RAM 1500 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 RAM 1500 starts from $119,950 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 $78,707.
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 $131,945 and $45,367 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs favour the Isuzu D-Max by roughly $9,120 in fuel alone.
Safety Rundown
The Isuzu D-Max holds a 5-star ANCAP rating vs 3 stars for the RAM 1500.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The RAM 1500 packs more ADAS features with 5 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 3 in the Isuzu D-Max.
Both include the essentials: lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera.
Feature Showdown
Both come with modern infotainment systems. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The RAM 1500 stands out with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, heated front seats and power tailgate that you will not find on the Isuzu D-Max. The Isuzu D-Max counters with Apple CarPlay. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The RAM 1500 uses a Petrol V8 producing 291kW and 556Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a 4WD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 7.5 seconds.
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 RAM 1500 has the clear power advantage at 291kW vs 120kW. In the real-world sprint, the RAM 1500 is 3.0s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The RAM 1500 measures 5,916mm long on a 3,672mm wheelbase, 631mm longer than the Isuzu D-Max at 5,285mm (3,125mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the RAM 1500 generally means more rear legroom.
For towing, the RAM 1500 leads with a 4,500kg braked capacity vs 3,500kg. That 1,000kg 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 14.4m
Based on 14.4m 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 $3,734/year for the RAM 1500 and $1,910/year for the Isuzu D-Max. That is a $1,824 annual difference in favour of the Isuzu D-Max.
Estimated annual total: $3,734 (RAM 1500) vs $1,910 (Isuzu D-Max). The Isuzu D-Max saves you roughly $1,824 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 3 years / 100,000km (RAM 1500) vs 6 years / 150,000km (Isuzu D-Max). The Isuzu D-Max has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the RAM 1500 if: You prioritise performance, need stronger towing, or prefer RAM's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Isuzu D-Max if: You want the lower entry price, 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 7 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. The Isuzu D-Max will save you roughly $1,824 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.
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.
Published by CarSorted Editorial Team · 20 April 2026
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