Mazda MX-5 vs Isuzu D-Max
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 Mazda MX-5 starts from $41,520 before on-road costs, while the Isuzu D-Max opens at $41,243. That makes the Isuzu D-Max the more affordable entry point by $277.
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 $45,672 and $45,367 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs are nearly identical since both have similar efficiency.
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 MX-5 features a 8.8-inch touchscreen, while the Isuzu D-Max gets a 8-inch display and 4.2-inch instruments.
The Isuzu D-Max counters with Apple CarPlay that the Mazda MX-5 does not offer. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Mazda MX-5 lines up producing 97kW and 152Nm of torque, sent through a 6-speed manual to a RWD layout.
The Isuzu D-Max responds with a Diesel making 120kW and 400Nm, paired to a automatic driving the rear wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 10.5 seconds.
The Isuzu D-Max has the clear power advantage at 120kW vs 97kW. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Mazda MX-5 measures 3,915mm long on a 2,310mm wheelbase, 1370mm shorter than the Isuzu D-Max at 5,285mm (3,125mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Isuzu D-Max generally means more rear legroom.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
9.4m to 12.5m
Based on 9.4m 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
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $1,938/year for the Mazda MX-5 and $1,910/year for the Isuzu D-Max. That is a $28 annual difference in favour of the Isuzu D-Max.
Estimated annual total: $1,938 (Mazda MX-5) vs $1,910 (Isuzu D-Max). The Isuzu D-Max saves you roughly $28 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 5 years / 999,999km (Mazda MX-5) vs 6 years / 150,000km (Isuzu D-Max). The Isuzu D-Max has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Mazda MX-5 if: You or prefer Mazda's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Isuzu D-Max if: You want the lower entry price, prioritise performance, want lower running costs, value a longer warranty, or prefer Isuzu's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Isuzu D-Max takes 4 of 4 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. The Isuzu D-Max will save you roughly $28 a year in fuel. 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 MX-5 and Isuzu D-Max?
The Isuzu D-Max is the cheapest at $41,243 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Mazda MX-5 by $277.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Isuzu D-Max uses the least fuel at 6.7L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — 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 Isuzu D-Max 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.
Which is the most powerful?
The Isuzu D-Max makes the most power at 120kW.
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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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