Is my 2021 Isuzu MU-X burning too much oil?

Okay, here’s the bottom line: All engines use a little bit of oil. If they don’t there’s either something wrong with the oil pump, or the owner is kidding themselves and not checking the oil level correctly. Modern turbo-diesels also 'breathe' a little oil back through the engine as part of the emissions control system, and owners with an aftermarket catch-can system often find a bit of oil winds up in there instead of being burnt in the engine.

The question is how much is too much. I don’t think 700ml per 2000km is excessive and your dealer’s views will be based on the official figure from Isuzu. But in the real world, owners are reporting oil consumption of around a litre to 1.5 litres per 5000km. At which point, your engine is right on the money.

How you drive the vehicle and whether you tow a heavy load will also affect oil consumption, as will ambient temperature and the type of oil you use. It’s a fact that modern, lower-friction engines are designed to use a little oil in the name of saving fuel, and it’s something car owners need to get their head around. Keep an eye on that dipstick and you should be fine. Checking the oil on a regular basis will also tell you whether the engine’s drinking habits have changed; a much more valuable piece of knowledge to have.