Subaru BRZ vs Isuzu MU-X
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 Subaru BRZ starts from $43,790 before on-road costs, while the Isuzu MU-X opens at $43,900. That makes the Subaru BRZ the more affordable entry point by $110.
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 $48,169 and $48,290 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs favour the Isuzu MU-X by roughly $4,420 in fuel alone.
Safety Rundown
The Isuzu MU-X holds a 5-star ANCAP rating vs 4 stars for the Subaru BRZ.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The Isuzu MU-X packs more ADAS features with 6 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 4 in the Subaru BRZ.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 6 in the Subaru BRZ and 8 in the Isuzu MU-X.
Feature Showdown
The Subaru BRZ features a 8-inch touchscreen, while the Isuzu MU-X gets a 8-inch display and 4.2-inch instruments. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Subaru BRZ stands out with Apple CarPlay that you will not find on 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 Subaru BRZ uses a Petrol producing 174kW and 250Nm of torque, sent through a manual to a RWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 6.3 seconds.
The Isuzu MU-X responds with a Diesel making 120kW and 400Nm, paired to a automatic driving the rear wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 11 seconds.
The Subaru BRZ has the clear power advantage at 174kW vs 120kW. In the real-world sprint, the Subaru BRZ is 4.7s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Subaru BRZ measures 4,265mm long on a 2,570mm wheelbase, 595mm shorter than the Isuzu MU-X at 4,860mm (2,855mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Isuzu MU-X generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 284L in the Subaru BRZ and 311L in the Isuzu MU-X, giving the Isuzu MU-X a 27L advantage. The Isuzu MU-X seats 7 vs 4.
0Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
10.6m to 11.6m
Based on 10.6m 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
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $2,708/year for the Subaru BRZ and $1,824/year for the Isuzu MU-X. That is a $884 annual difference in favour of the Isuzu MU-X.
Estimated annual total: $2,708 (Subaru BRZ) vs $1,824 (Isuzu MU-X). The Isuzu MU-X saves you roughly $884 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 5 years / 999,999km (Subaru BRZ) vs 6 years / 150,000km (Isuzu MU-X). The Isuzu MU-X has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Subaru BRZ if: You want the lower entry price, prioritise performance, or prefer Subaru'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, or prefer Isuzu's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Isuzu MU-X takes 5 of 8 key spec categories. The Isuzu MU-X will save you roughly $884 a year in fuel. 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.
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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