GWM Haval H7 vs Isuzu MU-X
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular SUVs compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The GWM Haval H7 starts from $46,990 before on-road costs, while the Isuzu MU-X opens at $43,900. That makes the Isuzu MU-X the more affordable entry point by $3,090.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $51,689 and $48,290 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs are nearly identical since both have similar efficiency.
Safety Rundown
Both the GWM Haval H7 and Isuzu MU-X hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 90% for the GWM Haval H7 and 86% for the Isuzu MU-X.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The GWM Haval H7 packs more ADAS features with 7 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 6 in the Isuzu MU-X.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 6 in the GWM Haval H7 and 8 in the Isuzu MU-X. The GWM Haval H7 adds a 360-degree camera that the Isuzu MU-X misses.
Feature Showdown
The GWM Haval H7 features a 14.6-inch touchscreen, while the Isuzu MU-X gets a 8-inch display and 4.2-inch instruments. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The GWM Haval H7 stands out with head-up display, wireless charging, panoramic roof, heated front seats and power tailgate that you will not find on the Isuzu MU-X. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The GWM Haval H7 uses a Petrol producing 179kW and 530Nm of torque, sent through a auto to a FWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 7.9 seconds.
The Isuzu MU-X responds with a Diesel making 120kW and 400Nm, paired to a automatic driving the rear wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 11 seconds.
The GWM Haval H7 has the clear power advantage at 179kW vs 120kW. In the real-world sprint, the GWM Haval H7 is 3.1s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The GWM Haval H7 measures 4,760mm long on a 2,800mm wheelbase, 100mm shorter than the Isuzu MU-X at 4,860mm (2,855mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Isuzu MU-X generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 520L in the GWM Haval H7 and 311L in the Isuzu MU-X, giving the GWM Haval H7 a 209L advantage. The Isuzu MU-X seats 7 vs 5.
For towing, the Isuzu MU-X leads with a 3,500kg braked capacity vs 2,500kg. That 1,000kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.6m to 12.0m
Based on 12.0m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 11.6m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $1,682/year for the GWM Haval H7 and $1,824/year for the Isuzu MU-X. That is a $142 annual difference in favour of the GWM Haval H7.
Estimated annual total: $1,682 (GWM Haval H7) vs $1,824 (Isuzu MU-X). The GWM Haval H7 saves you roughly $142 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 7 years / 999,999km (GWM Haval H7) vs 6 years / 150,000km (Isuzu MU-X). The GWM Haval H7 has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the GWM Haval H7 if: You prioritise performance, need more boot space, want lower running costs, value a longer warranty, or prefer GWM's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Isuzu MU-X if: You want the lower entry price, need stronger towing, or prefer Isuzu's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The GWM Haval H7 takes 5 of 7 key spec categories. The GWM Haval H7 will save you roughly $142 a year in fuel. If boot space matters, the GWM Haval H7 has a clear edge. The GWM Haval H7 adds peace of mind with a longer 7-year warranty. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Published by CarSorted Editorial Team · 20 April 2026
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