warranty period provides peace of mind
The Verdict: Different Strengths for Different Needs
In the battle between the MG Gloster and Isuzu MU-X, there’s no absolute winner—both excel in different areas. The MG Gloster emerges as the feature-packed, technology-forward option that brings luxury car amenities to the full-size SUV segment. With its twin-turbo power, comprehensive ADAS suite, and extensive equipment list, the Gloster offers exceptional value for buyers prioritizing comfort and technology.
The Isuzu MU-X stands tall as the authentic off-roader built to last. Its proven 1.9-liter engine, superior ground clearance, robust ladder-frame construction, and genuine go-anywhere capability make it ideal for adventure-seeking families. The lower price point, better fuel economy, and impressive warranty add to its appeal.
Your decision should align with your priorities: choose the Gloster for a premium, feature-rich experience that excels on highways and urban roads, or opt for the MU-X for a durable, capable SUV that confidently tackles any terrain while delivering reliable service for years to come.
Both SUVs represent excellent choices in the full-size segment, offering three-row practicality, strong diesel engines, and comprehensive safety features. Whether you prioritize technological sophistication or rugged capability, both the MG Gloster and Isuzu MU-X deliver compelling packages that challenge the segment leader while offering distinct personalities and value propositions.
