Isuzu D-Max vs KGM Musso EV
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 EV opens at $60,000. That makes the Isuzu D-Max the more affordable entry point by $18,757.
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 $66,000 respectively.
The KGM Musso EV qualifies for FBT exemption as an electric vehicle, which can dramatically reduce the effective cost for novated lease buyers. The Isuzu D-Max, as a petrol model, does not qualify.
Safety Rundown
Both the Isuzu D-Max and KGM Musso EV hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The KGM Musso EV packs more ADAS features with 7 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. The KGM Musso EV adds a 360-degree camera that the Isuzu D-Max misses.
Feature Showdown
Both come with modern infotainment systems. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The KGM Musso EV counters with heated front seats, ventilated seats, V2L and 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 EV responds with a Electric making 152kW and 339Nm, paired to a 1-speed driving the rear wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 10.9 seconds.
The KGM Musso EV has the clear power advantage at 152kW 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, 125mm longer than the KGM Musso EV at 5,160mm (3,150mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the KGM Musso EV generally means more rear legroom.
For towing, the Isuzu D-Max leads with a 3,500kg braked capacity vs 1,800kg. That 1,700kg 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
Running cost data is not yet available for both models. We will update when figures are confirmed.
Warranty: 6 years / 150,000km (Isuzu D-Max) vs 7 years / 999,999km (KGM Musso EV). The KGM Musso EV has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Isuzu D-Max if: You want the lower entry price, need stronger towing, or prefer Isuzu's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the KGM Musso EV if: You prioritise performance, value a longer warranty, or prefer KGM's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
This is genuinely close. The Isuzu D-Max and KGM Musso EV trade blows across the spec sheet, and neither runs away with an outright win. The KGM Musso EV 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 EV?
The Isuzu D-Max is the cheapest at $41,243 before on-road costs. That undercuts the KGM Musso EV by $18,757.
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 EV 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 EV has the longest warranty at 7 years / 1000k km.
Which is the most powerful?
The KGM Musso EV makes the most power at 152kW. 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
Comments (0)
Sign in to join the conversation
No comments yet. Be the first!
