Isuzu MU-X vs Mazda CX-7
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.
Isuzu MU-X
From $43,900
SUV
Diesel
Diesel
120kW
6.4 L/100km
5★ ANCAP
311L
Mazda CX-7
Price TBC
SUV
Petrol
2.3 litre Direct Injection Spark Ignition (DISI) turbocharged in-line 4 cylinder 16 valve DOHC
175kW
11.5 L/100km
5★ ANCAP
400L
Track the Isuzu MU-X & Mazda CX-7
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Price Breakdown
Pricing for one or both models is yet to be confirmed for the Australian market. We will update this comparison when official RRPs are announced.
Safety Rundown
Both the Isuzu MU-X and Mazda CX-7 hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. We can confirm 6 of 10 key ADAS systems on the Isuzu MU-X, against 0 on the Mazda CX-7.
Both include the essentials: a reversing camera. Airbag count is 8 in the Isuzu MU-X and 6 in the Mazda CX-7.
Feature Showdown
Both come with modern infotainment systems.
The Isuzu MU-X stands out with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto — features our data doesn't list for the Mazda CX-7. The Mazda CX-7 counters with heated front seats and Bose 240 watt 9-speaker audio. 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.
The Mazda CX-7 responds with a 2.3 litre Direct Injection Spark Ignition (DISI) turbocharged in-line 4 cylinder 16 valve DOHC making 175kW and 350Nm, paired to a 6-speed automatic driving all four wheels.
The Mazda CX-7 has the clear power advantage at 175kW vs 120kW. 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, 167mm longer than the Mazda CX-7 at 4,693mm (2,750mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Isuzu MU-X generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 311L in the Isuzu MU-X and 400L in the Mazda CX-7, giving the Mazda CX-7 a 89L advantage. The Isuzu MU-X seats 7 vs 5.
For towing, the Isuzu MU-X leads with a 3,500kg braked capacity vs 1,600kg. That 1,900kg 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
Compare U-turns side by side
Turning Circle · U-turn compare
kerb-to-kerb, 2 cars0 of 2 clear a 7.0 m street in one sweep
Green cars complete the U-turn; amber need a 3-point turn. Drag the slider to test tighter streets.
Standard widths: AU local streets ~5.5–7 m; main roads ~9–12 m.
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $1,824/year for the Isuzu MU-X and $3,278/year for the Mazda CX-7. That is a $1,454 annual difference in favour of the Isuzu MU-X.
Warranty: 6 years / 150,000km (Isuzu MU-X) vs 3 years / 999,999km (Mazda CX-7). The Isuzu MU-X has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Isuzu MU-X 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-7 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 3 of 5 key spec categories. The Isuzu MU-X will save you roughly $1,454 a year in fuel. If boot space matters, the Mazda CX-7 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 Mazda CX-7?
The Isuzu MU-X is the cheapest at $43,900 before on-road costs.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Isuzu MU-X uses the least fuel at 6.4L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched on crash rating: Isuzu MU-X and Mazda CX-7 all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which has the most boot space?
The Mazda CX-7 has the largest boot at 400L.
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 Mazda CX-7 makes the most power at 175kW.
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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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