Isuzu MU-X vs Mazda CX-60
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 Mazda CX-60 opens at $44,240. That makes the Isuzu MU-X the more affordable entry point by $340.
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 $48,664 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs are nearly identical since both have similar efficiency.
Safety Rundown
Both the Isuzu MU-X and Mazda CX-60 hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 86% for the Isuzu MU-X and 91% for the Mazda CX-60.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The Isuzu MU-X packs more ADAS features with 6 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 3 in the Mazda CX-60.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 8 in the Isuzu MU-X and 6 in the Mazda CX-60.
Feature Showdown
The Isuzu MU-X features a 8-inch touchscreen paired with a 4.2-inch digital dash, while the Mazda CX-60 gets a 10.3-inch display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Isuzu MU-X stands out with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto that you will not find on the Mazda CX-60. The Mazda CX-60 counters with Apple CarPlay. 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 Mazda CX-60 lines up making 138kW and 250Nm, paired to a automatic driving the rear wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 7.4 seconds.
The Mazda CX-60 has the clear power advantage at 138kW vs 120kW. In the real-world sprint, the Mazda CX-60 is 3.6s 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, 115mm longer than the Mazda CX-60 at 4,745mm (2,870mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Mazda CX-60 generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 311L in the Isuzu MU-X and 570L in the Mazda CX-60, giving the Mazda CX-60 a 259L advantage. The Isuzu MU-X seats 7 vs 5.
For towing, the Isuzu MU-X leads with a 3,500kg braked capacity vs 2,000kg. That 1,500kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $1,824/year for the Isuzu MU-X and $1,910/year for the Mazda CX-60. That is a $86 annual difference in favour of the Isuzu MU-X.
Estimated annual total: $1,824 (Isuzu MU-X) vs $1,910 (Mazda CX-60). The Isuzu MU-X saves you roughly $86 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 5 years (Mazda CX-60). The Isuzu MU-X has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Isuzu MU-X if: You want the lower entry price, 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-60 if: You prioritise performance, need more boot space, or prefer Mazda's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Isuzu MU-X takes 4 of 7 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. The Isuzu MU-X will save you roughly $86 a year in fuel. If boot space matters, the Mazda CX-60 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.
Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (18 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 · 18 April 2026
Comments (0)
Sign in to join the conversation
No comments yet. Be the first!