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Mazda CX-9 vs Isuzu MU-X

What's the difference?

VS
Mazda CX-9
Mazda CX-9

$33,990 - $59,990

2021 price

Isuzu MU-X
Isuzu MU-X

$46,888 - $77,988

2023 price

Summary

2021 Mazda CX-9
2023 Isuzu MU-X
Safety Rating

Engine Type
Turbo 4, 2.5L

Diesel Turbo 4, 3.0L
Fuel Type
Unleaded Petrol

Diesel
Fuel Efficiency
8.4L/100km (combined)

8.3L/100km (combined)
Seating
7

7
Dislikes
  • Expensive AWD option
  • Six-seater's compromises
  • Older ANCAP safety rating

  • Firm ride
  • Missing some items for the price
  • Missing a few tech items
2021 Mazda CX-9 Summary

The second-generation Mazda CX-9 may have been on sale in Australia for nearly five years now, but it remains the second best-selling large SUV using unibody construction (as opposed to old-school, off-road-focused body-on-frame).

That said, it is getting on a bit, so Mazda’s given it an update with a twist for 2021, hoping to inject a little bit more life into its flagship model.

And when we say twist, we mean it. After all, who would’ve thought there’d ever be a six-seat CX-9? Well, we’ve checked it out to see if it’s the version we needed all along. Read on.

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2023 Isuzu MU-X Summary

If you love the Isuzu D-Max ute but need some extra boot space and seating for the family, then the MU-X is your ride. It's roughly the same price, so you don't feel like you're getting stung for needing those extra features, either.

It's got some competition with the Mitsubishi Pajero Sport and new Ford Everest, as well as the Toyota Fortuner, but the four-wheel-drive capabilities and family friendly interior means the MU-X more than holds its own.

I'm beginning to understand why Isuzu doesn't bother having any more than two horses in its stable...

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Deep dive comparison

2021 Mazda CX-9 2023 Isuzu MU-X

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