Isuzu NLR 45-150 vs GWM Cannon Alpha
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 NLR 45-150 starts from $52,900 before on-road costs, while the GWM Cannon Alpha opens at $52,990. That makes the Isuzu NLR 45-150 the more affordable entry point by $90.
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 $58,190 and $58,289 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs favour the GWM Cannon Alpha by roughly $2,280 in fuel alone.
Safety Rundown
ANCAP safety ratings have not been published for both models yet. We will update this section when crash test results are available.
Feature Showdown
The Isuzu NLR 45-150 features a 10.1-inch touchscreen, while the GWM Cannon Alpha gets a 12.3-inch display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Isuzu NLR 45-150 stands out with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and wireless charging that you will not find on the GWM Cannon Alpha. The GWM Cannon Alpha counters with Apple CarPlay. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Isuzu NLR 45-150 uses a Diesel producing 110kW and 375Nm of torque, sent through a manual to a RWD layout.
The GWM Cannon Alpha responds with a 2.4L 4-cylinder Turbo Diesel making 135kW and 480Nm, paired to a 9-speed automatic driving the rear wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 10.5 seconds.
The GWM Cannon Alpha has the clear power advantage at 135kW vs 110kW. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Isuzu NLR 45-150 measures 4,735mm long on a 2,490mm wheelbase, 710mm shorter than the GWM Cannon Alpha at 5,445mm (3,350mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the GWM Cannon Alpha generally means more rear legroom.
For towing, the Isuzu NLR 45-150 leads with a 4,000kg braked capacity vs 3,500kg. That 500kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
9.8m to 13.0m
Based on 9.8m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 13.0m 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 $2,993/year for the Isuzu NLR 45-150 and $2,537/year for the GWM Cannon Alpha. That is a $456 annual difference in favour of the GWM Cannon Alpha.
Estimated annual total: $2,993 (Isuzu NLR 45-150) vs $2,537 (GWM Cannon Alpha). The GWM Cannon Alpha saves you roughly $456 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 6 years / 250,000km (Isuzu NLR 45-150) vs 7 years / 999,999km (GWM Cannon Alpha). The GWM Cannon Alpha has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Isuzu NLR 45-150 if: You want the lower entry price, need stronger towing, or prefer Isuzu's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the GWM Cannon Alpha if: You prioritise performance, want lower running costs, value a longer warranty, or prefer GWM's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The GWM Cannon Alpha takes 3 of 5 key spec categories. The GWM Cannon Alpha will save you roughly $456 a year in fuel. The GWM Cannon Alpha adds peace of mind with a longer 7-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 NLR 45-150 and GWM Cannon Alpha?
The Isuzu NLR 45-150 is the cheapest at $52,900 before on-road costs. That undercuts the GWM Cannon Alpha by $90.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The GWM Cannon Alpha uses the least fuel at 8.9L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — GWM Cannon Alpha all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which can tow the most?
The Isuzu NLR 45-150 has the highest braked towing capacity at 4,000kg.
Which has the best warranty?
The GWM Cannon Alpha has the longest warranty at 7 years / 1000k km.
Which is the most powerful?
The GWM Cannon Alpha makes the most power at 135kW.
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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