Isuzu D-Max vs Mazda CX-5
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 Mazda CX-5 opens at $39,990. That makes the Mazda CX-5 the more affordable entry point by $1,253.
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 $43,989 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs are nearly identical since both have similar efficiency.
Safety Rundown
Both the Isuzu D-Max and Mazda CX-5 hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 86% for the Isuzu D-Max and 95% for the Mazda CX-5.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The Mazda CX-5 packs more ADAS features with 5 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.
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 Mazda CX-5 responds with a Petrol making 132kW and 242Nm, paired to a automatic driving all four wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 8.7 seconds.
The Mazda CX-5 has the clear power advantage at 132kW vs 120kW. In the real-world sprint, the Mazda CX-5 is 1.8s 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, 710mm longer than the Mazda CX-5 at 4,575mm (2,700mm 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 2,000kg. That 1,500kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.0m 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 11.0m 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 $2,109/year for the Mazda CX-5. That is a $199 annual difference in favour of the Isuzu D-Max.
Estimated annual total: $1,910 (Isuzu D-Max) vs $2,109 (Mazda CX-5). The Isuzu D-Max saves you roughly $199 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 5 years / 999,999km (Mazda CX-5). The Isuzu D-Max has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Isuzu D-Max if: You want lower running costs, value a longer warranty, need stronger towing, or prefer Isuzu's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Mazda CX-5 if: You want the lower entry price, prioritise performance, or prefer Mazda's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
This is genuinely close. The Isuzu D-Max and Mazda CX-5 trade blows across the spec sheet, and neither runs away with an outright win. The Isuzu D-Max will save you roughly $199 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.
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.
Published by CarSorted Editorial Team · 20 April 2026
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