Isuzu D-Max V-Cross aims at the ‘pleasure’ end of the pickup market, and marks the expansion of an already versatile D-Max range.

Story by:

Anirudh Raheja

Same platform but different personalities. That is how the curious case of D-Max V-Cross is, in comparison of the rest of the D-Max pickup range that Isuzu Motors India is offering for the last two years. Unveiled at the Auto Expo 2016, the V-Cross caught attention of the showgoers. It is aimed at the ‘personal’ end of the pick-up market that has had many players try their luck. The company has started accepting bookings at an inaugural price of Rs. 12.49 lakh on the eve of the commissioning of its brand new SriCity plant to the north of Chennai. With Isuzu’s Indian connection dating back to the early 90s when it entered into an agreement with Hindustan Motors to supply the famous ISZ range of petrol and diesel engines, the Japanese major, has had a long-standby relation with SML, which manufactures commercial vehicles above 3.5-tonnes. Aiming at the light commercial vehicle market under the premise of efficiency and reliability with the D-Max pickup range, the D-Max V-Cross marks a big change.

Over 3000 D-Max pickups have been sold till date. With a substantial phased investment of Rs.3000 crore planned by Isuzu, a considerable chunk of which has gone in the building of the SriCity Greenfield plant, there’s is little doubt that Isuzu is highly confident of the success of the D-Max range. The MU-7 SUV may not clock as many numbers or have the ability to offer such diversity even though it shares the D-Max platform afterall. What makes the V-Cross stand out is its ability to appeal to an audience that is looking at something distinct and capable. Something that is practical, hardy and fun. The ‘pleasure’ end of the pickup market is far from the scale displayed by mature markets like US, Latin America and Thailand. The success of V-Cross may make a big change therefore.

Built tough

Essentially adding to the D-Max range, the V-Cross is an attractive looking vehicle. Measuring 5295 mm in length, 1860 mm in width and 1840 mm in height, the vehicle has a 3095 mm wheelbase. Ground clearance is a good 225 mm. Higher up the ground, the V-Cross, in terms of appearance, does look stylish. Stylish it is. Riding on 245/70 R16 tyres, it conveys in no uncertain terms, that it takes interest in those who are adventurous. A wedge-shaped design with an amount of muscularity thrown in for good measure, the V-Cross, over the D-Max range, which consists of the D-Max Single Cab, D-Max Crew Cab and the D-Max Cab-Chassis, stands out as more modern and plush. Flaunting an amount of tough build and presence, the V-cross was subjected to wind tunnel taste to ensure that it offers the least resistance to wind. Seemingly large and tall, the pick-up truck, with the body bolted to the chassis, has modern projector head lamps. A big chrome grille adds character. The impact absorbing (chunky) bumper adds to the tough look. The fog lamps are located at either corner of the bumper. Look carefully, and one would notice that the vehicle is fitted with a skid-plate.

Bulging wheel arches mark the sides. In the twin cab guise, the V-Cross looks quite appealing. With good departure and transverse angles, which provide a good ability to handle the rough and tumble, the V-cross employs a double wishbone independent suspension at front. The front and rear portion are collapsible, and contain crumple zones. The all-new iGRIP (Isuzu Gravity Response Intelligent Platform) ensures a balanced performance with good stability in various operating conditions for a consistent performance regardless of the load. To be able to cheat the wind, the V-Cross was treated to a wind tunnel of an Italian sports car development facility and a Bullet train testing facility in Japan. It does not take long to notice that the roof curves down at the rear to make an interesting silhouette. There are sturdy looking roof rails, which add to the character of the pick-up. The OVRMs are electrically powered and finished in chrome. Rear suspension is made up of long span leaves. The leaves have been calibrated suitably to account for the diverse nature of loading the pick-up may be subjected to. The cargo deck of V-Cross measures 1485 mm in length and 1530 mm in width. Its load carrying capacity is 265 kg. The deck lid falls down to provide access to the cargo tray.

Interiors

Get behind the wheel, and it is apparent at once, that the visibility ahead is good. The 225 mm ground clearance ensures that the driver climbs into his seat. It is the same for the other occupants too. Higher seating ensures a good view ahead, courtesy the considerable glass area. The dual-tone interior may not look luxurious, it is certainly plush. The quality of plastics is good, and the overall build quality and fit-finish standards are high. The driver’s seat is six-way adjustable. The front passenger seat may not be as adjustable, it is also quite comfortable. There’s good room on offer. The hydraulically power assisted steering is tilt adjustable. It is also multi-functional. Instrument dials are electro-luminescent. The console includes a multi-information display. Standard fitment on the V-Cross is an ‘auto’ air-con with integrated controls and a pollen filter. The audio system is user friendly and hints at an ergonomically well designed cabin. Having plenty storage compartments including the door pockets, the V-Cross features dual airbags, ABS, EBD and brake assist as standard. The 60:40 split rear seat can sit two people in good comfort. Three people can seat with some compromise in comfort. The rear seat also gets ISOFIX anchorage for child safety.

Performance

The V-Cross is powered by a 134 hp, 2.5-litre four-cylinder common-rail turbo-diesel engine. Isuzu, at this point, it should be mentioned, is tagged as a diesel engine expert. The BS IV compliant engine produces 320 Nm of torque between 1800 and 2800 rpm. Not much noise filters into the cabin even when the engine is idling or when on the move. This points at good insulation. Weighing 1905 Kg, the V-Cross comes across as energetic. It moves away from stand still with alacrity. The five-speed manual gearbox supporting smooth shifts; is well configured. Leave for some lag initially, and the V-Cross responds well. The turbo cuts in at around 1800 rpm, and results in a strong thrust emanating at around 2000rpm, which continues a good distance up the rev range. Keep the engine moving in the ‘sweet’ range, and the V-Cross will make an interesting drive. The top speed of the V-Cross is claimed to be 150 kmph. The fuel tank capacity is 52 litres, and should present the V-Cross with a good range of over 500 kms for a tankful of diesel.

Driving dynamics

For a brief period that I had the V-Cross, the initial impression about ride is good. The leaf spring suspension at the rear adds a bit of a stiff edge to the ride. The steering feels a shade light but weighs up well with speed. It also offers a good feedback. Handling is good and the V-Cross exudes confidence. Pushed into corners and over a loose gravel path, the pick-up (despite being devoid of any load) inspired confidence. Some roll did show through, but a conclusion can be drawn only after a long drive cycle. The initial impression had was positive. The brakes exert a good bite. They include a 10.5-inch dia. brake booster. The front is made up of ventilated discs and twin-pot calipers. Rear is made up of drum and brake shoes. For off-roading, the four-wheel drive mechanism of the V-Cross is engaged by a knob situated on the centre console, and aft of the gear shifter. It has two positions marked – 2-High and 4-High.

Summing up

Backed by an effort of the company to localise the product earlier on, and as much as 70 per cent, the V-Cross as part of the D-Max family of pick-ups, makes an interesting case. It is plush, comfortable and comes across as a desirable pick-up for ‘personal’ use. Capable of changing the pick-up market dynamics in India, the V-Cross from Isuzu Motors India, there should be no doubt, is set to add a new dimension.