Isuzu V-Cross: In a massive development that ramps up competition in the fast growing lifestyle pickup segment in India, Isuzu has introduced the updated V-Cross that takes the fight to the recently introduced Hilux by Toyota.
This major facelift to Isuzu’s range-topping pickup adds more smart touches, luxurious features and strong capabilities to appeal to those looking for a lifestyle-enhancing ute, as well as those who require a versatile workhorse with high-end aspirations.
Isuzu V-Cross Design Evolution: Tough Beyond Ruggedized
Isuzu V-Cross Well, the 2025 V-Cross is the result of Isuzu taking their design language a step forward, and we see loads of road presence coupled with a few more sophisticated touches.
Biggest changes can be found at the front end, which sports a new, large grille with horizontally flowing slats in dark chrome.
This is paired with new Bi-LED projector headlamps featuring new signature “Katana blade” DRLs which give the car’s lighting signature a more upscale look.
Shoulder lines down the length of the body give way to more prominent power bulges on the hood, and the front bumper features larger air intakes and angular bezels that are home the fog lamps.
Large silver skid plates highlight the rendezvous’ off-road character and contrast with the rest of the vehicle for an aggressive look.
Among the profile tweaks are expanded wheel arch flares housing larger 18-inch alloy wheels (up from 17-inch) featuring a machine-finish two-tone design.
The new tubular side steps with aluminum inserts and drainage slots are more utilitarian for off-road use.
Rear There are fewer changes at the rear end of the updated Isuzu V-Cross as compared to the front and all that include tweaked LED taillights, redesigned tailgate with embossed “V-Cross” lettering and a fuller bumper with integrated steps that allow an easy access to the loading bed at the rear.
The net result of this is a higher-riding model with a more imposing stance, one that still looks as utilitarian, but with a hint of elegance.
Interior – A big step forward when it comes to comfort and technology
The cabin gets the biggest upgrade and it’s about time considering this is an area that has traditionally been a weak point for the V-Cross.
The dashboard design is immediately recognisable but the materials used, from the soft-touch pannels of the upper sections to the more convincing wood-effect trim of the high-end versions, are better quality.
The highlight is a new 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system that features wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, taking the place of an old 7-inch unit.
It’s paired to a 7-inch digital instrument display that comes with multiple view options and is able to display off-road data such as incline angles and wheel articulation.
Seat comfort is much better, partly due to improved front seats that are more supportive laterally and have a greater adjustment range.
Upscale versions offer real leather upholstery with contrast stitching and even the most base models are swathed in upgraded fabric materials.
Rear seating is improved as well with more rake on the rear backrest, more padding and a fold-down center armrest with cupholders.
The storage provided in the cabin is bigger too, including door pockets, sunglass holder overhead and a bigger center console bin.
NVH levels have been improved by the inclusion of extra sound insulation materials, thicker glass and new engine mounts, contributing to a significantly quieter cabin environment that continues the impression of ISUZU’s premium ambitions for the new D-MAX.
Powertrain: Proven Toughness That’s Just Getting Started
The V-Cross soldiers on with Isuzu’s reliable 1.9-litre turbocharged diesel unit, now updated to put out a marginally better 165 PS (vs 163 PS) of power and the same great 360 Nm of torque.
More important are the tweaks made to the engine’s NVH performance – idle clatter is down and sound proofing is up for a more refined drive.
In addition to a 6-speed manual transmission choice, the 6-speed automatic transmission is also available, and both have been updated with improvements to shift quality.
The auto, in particular, is in better shape thanks to a more intuitive shift schedule and paddle shifters included with high grade models.
The 4×4 still is a part-time system with electronic actuation and comes with rear differential lock as standard.
New for 2025 is an enlarged off-road mode selector that can set the bike specifically for Sand, Mud, Rock or Snow traction conditions, changing the throttle response, traction control intervention and transmission shift patterns.
Fuel economy gains are modest through powertrain enhancements, as well as the inclusion of an idle start-stop system on automatic versions, with Isuzu claiming 7-8% improvements in real-world economy.
Usability & Capability: Strengthening the Basics
It retains the same V-Cross which is rated to tow 3.5-tonne and a 1-tonne payload. The load bed comes with a factory-installed liner equipped with tie-down points as standard, with a power socket and LED bed lighting added in higher models.
The ground clearance and approach and departure angles continue to keep an accountants heart rate in check at 235mm and 30 and 23 degrees.
Ground clearance also increases, rising from 200mm to 225mm, while the wading depth rate rises to 800mm (from 600mm), due to changes made to the air intake system.
Making use on a daily basis is a handy tailgate with assist mechanism for easy opening and closing, a 360-degree camera system that’s good for tight spots and automatic versions getting an electronic parking brake to clear up some space in the center console.
Technology and Safety: The Full Package
Safety levels also receive a sizeable boost, with all models being fitted with seven airbags, electronic stability control (ESC), traction control, hill start assist, and hill descent control across the range.
Top-spec versions gain blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert and autonomous emergency braking – none of which are offered in base spec and which all theoretically bring the V-Cross closer to what can be considered the bare minimum for a modern SUV.
The infotainment system also features connected car tech by means of the ISUZU Connect system, which allows features like remote vehicle monitoring, geofencing, service reminders and driving behaviour analysis.
With the 8-speaker premium audio system you can hear a significant improvement in sound quality over the previous 6-speaker model.
Pricing and Positioning in the Market Isuzu V-Cross
With price ranging between ₹24.50 lakh and ₹35.20 lakh (ex-showroom), the V-Cross takes on the Toyota Hilux and its price between ₹30.40 lakh and ₹37.80 lakh.
Isuzu is well positioned at entry price while also being competitive at the top end of the scale with this pricing approach.
The V-Cross family is made up of four variants: base, Z, Z Prestige, and Z Prestige+, so buyers can choose a level of equipment that suits their needs and finances.
The more detailed segmentation of the model line-up reflects the fact that Isuzu clearly comprehends the varied needs of pickup purchasers in India.
Isuzu V-Cross Conclusion: Here Comes a Serious Candidate
Isuzu V-Cross The new Isuzu V-Cross has been heavily updated taking care of the few aspects of the old car that didn’t really let it shine in the face of newer competition.
Still possessing it’s rugged capability and proven durability, The increases in interior quality, technology availability and refinement make it a more well rounded package to truly challenge the Hilux.
For those looking for a lifestyle pickup that can do work and play as well as carry the family, the V-Cross is now a very viable option and one that should be taken very seriously.
Its aggressive pricing make things even more robust, enough to shake Toyota’s aspirations as there is a growth on this market segment.