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Isuzu has a limited presence in India with only the D-Max V-Cross currently on sale in the passenger vehicle segment. All the other pickup trucks cater to the light commercial vehicle segment. Moreover, the V-Cross on sale in India, is an older version of the pickup truck.
Isuzu updated the V-Cross last year which is on sale in several international markets but not India. It appears the Japanese automaker will soon update the India-spec V-Cross. A teaser of the same has been released by Isuzu on the company’s social media handles. The short video gives glimpses of the updates expected on the facelifted V-Cross.
The caption says that the updated V-Cross would receive “bold new looks and enhanced features”. We expect the updates to be in line with the international-spec model. This includes exterior styling modifications such as a new blacked-out grille, and new 18-inch all-black alloy wheels which make the pickup truck look sportier than before.
Inside the cabin, the updated D-Max V-Cross is expected to be loaded with all the bells and whistles including a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Android Auto and Apple Carplay, dual-zone climate control, keyless entry, and electrically adjustable driver’s seat with power lumbar support. Other useful features include automatic LED headlights, and a reverse parking camera.
The UK-spec V-Cross scored a five-star safety rating in the Euro NCAP crash tests last year. This was thanks to Advanced Driver Assist Systems (ADAS) offered as standard across the range. However, the India-spec model is unlikely to receive the benefits of ADAS.
In all probability, the 2024 D-Max V-Cross will employ the same 1.9-litre turbo diesel engine as the current model. This motor churns out 161 bhp and 360 Nm of peak torque. Transmission duties are carried out either by a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission.
Drivetrain options include both rear-wheel and four-wheel drive setups. The latter comes with a low-range transfer case and a rear differential lock, enhancing its off-roading capabilities. It has a water wading capacity of 800mm and a towing capacity of up to 3.5 tonnes.
Isuzu hasn’t yet announced a specific launch date for the updated D-Max V-Cross but we expect it to happen sometime next month. Upon launch, it will continue to lock horns with the Toyota Hilux. Expect the updated V-Cross to be priced between Rs 25 lakh and Rs 30 lakh (both ex-showroom).
Financial Express