Isuzu MU-X vs Lexus NX
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular SUVs 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 MU-X starts from $43,900 before on-road costs, while the Lexus NX opens at $59,900. That makes the Isuzu MU-X the more affordable entry point by $16,000.
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 $48,290 and $65,890 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs are nearly identical since both have similar efficiency.
Safety Rundown
Both the Isuzu MU-X and Lexus NX hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 86% for the Isuzu MU-X and 91% for the Lexus NX.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. Both models are evenly matched with 6 out of 10 key ADAS systems.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 8 in the Isuzu MU-X and 8 in the Lexus NX.
Feature Showdown
The Isuzu MU-X features a 8-inch touchscreen paired with a 4.2-inch digital dash, while the Lexus NX gets a 14-inch display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Lexus NX counters with wireless charging, power tailgate and ambient lighting that the Isuzu MU-X does not offer. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Isuzu MU-X 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 11 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 2.0s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Isuzu MU-X measures 4,860mm long on a 2,855mm wheelbase, 200mm longer than the Lexus NX at 4,660mm (2,690mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Isuzu MU-X generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 311L in the Isuzu MU-X and 520L in the Lexus NX, giving the Lexus NX a 209L advantage. The Isuzu MU-X seats 7 vs 5.
For towing, the Isuzu MU-X 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 11.6m
Based on 11.6m 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 $1,824/year for the Isuzu MU-X and $1,739/year for the Lexus NX. That is a $85 annual difference in favour of the Lexus NX.
Estimated annual total: $1,824 (Isuzu MU-X) vs $1,739 (Lexus NX). The Lexus NX saves you roughly $85 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 6 years / 150,000km (Isuzu MU-X) vs 4 years / 100,000km (Lexus NX). The Isuzu MU-X has longer coverage. Capped-price servicing: —4yr (Lexus NX).
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Isuzu MU-X 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, need more boot space, want lower running costs, or prefer Lexus's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Lexus NX takes 4 of 7 key spec categories. The Lexus NX will save you roughly $85 a year in fuel. If boot space matters, the Lexus NX has a clear edge. The Isuzu MU-X 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 MU-X and Lexus NX?
The Isuzu MU-X is the cheapest at $43,900 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Lexus NX by $16,000.
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 MU-X and Lexus NX all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which has the most boot space?
The Lexus NX has the largest boot at 520L.
Which can tow the most?
The Isuzu MU-X has the highest braked towing capacity at 3,500kg.
Which has the best warranty?
The Isuzu MU-X 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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