Isuzu D-Max vs LDV Terron 9
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 LDV Terron 9 opens at $50,990. That makes the Isuzu D-Max the more affordable entry point by $9,747.
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 $56,089 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs favour the Isuzu D-Max by roughly $1,710 in fuel alone.
Safety Rundown
Both the Isuzu D-Max and LDV Terron 9 hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 86% for the Isuzu D-Max and 91% for the LDV Terron 9.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The LDV Terron 9 packs more ADAS features with 6 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 LDV Terron 9 counters with MG Sound audio 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 LDV Terron 9 responds with a Diesel Turbo making 163kW and 520Nm, paired to a automatic driving the rear wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 10.8 seconds.
The LDV Terron 9 has the clear power advantage at 163kW vs 120kW. In the real-world sprint, the Isuzu D-Max is 0.3s 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, 215mm shorter than the LDV Terron 9 at 5,500mm (3,300mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the LDV Terron 9 generally means more rear legroom.
For towing, the LDV Terron 9 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 13.3m
Based on 12.5m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 13.3m 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 $2,252/year for the LDV Terron 9. That is a $342 annual difference in favour of the Isuzu D-Max.
Estimated annual total: $1,910 (Isuzu D-Max) vs $2,252 (LDV Terron 9). The Isuzu D-Max saves you roughly $342 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 / 200,000km (LDV Terron 9). The LDV Terron 9 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 LDV Terron 9 if: You prioritise performance, value a longer warranty, or prefer LDV's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Isuzu D-Max takes 3 of 5 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. The Isuzu D-Max will save you roughly $342 a year in fuel. The LDV Terron 9 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 LDV Terron 9?
The Isuzu D-Max is the cheapest at $41,243 before on-road costs. That undercuts the LDV Terron 9 by $9,747.
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 LDV Terron 9 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 LDV Terron 9 has the longest warranty at 7 years / 200k km.
Which is the most powerful?
The LDV Terron 9 makes the most power at 163kW. 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!
