2019 Isuzu D-Max V-Cross Review: First Drive

Isuzu has given the much desired D-Max V-Cross a mid-cycle update to make it more civil. And since we engaged 4x4 the last time we got our hands on one, this time around we took to city streets to see what it’s like to live with this pick-up.

There’s no denying that the D-Max V-Cross stands out on our roads while gathering admiring glances. In fact, such is its appeal that the V-Cross found urban takers in the form of not just off-road enthusiasts who take their vehicles for a spot of weekend off-roading, but even those who just want a vehicle that makes a butch style statement. It would appear that Isuzu has been taking notice of developments and not too long ago introduced this new top-end Z variant of the D-Max V-Cross. This new Z variant actually has some very handy new features that are designed to improve the comfort and convenience quotient.

What makes it more comfortable?

To start off with the D-Max V-Cross Z gets new and brighter LED projector headlamps, you also get a much needed reverse camera that is really helpful considering that this is a rather long vehicle. My only issue here is that for some strange reason, Isuzu still hasn’t fitted rear parking sensors! That is an essential feature considering its length and it would have really completed this package. Nevertheless, in the interest of making your life more convenient, the driver’s seat is now electrically adjustable. The driver, in fact, is much better off now thanks to a host of new electronic driver aids such as hill hold assist, hill decent control, traction control and stability.

Everything else that’s new is visible to the naked eye in form of new 18-inch dual tone alloy wheels, a slightly re-designed front bumper, blacked out B-pillars, a shark fin radio ariel, new LED tail lamps and the rear bumper is now garnished in chrome. On the inside, the cabin now has an all-black layout along with new leather seat upholstery.

Does it drive the same?

In short, yes it does. The D-Max V-Cross continues to be powered by the same 2.5 litre turbo diesel mill as earlier. And you won’t be disappointed about there being no changes here. For considering the sheer size of it and its diesel engine and manual gearbox, the V-Cross has a surprisingly light clutch and the gear throws do not require too much of an effort either. This combined with brilliant off-boost power delivery makes the V-Cross fairly easy to drive in stop-start traffic. The only problem you will have here is in relation to its short gear ratios that require you to change gears rather frequently in traffic. As far as downsides go, there is also the matter of a choppy ride for rear-seat occupants owing to the load lugging leaf spring rear suspension setup. But this and the relatively high NVH inside the cabin are after all core pick-up truck traits that make the V-Cross what it is. I don’t think anyone wants a super silent pickup truck, that would be weird wouldn’t it?

There is no doubting the fact that the V-Cross was designed and built as a purely functional machine. And it performs very well along those parameters. But I have to report that it functions rather well in urban environs too. Only now it’s become more convenient to live with. But as I write this, there has been a new development on the D-Max V-Cross front as Isuzu has launched an automatic gearbox equipped model that will undoubtedly be an even better performer on city streets! So be sure to check that one out if you’re looking for the ultimate masculine style statement for our city streets.

Also read: Isuzu D-Max V-Cross Facelift launched

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