Isuzu D-Max vs Kia Tasman
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular Utes 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.
Data checked: specs 27 Sep 2026, price 6 Sep 2026
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Price Breakdown
The Isuzu D-Max starts from $41,243 before on-road costs, while the Kia Tasman opens at $42,990. That makes the Isuzu D-Max the more affordable entry point by $1,747.
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 $47,289 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs are nearly identical since both have similar efficiency.
Safety Rundown
Both the Isuzu D-Max and Kia Tasman hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 86% for the Isuzu D-Max and 87% for the Kia Tasman.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. We can confirm 6 of 10 key ADAS systems on the Kia Tasman, against 4 on the Isuzu D-Max.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 8 in the Isuzu D-Max and 7 in the Kia Tasman.
Recalls on our record
Isuzu D-Max
- REC-006053 · published 8 Aug 2024The fuel delivery hose may have been installed incorrectly and come into contact with the engine oil level gauge bracket resulting in premature wear.Year range on the notice: 2020 - 2023
- REC-006052 · published 8 Aug 2024Due to a software issue, the Engine Control Module (ECM) may incorrectly reduce the engine speed.Year range on the notice: 2020 - 2024
- REC-005842 · published 28 Nov 2023Due to a manufacturing issue, the fuel hose may chafe against the engine oil level bracket and become damaged.Year range on the notice: 2021 - 2023
- 5 more on the model page.
Kia Tasman
- REC-006557 · published 6 Mar 2026Due to a software error, the Instrument Cluster may display a blank screen or may not operate as intended.Year range on the notice: 2025
A recall covers the builds its notice lists, not every car of a model. Check your VIN at vehiclerecalls.gov.au.
Feature Showdown
The Isuzu D-Max features a 8-inch touchscreen paired with a 4.2-inch digital dash, while the Kia Tasman gets a 12.3-inch display and 12.3-inch instruments. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Isuzu D-Max stands out with Apple CarPlay — features our data doesn't list for the Kia Tasman. The Kia Tasman counters with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and power tailgate. 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.
The Kia Tasman responds with a Diesel making 154kW and 440Nm, paired to a automatic driving the rear wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 12.5 seconds.
The Kia Tasman has the clear power advantage at 154kW 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 5,340mm long on a 3,125mm wheelbase, 70mm shorter than the Kia Tasman at 5,410mm (3,270mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Kia Tasman generally means more rear legroom.
For towing, the Kia Tasman 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.
12.3m 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 12.3m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
Compare U-turns side by side
Turning Circle · U-turn compare
kerb-to-kerb, 2 cars0 of 2 clear a 7.0 m street in one sweep
Green cars complete the U-turn; amber need a 3-point turn. Drag the slider to test tighter streets.
Standard widths: AU local streets ~5.5–7 m; main roads ~9–12 m.
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $1,967/year for the Isuzu D-Max and $2,109/year for the Kia Tasman. That is a $142 annual difference in favour of the Isuzu D-Max.
Warranty: 6 years / 150,000km (Isuzu D-Max) vs 7 years / 999,999km (Kia Tasman). The Kia Tasman has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Isuzu D-Max if: You want the lower entry price, want lower running costs, or prefer Isuzu's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Kia Tasman if: You prioritise performance, value a longer warranty, or prefer Kia's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
Kia Tasman: Top CarSorted Score, 72 vs 70, but the Isuzu D-Max is $1,747 cheaper
The Kia Tasman comes out ahead on the CarSorted Score (72 vs 70), taking 2 of 4 key spec rows below. The deciding gaps: technology (Kia Tasman ahead by 23), performance (Isuzu D-Max ahead by 7), practicality (Kia Tasman ahead by 6). The Isuzu D-Max will save you roughly $142 a year in fuel. The Kia Tasman 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.
One enquiry, local dealers' best price on each. Free for you to use. If you buy, the dealer may pay us a commission.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Isuzu D-Max and Kia Tasman?
The Isuzu D-Max is the cheapest at $41,243 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Kia Tasman by $1,747.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Isuzu D-Max uses the least fuel at 6.9L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched on crash rating: Isuzu D-Max and Kia Tasman 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 Kia Tasman has the longest warranty at 7 years / Unlimited.
Which is the most powerful?
The Kia Tasman makes the most power at 154kW.
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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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