Mazda CX-8 vs Isuzu MU-X
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.
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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 Mazda CX-8 and Isuzu MU-X hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 96% for the Mazda CX-8 and 86% for the Isuzu MU-X.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. We can confirm 7 of 10 key ADAS systems on the Mazda CX-8, against 6 on the Isuzu MU-X.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 6 in the Mazda CX-8 and 8 in the Isuzu MU-X.
Feature Showdown
Both come with modern infotainment systems. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Mazda CX-8 stands out with head-up display, wireless charging, heated front seats, ventilated seats, power tailgate and ambient lighting — features our data doesn't list for the Isuzu MU-X. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Mazda CX-8 lines up producing 140kW and 450Nm of torque, sent through a 6-speed automatic to a AWD layout.
The Isuzu MU-X responds with a Diesel making 120kW and 400Nm, paired to a automatic driving the rear wheels.
The Mazda CX-8 has the clear power advantage at 140kW vs 120kW. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Mazda CX-8 measures 4,925mm long on a 2,930mm wheelbase, 65mm longer than the Isuzu MU-X at 4,860mm (2,855mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Mazda CX-8 generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 209L in the Mazda CX-8 and 311L in the Isuzu MU-X, giving the Isuzu MU-X a 102L advantage. The Isuzu MU-X seats 7 vs 6.
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.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.6m 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 11.6m 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 $1,710/year for the Mazda CX-8 and $1,824/year for the Isuzu MU-X. That is a $114 annual difference in favour of the Mazda CX-8.
Warranty: 5 years (Mazda CX-8) vs 6 years / 150,000km (Isuzu MU-X). The Isuzu MU-X has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Mazda CX-8 if: You prioritise performance, want lower running costs, or prefer Mazda's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Isuzu MU-X if: You need more boot space, value a longer warranty, need stronger towing, or prefer Isuzu's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Isuzu MU-X takes 3 of 5 key spec categories. The Mazda CX-8 will save you roughly $114 a year in fuel. If boot space matters, the Isuzu MU-X 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, Mazda CX-8 and Isuzu MU-X?
The Isuzu MU-X is the cheapest at $43,900 before on-road costs.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Mazda CX-8 uses the least fuel at 6L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched on crash rating: Mazda CX-8 and Isuzu MU-X all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which has the most boot space?
The Isuzu MU-X has the largest boot at 311L.
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-8 makes the most power at 140kW.
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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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