When it comes to picking a powerful, reliable, and stylish pickup truck in India, two popular names that come up are the Toyota Hilux and the Isuzu D-Max V-Cross. Both are well-known for their rugged performance, excellent durability, and ability to handle tough terrains, making them a favorite choice for adventure lovers, off-road enthusiasts, and even businesses. But with several similarities between them, which one should you choose? In this blog, we’ll compare the Toyota Hilux and the Isuzu D-Max V-Cross in terms of price, features, and performance to help you make an informed decision.
Overview of Toyota Hilux
The Toyota Hilux has long been a trusted name globally, and after its arrival in India, it quickly gained attention due to its tough build and reliable performance. Known for its off-road capabilities, the Hilux is designed to handle challenging terrains while offering a high level of comfort and convenience for its passengers. It is often seen as a perfect combination of power and style, appealing to those looking for a premium yet rugged vehicle.
Key Features of the Toyota Hilux:
- Engine Options: The Hilux comes with a 2.8-liter 4-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine. This engine produces around 204 bhp and 420 Nm of torque (500 Nm with automatic transmission).
- Transmission: It offers both 6-speed manual and 6-speed automatic transmission options.
- Drive Type: The Hilux is available in 4×4 (all-wheel drive) configuration, making it ideal for off-road adventures.Interior: The interior of the Toyota Hilux is spacious and comfortable, with premium features such as leather upholstery, a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, dual-zone automatic climate control, and more.
- Safety Features: It comes with a host of safety features such as 7 airbags, traction control, anti-lock braking system (ABS), electronic stability control, hill assist control, and more
Overview of Isuzu D-Max V-Cross
Isuzu, a popular Japanese automobile manufacturer, has made its mark in India with the D-Max V-Cross. The D-Max V-Cross is a versatile, tough, and stylish pickup that appeals to customers who want a vehicle that can be used for work, as well as leisure. With its bold design and impressive capabilities, the Isuzu D-Max V-Cross is perfect for those who want to drive through tough conditions, without compromising on style and comfort.
Key Features of the Isuzu D-Max V-Cross:
- Engine Options: The Isuzu D-Max V-Cross is powered by a 1.9-liter 4-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine that delivers 161 bhp and 360 Nm of torque.
- Transmission: It is available with a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic transmission, offering smooth driving experiences in both city and off-road conditions.
- Drive Type: The D-Max V-Cross also comes with a 4×4 drive option, making it an excellent choice for off-roading and handling difficult terrains.
- Interior: The cabin of the D-Max V-Cross is equipped with a touchscreen infotainment system, leatherette seats, steering-mounted controls, dual airbags, and more. While not as premium as the Hilux, it offers a comfortable experience for both the driver and passengers.
- Safety Features: The Isuzu D-Max V-Cross comes with features like airbags, ABS, rear parking sensors, and electronic stability control.
Price Comparison
Toyota Hilux Price: The Toyota Hilux is positioned as a premium pickup truck in the Indian market. The prices for the Toyota Hilux start at around ₹33.99 Lakhs (ex-showroom). The price increases based on the variant, with the higher variants and top-end models reaching around ₹38-40 Lakhs (ex-showroom).
Isuzu D-Max V-Cross Price: The Isuzu D-Max V-Cross is generally more affordable compared to the Hilux. The price of the Isuzu D-Max V-Cross starts at ₹23.95 Lakhs (ex-showroom) and can go up to ₹26.50 Lakhs (ex-showroom) for the higher variants.
Verdict
If you are looking for a premium pickup truck and are willing to pay extra for features, performance, and a brand like Toyota, the Hilux is a good choice.
If you are looking for a more affordable yet capable vehicle with great features, the Isuzu D-Max V-Cross makes more sense.
Engine and Power
The Toyota Hilux comes with a 2.8-liter diesel engine producing 204 bhp and 420 Nm of torque (500 Nm with automatic transmission). The power and torque offered by the Hilux make it one of the most powerful pickups in its segment. The 4×4 configuration, combined with the impressive powertrain, ensures a smooth and confident drive, even in off-road conditions.
The Isuzu D-Max V-Cross, on the other hand, has a smaller 1.9-liter diesel engine that produces 161 bhp and 360 Nm of torque. While it is less powerful than the Hilux, it is still capable of handling tough terrain, especially when you consider its 4×4 drive.
Transmission and Driving Experience
The Toyota Hilux offers a 6-speed manual and 6-speed automatic transmission, both of which provide a smooth and effortless driving experience. The automatic variant is especially suited for those who need ease of driving in city conditions.
The Isuzu D-Max V-Cross also comes with 6-speed manual and automatic transmissions. The driving experience is smooth, but compared to the Hilux, it might feel slightly less refined when it comes to handling and overall performance.
Off-Road Capabilities
Both the Toyota Hilux and the Isuzu D-Max V-Cross are designed for off-road enthusiasts. However, the Toyota Hilux edges out the Isuzu D-Max V-Cross in terms of overall off-road capability due to its higher power and torque. It can easily handle steep inclines, rocky terrains, and challenging off-road conditions.
The Isuzu D-Max V-Cross, while highly capable, may struggle slightly in more extreme conditions compared to the Hilux. But for most regular off-roading, the D-Max V-Cross does a fine job.
Interior and Comfort
Toyota Hilux Interior: The Toyota Hilux offers a more premium feel compared to the D-Max V-Cross. The cabin is spacious and luxurious, with leather upholstery, an advanced infotainment system with a 9-inch touchscreen, automatic climate control, and several other features that enhance comfort. The seats are ergonomically designed, and the overall ambiance is refined. It is a perfect vehicle for long road trips and daily commuting alike.
Isuzu D-Max V-Cross Interior: The Isuzu D-Max V-Cross offers a more practical cabin. It is spacious and comfortable, with leatherette upholstery and a decent infotainment system. While the features are not as premium as the Hilux, they are certainly adequate for most users. The overall design is more utilitarian, and while the cabin is comfortable, it doesn’t have the same level of refinement as the Toyota Hilux.
Verdict: If premium features and comfort are a priority, the Toyota Hilux is the better choice. However, the Isuzu D-Max V-Cross still provides a comfortable and practical experience for daily use.
Safety Features
Both vehicles come with essential safety features to keep the driver and passengers safe. Some of the key safety features of both pickups include:
- Airbags
- Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
- Electronic Stability Control
- Traction Control
- Hill Assist Control
The Toyota Hilux goes a step further with advanced safety features like seven airbags and a more comprehensive driver assistance package, while the Isuzu D-Max V-Cross offers basic safety features like dual airbags and rear parking sensors.
Verdict: For those who prioritize safety, the Toyota Hilux offers more advanced safety technology compared to the Isuzu D-Max V-Cross.
Which One Should You Buy?
The decision between the Toyota Hilux and Isuzu D-Max V-Cross ultimately depends on your priorities.
Choose the Toyota Hilux if:
- You are looking for a premium, high-performance vehicle with strong off-road capabilities.
- You want a more refined cabin and superior comfort.
- You are willing to spend more for a vehicle that delivers more power and additional safety features.
Choose the Isuzu D-Max V-Cross if:
- You are looking for an affordable, reliable, and capable vehicle.
- You want a tough pickup for off-roading but at a lower price point.
- You need a practical workhorse with decent comfort and features for daily use.
Both the Toyota Hilux and Isuzu D-Max V-Cross have their own strengths, and the best choice depends on your individual needs and budget.
Conclusion
Both the Toyota Hilux and the Isuzu D-Max V-Cross are strong contenders in the pickup truck market in India, offering impressive performance, off-road capabilities, and practicality. While the Hilux shines in terms of power, features, and premium quality, the D-Max V-Cross offers great value for money with its affordability and robust design. Your choice should depend on your specific needs, whether you’re looking for a more refined, powerful vehicle or a cost-effective, tough companion for your adventures.
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