2026 Isuzu V-Cross: The 2026 Isuzu V-Cross has officially arrived in the Indian market, bringing a refreshed design, more technology, and standard four-wheel-drive capability across the lineup. Known as a lifestyle pickup designed for adventure lovers and off-road enthusiasts, the new model aims to strengthen its presence in a niche segment that still remains relatively small in India.
2026 Isuzu V-Cross Price and Variant Details
For 2026, Isuzu has simplified the lineup and removed the earlier 4×2 variants. Now, every V-Cross sold comes with a standard 4WD system, making it more focused on adventure and utility.
Available variants include:
- V-Cross Z 4WD Manual
- V-Cross Z Prestige 4WD Manual
- V-Cross Z Prestige 4WD Automatic
Price range (ex-showroom):
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- Starting price: Rs 25.50 lakh
- Mid variants: Around Rs 27 lakh
- Top automatic variant: Around Rs 30 lakh
This pricing places the V-Cross firmly in the premium lifestyle pickup category in India.
2026 Isuzu V-Cross Engine and Performance
Under the hood, the pickup continues with the same proven diesel engine known for durability and torque delivery.
Powertrain details:
- Engine: 1.9-litre four-cylinder turbo diesel
- Power output: 163 hp
- Torque: 360 Nm
- Transmission options:
- 6-speed manual gearbox
- 6-speed automatic transmission
- Drivetrain: Shift-on-the-fly four-wheel drive (standard)
This setup is designed for:
- Off-road adventures
- Long highway drives
- Carrying heavy loads in the cargo bed
The ladder-frame chassis continues to provide rugged durability, which has always been a core strength of the V-Cross.
2026 Isuzu V-Cross Exterior Updates and Styling Changes
The 2026 model doesn’t drastically change the design but introduces subtle improvements to make the pickup look more modern and premium.
Key exterior updates include:
- Redesigned front bumper with a sportier appearance
- Larger and more prominent grille with darker accents
- Increased body-colored panels replacing black cladding
- New 18-inch alloy wheel design
- Updated fog lamp housing
- Cleaner wheel arch styling
- Revised rear bumper with black finish
- LED headlights and tail lights retained
These changes give the truck a more refined yet rugged look, making it appealing to buyers who want both style and capability.
Interior and Technology Upgrades
Inside the cabin, Isuzu has focused on improving comfort and technology while keeping the overall layout familiar.
Interior highlights:
- Large floating touchscreen infotainment system (around 9-10 inch range depending on variant)
- Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
- Automatic climate control
- Leatherette upholstery
- Power-adjustable driver seat
- Keyless entry with push-button start
- Cruise control
- Rear seat armrest and improved comfort
These additions make the V-Cross more suitable not only for off-roading but also for daily driving and long-distance travel.
Safety Features
Safety has also seen improvements, especially in higher variants.
Standard and available safety features:
- Anti-lock braking system (ABS)
- Electronic stability control
- Traction control
- Hill descent control
- Hill start assist
- Dual airbags (base variants)
- Up to six airbags (top trims)
- 360-degree camera system
- Tyre pressure monitoring system
- Blind-spot monitoring
These features improve both driver confidence and passenger safety.
Competition in the Segment
The lifestyle pickup segment in India remains limited but competitive. The biggest rival to the V-Cross currently is the Toyota Hilux, which is also positioned as a premium off-road pickup truck.
However, the biggest future challenge may come from the upcoming pickup based on the Mahindra Scorpio-N, which is expected to arrive as a new lifestyle pickup in the near future. Reports suggest it could be priced significantly lower, potentially attracting a wider audience.
If priced aggressively, this upcoming model could reshape the pickup market in India.
Market Reality: Why Pickup Trucks Sell Less
Despite their rugged appeal, lifestyle pickups have historically struggled in India due to several factors:
- Large size makes city driving difficult
- Parking challenges in urban areas
- Limited audience compared to SUVs
- Higher pricing compared to mainstream vehicles
- Ride comfort can feel stiff without load in the cargo bed
Because of this, monthly sales numbers in this category remain relatively small compared to SUVs.
Final Thoughts
The 2026 Isuzu V-Cross brings meaningful updates while staying true to its core identity as a tough, adventure-ready pickup truck. With standard 4WD, improved technology, and subtle styling upgrades, it becomes a more appealing option for buyers who want a capable lifestyle vehicle. For now, the V-Cross continues to serve a loyal niche audience that values durability, off-road ability, and a distinctive road presence.
