Isuzu D-Max vs Mercedes-Benz GLA
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 Isuzu D-Max starts from $41,243 before on-road costs, while the Mercedes-Benz GLA opens at $58,900. That makes the Isuzu D-Max the more affordable entry point by $17,657.
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 $45,367 and $64,790 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs favour the Mercedes-Benz GLA by roughly $1,000 in fuel alone.
Safety Rundown
Both the Isuzu D-Max and Mercedes-Benz GLA hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 86% for the Isuzu D-Max and 96% for the Mercedes-Benz GLA.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The Mercedes-Benz GLA packs more ADAS features with 6 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 Isuzu D-Max stands out with Apple CarPlay that you will not find on the Mercedes-Benz GLA. The Mercedes-Benz GLA counters with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and ambient lighting. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Isuzu D-Max uses a Diesel producing 120kW and 400Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a RWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 10.5 seconds.
The Mercedes-Benz GLA responds with a Petrol making 120kW and 250Nm, paired to a automatic driving the front wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 9.1 seconds.
Power output is identical on paper, so the difference comes down to tuning, weight distribution, and suspension. In the real-world sprint, the Mercedes-Benz GLA is 1.4s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Isuzu D-Max measures 5,285mm long on a 3,125mm wheelbase, 874mm longer than the Mercedes-Benz GLA at 4,411mm (2,729mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Isuzu D-Max generally means more rear legroom.
For towing, the Isuzu D-Max 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.
11.0m to 12.5m
Based on 12.5m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 11.0m 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 $1,910/year for the Isuzu D-Max and $1,710/year for the Mercedes-Benz GLA. That is a $200 annual difference in favour of the Mercedes-Benz GLA.
Estimated annual total: $1,910 (Isuzu D-Max) vs $1,710 (Mercedes-Benz GLA). The Mercedes-Benz GLA saves you roughly $200 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 6 years / 150,000km (Isuzu D-Max) vs 5 years / 999,999km (Mercedes-Benz GLA). The Isuzu D-Max has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Isuzu D-Max if: You want the lower entry price, value a longer warranty, need stronger towing, or prefer Isuzu's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Mercedes-Benz GLA if: You want lower running costs, or prefer Mercedes-Benz's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Isuzu D-Max takes 3 of 5 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. The Mercedes-Benz GLA will save you roughly $200 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, Isuzu D-Max and Mercedes-Benz GLA?
The Isuzu D-Max is the cheapest at $41,243 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Mercedes-Benz GLA by $17,657.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Mercedes-Benz GLA uses the least fuel at 6L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Isuzu D-Max and Mercedes-Benz GLA 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.
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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