Mazda CX-9 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
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 Mazda CX-9 features a 7-inch touchscreen, while the Isuzu MU-X gets a 8-inch display and 4.2-inch instruments.
The Mazda CX-9 stands out with heated front seats and power tailgate — features our data doesn't list for the Isuzu MU-X. The Isuzu MU-X counters with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Mazda CX-9 lines up producing 204kW and 367Nm of torque, sent through a 6-speed automatic (activematic) 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-9 has the clear power advantage at 204kW vs 120kW. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Mazda CX-9 measures 5,099mm long on a 2,875mm wheelbase, 239mm longer than the Isuzu MU-X at 4,860mm (2,855mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Mazda CX-9 generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 267L in the Mazda CX-9 and 311L in the Isuzu MU-X, giving the Isuzu MU-X a 44L advantage. Fold the rears and you get 928L vs 2138L.
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.
11.4m to 11.6m
Based on 11.4m 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 $3,192/year for the Mazda CX-9 and $1,824/year for the Isuzu MU-X. That is a $1,368 annual difference in favour of the Isuzu MU-X.
Warranty: 3 years (Mazda CX-9) vs 6 years / 150,000km (Isuzu MU-X). The Isuzu MU-X has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Mazda CX-9 if: You prioritise performance, or prefer Mazda's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Isuzu MU-X if: You need more boot space, want lower running costs, value a longer warranty, need stronger towing, or prefer Isuzu's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Isuzu MU-X takes 4 of 5 key spec categories. The Isuzu MU-X will save you roughly $1,368 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-9 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 Isuzu MU-X uses the least fuel at 6.4L/100km on the combined cycle.
What are the ANCAP safety ratings?
Isuzu MU-X holds a 5-star ANCAP rating. We have no published ANCAP rating for Mazda CX-9, so there is nothing to compare on crash performance. Compare the active-safety features above instead.
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-9 makes the most power at 204kW.
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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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