Isuzu D-Max vs KGM Musso
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular cars 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 KGM Musso opens at $40,500. That makes the KGM Musso the more affordable entry point by $743.
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 $44,550 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs favour the Isuzu D-Max by roughly $2,705 in fuel alone.
Safety Rundown
Both the Isuzu D-Max and KGM Musso hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The Isuzu D-Max packs more ADAS features with 3 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 1 in the KGM Musso.
Both include the essentials: a reversing camera.
Feature Showdown
Both come with modern infotainment systems. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The KGM Musso counters with ambient lighting that the Isuzu D-Max does not offer. 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 KGM Musso responds with a Turbo DDi Diesel making 133kW and 400Nm, paired to a 6-speed automatic driving the rear wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 10.9 seconds.
The KGM Musso has the clear power advantage at 133kW vs 120kW. In the real-world sprint, the Isuzu D-Max is 0.4s quicker. 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, 180mm longer than the KGM Musso at 5,105mm (3,000mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Isuzu D-Max generally means more rear legroom.
For towing, the KGM Musso 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.
12.2m to 12.5m
Based on 12.5m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 12.2m 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 $2,451/year for the KGM Musso. That is a $541 annual difference in favour of the Isuzu D-Max.
Estimated annual total: $1,910 (Isuzu D-Max) vs $2,451 (KGM Musso). The Isuzu D-Max saves you roughly $541 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 7 years / 999,999km (KGM Musso). The KGM Musso has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Isuzu D-Max if: You want lower running costs, or prefer Isuzu's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the KGM Musso if: You want the lower entry price, prioritise performance, value a longer warranty, or prefer KGM's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The KGM Musso takes 3 of 5 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. The Isuzu D-Max will save you roughly $541 a year in fuel. The KGM Musso 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.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Isuzu D-Max and KGM Musso?
The KGM Musso is the cheapest at $40,500 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Isuzu D-Max by $743.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Isuzu D-Max uses the least fuel at 6.7L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Isuzu D-Max and KGM Musso all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which can tow the most?
The Isuzu D-Max has the highest braked towing capacity at 3,500kg.
Which has the best warranty?
The KGM Musso has the longest warranty at 7 years / 1000k km.
Which is the most powerful?
The KGM Musso makes the most power at 133kW. The Isuzu D-Max is quickest to 100km/h in 10.5s.
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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