Mazda MX-5 RF 2.0 SkyActiv AT with Nappa Leather Interior (2017) vs Isuzu mu-X LS-A 4×4 3.0 AT (2018)
A full spec-by-spec comparison of Mazda MX-5 RF 2.0 SkyActiv AT with Nappa Leather Interior (2017) vs Isuzu mu-X LS-A 4×4 3.0 AT (2018) — engine, performance, dimensions, features and price, with the differences highlighted to help you decide.
| Specification | Mazda MX-5 RF 2.0 SkyActiv AT with Nappa Leather Interior (2017) Mazda ₱2,280,000 | Isuzu mu-X LS-A 4×4 3.0 AT (2018) Isuzu ₱2,145,000 |
|---|---|---|
| Overview | ||
| Model Year | 2017 | 2018 |
| Warranty | 100,000km/3-years | 100,000 km/3-years |
| Availability | Current | Current |
| Engine & Drivetrain | ||
| Engine Type | Inline-4 | Inline-4 |
| Displacement | 1998cc | 2999cc |
| Valvetrain | DOHC 16-valve | DOHC 16-valve |
| Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated, S-VT | Turbo Intercooler |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Diesel |
| Max Power | 160 PS @ 6000 rpm | 177 PS @ 3550 - 3650 rpm |
| Max Torque | 200 Nm @ 4600 rpm | 380 Nm @ 1800-2800 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-Speed A/T | 6-Speed A/T |
| Drivetrain | RWD | 4WD |
| Body & Dimensions | ||
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Segment | S | J |
| Construction | Unibody | — |
| Doors | 2 | 4 |
| Seating Capacity | 2 | 2+3+2 |
| Length (mm) | 3915 | 4825 |
| Width (mm) | 1735 | 1860 |
| Height (mm) | 1230 | 1840 |
| Wheelbase (mm) | 2310 | 2845 |
| Curb Weight (kg) | 1063 | — |
| Fuel Tank (L) | — | 65 |
| Chassis, Wheels & Brakes | ||
| Front Suspension | Double Wishbone | Independent Double Wish bone with coil spring and stabilizer |
| Rear Suspension | Independent Multi-Link | 5-Link Coil Spring with Stabilizer |
| Front Wheels | 17x7.0-inch alloys | 18 Alloy |
| Rear Wheels | 17x7.0-inch alloys | 18 Alloy |
| Front Tires | 205/45/R17 | 255/60 R18 |
| Rear Tires | 205/45/R17 | 255/60 R18 |
| Front Brakes | Disc | Disc |
| Rear Brakes | Disc | Disc |
| Steering Type | hydraulic | Power Asisted |
| Steering Column | tilt | Tilt & Telescopic |
| Tire Pressure Monitoring | No | No |
| Differential Lock | No | No |
| Safety | ||
| Anti-lock Braking (ABS) | Yes | Yes |
| Electronic Brakeforce Distribution | Yes | Yes |
| Brake Assist | No | Yes |
| Parking Sensors | No | Yes |
| Stability Control | No | Yes |
| Traction Control | No | Yes |
| Vehicle Dynamic Control | No | No |
| Forward Collision Mitigation | No | No |
| Blind Spot Warning | No | No |
| Hill Start Assist | No | Yes |
| Hill Descent Control | No | Yes |
| Auto Stop/Start | No | No |
| Driver Airbag | No | Yes |
| Knee Airbag | No | No |
| Passenger Airbag | No | Yes |
| Front Curtain Airbags | No | No |
| Rear Curtain Airbags | No | No |
| Rear Side Airbags | No | No |
| Engine Immobilizer | No | Yes |
| Security Alarm | Yes | Yes |
| Door Locking | Central Locking | Central Locking |
| Comfort & Convenience | ||
| Air Conditioning | Dual Zone Climate Control | Auto Climate Control System |
| Rear A/C Vents | Yes | Yes |
| Seat Material | Leather | Leather |
| Parking Brake | Manual | Manual |
| Key Type | Keyless Entry | Keyless Entry |
| Push-Button Start | No | Yes |
| Cruise Control | No | Yes |
| Multi-Info Display | Yes | Yes |
| Paddle Shifters | No | No |
| Reverse Camera | No | Yes |
| Auto Headlights | No | No |
| Power Windows | Yes | Yes |
| Power Seats | No | Yes |
| Remote Trunk Release | No | No |
| Eco Mode | No | No |
| Antenna | yes | yes |
| Infotainment & Audio | ||
| Touchscreen | Yes | Yes |
| Navigation | No | Yes |
| Bluetooth | Yes | Yes |
| Apple CarPlay | No | No |
| Android Auto | No | No |
| USB | Yes | Yes |
| AUX Input | Yes | Yes |
| AM/FM Radio | Yes | Yes |
| CD Player | Yes | Yes |
| DVD Player | Yes | Yes |
| MP3 Playback | Yes | Yes |
| iPod Support | No | Yes |
| SD Card Slot | No | No |
| Speakers | — | 6 |
| Lighting | ||
| Headlights | LED | LED |
| Fog Lights | Yes | Yes |
| Daytime Running Lights | No | Yes |
Mazda MX-5 RF 2.0 SkyActiv AT with Nappa Leather Interior (2017) vs Isuzu mu-X LS-A 4×4 3.0 AT (2018): which should you buy?
Choosing between the Mazda MX-5 RF and the Isuzu mu-X LS-A comes down to lifestyle and priorities. The MX-5 RF is a pure sports coupe for driving enthusiasts: rear-wheel drive, naturally aspirated 2.0L engine (160 PS, 200 Nm), 6-speed automatic, and a lightweight 2-seater with a power retractable hardtop. It's impractical for families but thrilling on twisty roads. The mu-X LS-A is a 7-seater diesel SUV with 4WD, a turbo 3.0L engine (177 PS, 380 Nm), and much more torque for off-road or heavy hauling. It's spacious, practical, and cheaper by ₱135,000. For a daily driver needing space and fuel efficiency (diesel), the mu-X wins. For weekend fun and style, the MX-5 is unmatched. The mu-X is better for commuting and family use; the MX-5 is a second car for joyrides. Both have 3-year/100,000km warranties.
Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper?
The Isuzu mu-X LS-A is cheaper at ₱2,145,000 compared to the Mazda MX-5 RF at ₱2,280,000.
Which is more powerful?
The Isuzu mu-X has higher torque (380 Nm vs 200 Nm) and slightly more power (177 PS vs 160 PS), but the Mazda MX-5 is lighter and more agile.
Which is better for daily commuting?
The Isuzu mu-X is better for daily commuting due to its diesel efficiency, spacious 7-seat cabin, and 4WD capability for rough roads.
Which has more seating capacity?
The Isuzu mu-X seats 7 (2+3+2), while the Mazda MX-5 seats only 2.