Isuzu Motor India Unveils 2026 D-Max V-Cross Pickup with 4x4 as Standard
Isuzu Motor India has officially launched the new 2026 Isuzu D-Max V-Cross pickup in the Indian market. This update introduces subtle cosmetic enhancements and an expanded equipment roster, while notably eliminating the 4x2 option from the lineup. With the 4x4 drivetrain now offered as standard across all variants, the vehicle continues its fierce rivalry with the Toyota Hilux. This article provides a comprehensive comparison between the refreshed V-Cross and its established competitor.
2026 Isuzu V-Cross vs Toyota Hilux: Pricing and Variants Breakdown
The 2026 Isuzu D-Max V-Cross is available in four distinct variants: Z Standard, Z Premium, Z Prestige Standard, and Z Prestige Premium. Prices range from Rs 25.50 lakh to Rs 30.28 lakh (ex-showroom). The standardization of 4x4 has led to a price increase, with the entry-level variant now costing Rs 1.23 lakh more than its predecessor. At the premium end, the D-Max V-Cross Z Prestige Premium 4x4 AT sees a hike of Rs 63,000.
In contrast, the Toyota Hilux is offered in three variants: STD, High, and Black Edition, with prices spanning from Rs 28 lakh to Rs 35.8 lakh (ex-showroom). It also features 4x4 as standard. Overall, the Isuzu D-Max V-Cross positions itself as a more affordable option, being Rs 2.50 lakh to Rs 5.52 lakh cheaper than the Toyota Hilux on an ex-showroom basis.
Engine Performance and 4x4 Capabilities Compared
The 2026 Isuzu D-Max V-Cross is powered by a 1.9-litre turbo diesel engine that delivers 163 horsepower and 360 Nm of torque. It can be paired with either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission. Notably, the model is now exclusively available with a 4x4 configuration, and an auto-locking differential has been made standard across all variants to boost off-road prowess.
The Toyota Hilux, on the other hand, features a more powerful 2.8-litre, four-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine generating 201 bhp and torque figures of 430 Nm (manual) or 500 Nm (automatic). It offers a six-speed manual or a six-speed torque converter automatic gearbox. The Hilux is equipped with an electronic differential lock and an auto limited slip differential, enhancing its rugged capabilities.
Dimensional Analysis: Isuzu V-Cross vs Toyota Hilux
The Toyota Hilux measures 5,325 mm in length, 1,855 mm in width, 1,815 mm in height, and boasts a wheelbase of 3,085 mm. It provides 216 mm of ground clearance and includes an 80-litre fuel tank.
The Isuzu D-Max V-Cross has dimensions of 5,295 mm in length, 1,860 mm in width, 1,840 mm in height, and a wheelbase of 3,095 mm. It offers 225 mm of ground clearance but comes with a smaller 55-litre fuel tank.
In comparison, the Isuzu D-Max V-Cross is 30 mm shorter, 5 mm wider, and 25 mm taller than the Toyota Hilux, with a 10 mm longer wheelbase. It also provides 9 mm more ground clearance, though it sacrifices 25 litres in fuel tank capacity.
Feature and Safety Showdown
The 2026 Isuzu V-Cross is equipped with a range of modern features, including a 10.3-inch floating touchscreen infotainment system supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Additional highlights comprise projector headlamps, 18-inch alloy wheels, a 360-degree camera, an eight-speaker sound system, electronic seat adjustment for the driver, type-C charger ports, and electrically adjustable and retractable ORVMs.
Safety is bolstered by six airbags (dual front, side, and curtain), ISOFIX mounts, ABS with EBD, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and traction control.
The Toyota Hilux features an 8.0-inch infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, projector headlamps, 18-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone climate control, a semi-digital cluster, front and rear parking sensors, and a reverse parking camera. Its safety suite includes seven airbags, Vehicle Stability Control, Brake Assist (BA), Hill Assist Control, traction control, and ISOFIX mounts.
This detailed comparison underscores the competitive positioning of the 2026 Isuzu D-Max V-Cross against the Toyota Hilux, highlighting key differences in pricing, performance, dimensions, and features that cater to diverse consumer preferences in the Indian pickup truck segment.
