Isuzu

D-Max V-Cross

Isuzu Motor India has introduced the BS6-compliant D-Max V-Cross range in the country. The lifestyle pickup is offered in three variants - D-Max Hi-Lander, D-Max V-Cross Z 2WD AT, and the D-Max V-Cross Z Prestige 4WD AT. The BS6 upgrade has been a long coming for the lifestyle pick-up truck but has also made the range pricier than before with prices starting from Rs. 16.98 lakh (ex-showroom, Tamil Nadu). Apart from the update to meet the new emission norms, the BS6 Isuzu V-Cross now comes with a new entry-level Hi-Lander variant that is offered only in the rear-wheel-drive with a manual gearbox configuration.

The biggest update on the Isuzu D-Max range is the revised 1.9-litre diesel engine that now develops 161 bhp and 360 Nm of peak torque. The engine has seen an increment of 12 bhp and 10 Nm in power figures over the older version. The motor is paired with a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic transmission. The 2.5-litre oil burner that was previously available on the BS4 version has now been discontinued.

On the feature front, the BS6 Isuzu D-Max V-Cross range now gets bi-LED projector lens headlamps, LED DRLs and LED taillights. The model also comes with a side-step, 18-inch alloy wheels, automatic climate control, shift-on-fly four-wheel-drive, cruise control and a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system on the top variants. It also gets an electrically adjustable driver's seat, 8-speaker audio system with roof-mounted speakers, six airbags, hill descent control, and hill start assist.

The new Isuzu D-Max Hi-Lander variant is more affordable and packs all the essential features including halogen headlamps, black ORVMs, and steel wheels. The fancier tech from the Prestige variants has been missed out. The model does get the essentials including a manual HVAC unit, power steering and windows. It also gets dual airbags, ABS with EBD, reverse parking sensors as standard, while the more premium Prestige variant adds a rearview camera. The Hi-Lander misses out on the shift-on-fly 4WD system.

The Isuzu D-Max V-Cross range does not have a direct rival in the market but it does compete with the Mahindra Thar in the same price bracket.