Honda ZR-V 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 Honda ZR-V starts from $38,900 before on-road costs, while the Isuzu MU-X opens at $43,900. That makes the Honda ZR-V the more affordable entry point by $5,000.
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 $42,790 and $48,290 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs are nearly identical since both have similar efficiency.
Safety Rundown
Both the Honda ZR-V and Isuzu MU-X hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 79% for the Honda ZR-V and 86% for the Isuzu MU-X.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The Honda ZR-V packs more ADAS features with 8 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 7 in the Honda ZR-V and 8 in the Isuzu MU-X.
Feature Showdown
The Honda ZR-V features a 9-inch touchscreen paired with a 10.2-inch digital dash, 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 Honda ZR-V stands out with wireless charging, power tailgate and ambient lighting that you will not find on the Isuzu MU-X. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Honda ZR-V uses a Petrol producing 131kW and 187Nm of torque, sent through a cvt to a FWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 8 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 Honda ZR-V has the clear power advantage at 131kW vs 120kW. In the real-world sprint, the Honda ZR-V is 3.0s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Honda ZR-V measures 4,568mm long on a 2,655mm wheelbase, 292mm 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 339L in the Honda ZR-V and 311L in the Isuzu MU-X, giving the Honda ZR-V a 28L advantage. The Isuzu MU-X seats 7 vs 5.
For towing, the Isuzu MU-X leads with a 3,500kg braked capacity vs 1,500kg. That 2,000kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
10.4m to 11.6m
Based on 10.4m 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 $1,653/year for the Honda ZR-V and $1,824/year for the Isuzu MU-X. That is a $171 annual difference in favour of the Honda ZR-V.
Estimated annual total: $1,653 (Honda ZR-V) vs $1,824 (Isuzu MU-X). The Honda ZR-V saves you roughly $171 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 5 years / 999,999km (Honda ZR-V) vs 6 years / 150,000km (Isuzu MU-X). The Isuzu MU-X has longer coverage. Capped-price servicing: 5yr (Honda ZR-V)—.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Honda ZR-V if: You want the lower entry price, prioritise performance, need more boot space, want lower running costs, or prefer Honda's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Isuzu MU-X if: You value a longer warranty, need stronger towing, or prefer Isuzu's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Honda ZR-V takes 5 of 7 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. The Honda ZR-V will save you roughly $171 a year in fuel. The Isuzu MU-X adds peace of mind with a longer 6-year warranty. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Honda ZR-V and Isuzu MU-X?
The Honda ZR-V is the cheapest at $38,900 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Isuzu MU-X by $5,000.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Honda ZR-V uses the least fuel at 5.8L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Honda ZR-V and Isuzu MU-X all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which has the most boot space?
The Honda ZR-V has the largest boot at 339L.
Which can tow the most?
The Isuzu MU-X has the highest braked towing capacity at 3,500kg.
Which has the best warranty?
The Isuzu MU-X has the longest warranty at 6 years / 150k km.
Which is the most powerful?
The Honda ZR-V makes the most power at 131kW. The Honda ZR-V is quickest to 100km/h in 8s.
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.
Auto-generated from CarSorted's specification data · 20 April 2026
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