Mazda BT-50 vs Isuzu D-Max
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular Utes 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.
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Price Breakdown
The Mazda BT-50 starts from $36,400 before on-road costs, while the Isuzu D-Max opens at $41,243. That makes the Mazda BT-50 the more affordable entry point by $4,843.
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 $40,040 and $45,367 respectively.
Safety Rundown
Both the Mazda BT-50 and Isuzu D-Max hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 86% for the Mazda BT-50 and 86% for the Isuzu D-Max.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. We can confirm 4 of 10 key ADAS systems on both.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 6 in the Mazda BT-50 and 8 in the Isuzu D-Max.
Feature Showdown
The Mazda BT-50 features a 7-inch touchscreen paired with a 4.2-inch digital dash, while the Isuzu D-Max gets a 8-inch display and 4.2-inch instruments. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
Drivetrain
The Mazda BT-50 uses a Diesel producing 120kW and 400Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a RWD layout.
The Isuzu D-Max responds with a Diesel making 120kW and 400Nm, paired to a automatic driving the rear wheels.
Power output is identical on paper, so the difference comes down to tuning, weight distribution, and suspension. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Mazda BT-50 measures 5,320mm long on a 3,125mm wheelbase, 20mm shorter than the Isuzu D-Max at 5,340mm (3,125mm wheelbase).
For towing, the Isuzu D-Max leads with a 3,500kg braked capacity vs 3,500kg. That 0kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
12.5m 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 12.5m 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 $1,967/year for the Mazda BT-50 and $1,967/year for the Isuzu D-Max.
Warranty: 5 years / 999,999km (Mazda BT-50) vs 6 years / 150,000km (Isuzu D-Max). The Isuzu D-Max has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Mazda BT-50 if: You want the lower entry price, or prefer Mazda's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Isuzu D-Max if: You value a longer warranty, or prefer Isuzu's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
This is genuinely close. The Mazda BT-50 and Isuzu D-Max trade blows across the spec sheet, and neither runs away with an outright win. 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.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Mazda BT-50 and Isuzu D-Max?
The Mazda BT-50 is the cheapest at $36,400 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Isuzu D-Max by $4,843.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Mazda BT-50 uses the least fuel at 6.9L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched on crash rating: Mazda BT-50 and Isuzu D-Max all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which can tow the most?
The Mazda BT-50 has the highest braked towing capacity at 3,500kg.
Which has the best warranty?
The Isuzu D-Max has the longest warranty at 6 years / 150k km.
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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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