Isuzu D-Max vs Ford Ranger
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular Cab Chassiss 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 Isuzu D-Max starts from $41,243 before on-road costs, while the Ford Ranger opens at $37,130. That makes the Ford Ranger the more affordable entry point by $4,113.
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 $45,367 and $40,843 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs are nearly identical since both have similar efficiency.
Safety Rundown
Both the Isuzu D-Max and Ford Ranger hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 86% for the Isuzu D-Max and 84% for the Ford Ranger.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The Ford Ranger packs more ADAS features with 5 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 3 in the Isuzu D-Max.
Both include the essentials: lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera.
Feature Showdown
Both come with modern infotainment systems. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Isuzu D-Max stands out with Apple CarPlay that you will not find on the Ford Ranger. The Ford Ranger counters with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Isuzu D-Max uses a Diesel producing 120kW and 400Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a RWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 10.5 seconds.
The Ford Ranger responds with a Diesel Turbo making 125kW and 405Nm, paired to a automatic driving the rear wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 10.5 seconds.
The Ford Ranger has the clear power advantage at 125kW vs 120kW. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Isuzu D-Max measures 5,285mm long on a 3,125mm wheelbase, 60mm longer than the Ford Ranger at 5,225mm (3,270mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Ford Ranger generally means more rear legroom.
For towing, the Ford Ranger leads with a 3,500kg braked capacity vs 3,500kg. That 0kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
12.5m to 12.9m
Based on 12.5m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 12.9m 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 $1,910/year for the Isuzu D-Max and $1,967/year for the Ford Ranger. That is a $57 annual difference in favour of the Isuzu D-Max.
Estimated annual total: $1,910 (Isuzu D-Max) vs $1,967 (Ford Ranger). The Isuzu D-Max saves you roughly $57 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 6 years / 150,000km (Isuzu D-Max) vs 5 years / 999,999km (Ford Ranger). The Isuzu D-Max has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Isuzu D-Max if: You want lower running costs, value a longer warranty, or prefer Isuzu's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Ford Ranger if: You want the lower entry price, prioritise performance, or prefer Ford's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
This is genuinely close. The Isuzu D-Max and Ford Ranger trade blows across the spec sheet, and neither runs away with an outright win. The Isuzu D-Max will save you roughly $57 a year in fuel. The Isuzu D-Max 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.
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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