Suzuki S-Cross 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.
Price Breakdown
The Suzuki S-Cross starts from $43,490 before on-road costs, while the Isuzu MU-X opens at $43,900. That makes the Suzuki S-Cross the more affordable entry point by $410.
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 $47,839 and $48,290 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs favour the Suzuki S-Cross by roughly $1,425 in fuel alone.
Safety Rundown
Both the Suzuki S-Cross and Isuzu MU-X hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. Both models are evenly matched with 6 out of 10 key ADAS systems.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 6 in the Suzuki S-Cross and 8 in the Isuzu MU-X.
Feature Showdown
The Suzuki S-Cross features a 9-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 Suzuki S-Cross stands out with wireless charging and power tailgate that you will not find on the Isuzu MU-X. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Suzuki S-Cross uses a Petrol producing 95kW and 220Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a AWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 10.5 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 Isuzu MU-X has the clear power advantage at 120kW vs 95kW. In the real-world sprint, the Suzuki S-Cross is 0.5s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Suzuki S-Cross measures 4,300mm long on a 2,600mm wheelbase, 560mm 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 430L in the Suzuki S-Cross and 311L in the Isuzu MU-X, giving the Suzuki S-Cross a 119L advantage. The Isuzu MU-X seats 7 vs 5.
For towing, the Isuzu MU-X leads with a 3,500kg braked capacity vs 1,500kg. That 2,000kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
10.4m to 11.6m
Based on 10.4m 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
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $1,539/year for the Suzuki S-Cross and $1,824/year for the Isuzu MU-X. That is a $285 annual difference in favour of the Suzuki S-Cross.
Estimated annual total: $1,539 (Suzuki S-Cross) vs $1,824 (Isuzu MU-X). The Suzuki S-Cross saves you roughly $285 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 3 years / 100,000km (Suzuki S-Cross) vs 6 years / 150,000km (Isuzu MU-X). The Isuzu MU-X has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Suzuki S-Cross if: You want the lower entry price, need more boot space, want lower running costs, or prefer Suzuki's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Isuzu MU-X if: You prioritise performance, value a longer warranty, need stronger towing, or prefer Isuzu's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Suzuki S-Cross takes 4 of 7 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. The Suzuki S-Cross will save you roughly $285 a year in fuel. If boot space matters, the Suzuki S-Cross 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.
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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