Isuzu D-Max vs Lexus NX
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 Lexus NX opens at $59,900. That makes the Isuzu D-Max the more affordable entry point by $18,657.
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 $65,890 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs are nearly identical since both have similar efficiency.
Safety Rundown
Both the Isuzu D-Max and Lexus NX hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 86% for the Isuzu D-Max and 91% for the Lexus NX.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The Lexus NX 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 Isuzu D-Max stands out with Apple CarPlay that you will not find on the Lexus NX. The Lexus NX counters with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, wireless charging, power tailgate and ambient lighting. 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 Lexus NX responds with a Petrol making 152kW and 243Nm, paired to a automatic driving all four wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 9 seconds.
The Lexus NX has the clear power advantage at 152kW vs 120kW. In the real-world sprint, the Lexus NX is 1.5s 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, 625mm longer than the Lexus NX at 4,660mm (2,690mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Isuzu D-Max generally means more rear legroom.
For towing, the Isuzu D-Max leads with a 3,500kg braked capacity vs 1,650kg. That 1,850kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.4m 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 11.4m 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 $1,739/year for the Lexus NX. That is a $171 annual difference in favour of the Lexus NX.
Estimated annual total: $1,910 (Isuzu D-Max) vs $1,739 (Lexus NX). The Lexus NX saves you roughly $171 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 4 years / 100,000km (Lexus NX). The Isuzu D-Max has longer coverage. Capped-price servicing: —4yr (Lexus NX).
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Isuzu D-Max if: You want the lower entry price, value a longer warranty, need stronger towing, or prefer Isuzu's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Lexus NX if: You prioritise performance, want lower running costs, or prefer Lexus's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
This is genuinely close. The Isuzu D-Max and Lexus NX trade blows across the spec sheet, and neither runs away with an outright win. The Lexus NX will save you roughly $171 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.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Isuzu D-Max and Lexus NX?
The Isuzu D-Max is the cheapest at $41,243 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Lexus NX by $18,657.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Lexus NX uses the least fuel at 6.1L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Isuzu D-Max and Lexus NX 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 Isuzu D-Max has the longest warranty at 6 years / 150k km.
Which is the most powerful?
The Lexus NX makes the most power at 152kW. The Lexus NX is quickest to 100km/h in 9s.
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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