If you’re shopping for a lifestyle pickup truck in India, the battle essentially comes down to two strong contenders: the 2026 Isuzu V-Cross and the Toyota Hilux. Both are body-on-frame workhorses with genuine 4×4 capability, spacious cabins, and a loyal following. But they differ significantly in pricing, engine muscle, and the kind of buyer they’re built for.
This in-depth comparison breaks down everything — price, engine specs, features, dimensions, safety, and real-world verdict — so you can make the right call.
Quick Overview: At a Glance
| Parameter | Isuzu V-Cross (2026) | Toyota Hilux (2025–26) |
|---|---|---|
| Price Range | ₹25.50 – ₹30.28 lakh (ex-showroom) | ₹28.02 – ₹35.37 lakh (ex-showroom) |
| Engine | 1.9L Turbo Diesel | 2.8L Turbo Diesel |
| Power | 161 bhp | 201 bhp |
| Torque | 360 Nm | 420–500 Nm |
| Drivetrain | 4×4 (standard across all variants) | 4×4 (standard) |
| Transmission | 6-speed MT / 6-speed AT | 6-speed MT / 6-speed AT |
| Seating | 5 persons | 5 persons |
| Infotainment | 10.3-inch touchscreen | 8.0-inch touchscreen |
| Airbags | 6 | 7 |
Price Comparison: Isuzu V-Cross vs Toyota Hilux (2026)
2026 Isuzu V-Cross – Full Variant Price List
The 2026 Isuzu V-Cross was launched in India on February 22, 2026, with a notable change — the 4×2 variants have been discontinued. All variants now come standard with 4×4 (4WD).
| Variant | Transmission | Price (Ex-showroom) |
|---|---|---|
| 4WD MT Z Standard | 6-speed Manual | ₹25.50 lakh |
| 4WD MT Z Premium | 6-speed Manual | ₹26.00 lakh |
| 4WD MT Z Prestige Standard | 6-speed Manual | ₹27.00 lakh |
| 4WD MT Z Prestige Premium | 6-speed Manual | ₹27.28 lakh |
| 4WD AT Z Prestige Standard | 6-speed Automatic | ₹29.00 lakh |
| 4WD AT Z Prestige Premium | 6-speed Automatic | ₹30.28 lakh |
Toyota Hilux – Current Variant Price List
| Variant | Transmission | Price (Ex-showroom) |
|---|---|---|
| Standard MT | 6-speed Manual | ₹28.02 lakh |
| High MT | 6-speed Manual | ₹31.99 lakh |
| High AT | 6-speed Automatic | ₹35.37 lakh |
| Black Edition (High AT) | 6-speed Automatic | ₹37.90 lakh |
Key Takeaway: The V-Cross starts roughly ₹2.5 lakh cheaper than the base Hilux and tops out nearly ₹5 lakh below the Hilux’s flagship variant. For budget-conscious buyers, the V-Cross offers significant savings, especially since it now includes standard 4×4 across all trims.
Engine & Performance
This is where the most meaningful difference between the two trucks lies.
Isuzu V-Cross: 1.9L VGS Turbo Diesel
The 2026 V-Cross continues with the proven 1.9-litre, 4-cylinder, common rail, VGS turbo intercooled diesel engine. It produces 160.77 bhp (approx. 161 bhp) at 3,600 rpm and a peak torque of 360 Nm between 2,000–2,500 rpm. The engine is BS6 Phase II compliant and pairs with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic gearbox.
The 1.9L engine is refined, frugal, and well-suited for highway cruising and light off-roading. Real-world fuel economy hovers around 14–16 kmpl on highways. However, it does feel a little strained when fully loaded or climbing steep gradients.
Toyota Hilux: 2.8L Turbo Diesel
The Hilux is powered by a larger and more muscular 2.8-litre, 4-cylinder turbo diesel (DOHC), producing 201 bhp and 420 Nm of torque on the manual and a significantly higher 500 Nm on the automatic variant. This engine is a known quantity — the same unit powers the Toyota Fortuner and is celebrated globally for its durability and pulling power.
The Hilux feels noticeably stronger at overtaking, towing, and off-road climbs. Real-world mileage ranges between 11–14 kmpl.
Performance Verdict: The Hilux has a clear edge in outright power and torque. If you regularly carry heavy loads, tow trailers, or take on serious off-road terrain, the Hilux’s 2.8L diesel is a decisive advantage.
Design & Dimensions
Isuzu V-Cross (2026 Facelift)
The 2026 update brings a refreshed front fascia with a bold black lower grille, revised bumper with a chunky black lip, and the deletion of the silver faux skid plate. Notably, the side body cladding and black wheel arch trims have been removed, lending a cleaner, more premium silhouette. New dual-tone 18-inch alloy wheels complete the updated look. LED turn indicators are now on the ORVMs, and body-colour surrounds feature on the fog lamps.
Seven colour options are available: Silky White Pearl, Black Mica, Red Spinel Mica, Nautilus Blue, Galena Grey, Silver Metallic, and Splash White.
V-Cross Dimensions:
- Length: 5,295 mm
- Width: 1,860 mm
- Height: 1,840 mm
- Wheelbase: 3,095 mm
Toyota Hilux
The Hilux has a more aggressive, traditional pickup truck stance with its signature chrome-accented grille, prominent front bumper, and flared wheel arches. It’s available in Emotional Red, White Pearl Crystal Shine, Attitude Black, Super White, and Grey Metallic. A special Black Edition variant with an all-blacked-out exterior theme was launched in March 2025.
Hilux Dimensions:
- Length: 5,325 mm
- Width: 1,855 mm
- Height: 1,815 mm
- Wheelbase: 3,085 mm
Both trucks have a very similar footprint, making them equally challenging in tight city spaces. The Hilux has a larger turning radius of 6.4 metres, while the V-Cross is slightly more nimble.
Interior, Comfort & Infotainment
Isuzu V-Cross Interior
The 2026 V-Cross gets a significant interior upgrade. The biggest headline is the new 10.3-inch floating touchscreen infotainment system (up from the older 9-inch unit) with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The dashboard and door panels get new contrast trim inserts for a fresher feel. The top-spec Z Prestige variant comes equipped with a roof-mounted 8-speaker sound system, electronically adjustable and retractable ORVMs, an electronically adjustable driver’s seat, and Type-C charging ports. The cabin is practical with good storage and a comfortable rear bench for three adults.
Toyota Hilux Interior
The Hilux offers a more traditional truck interior with premium touches. It gets an 8.0-inch infotainment screen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay (wired), dual-zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery in the High variants, and a quality feel overall. The rear seats are a bit upright and don’t recline, which can be tiring on long journeys. Boot space (cargo bed) is rated at approximately 435 litres of enclosed storage behind the rear seats.
Infotainment Verdict: The V-Cross wins on screen size and wireless connectivity. The Hilux counters with dual-zone AC and a more premium cabin feel in higher trims.
Features Comparison
2026 Isuzu V-Cross – Key Features
- 10.3-inch floating touchscreen with wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay
- 8-speaker roof-mounted sound system (Prestige variants)
- 360-degree surround view camera (new for 2026)
- Tyre Pressure Monitoring System – TPMS (new for 2026)
- Blind Spot Monitoring camera system
- Electronically adjustable driver’s seat
- Electronically adjustable and retractable ORVMs
- Type-C USB charging port
- Shift-on-the-fly 4WD system
- Auto-locking rear differential (new for 2026)
- Hill Start Assist & Hill Descent Control
Toyota Hilux – Key Features
- 8.0-inch touchscreen with Android Auto & Apple CarPlay
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Leather upholstery (High variants)
- Connected Car Technology (Toyota Connect)
- Rear AC vents
- 60:40 split-foldable rear seats
- TPMS, Vehicle Stability Control
- Hill Start Assist & Downhill Assist Control
- Trailer Stability Assist
- Multi-terrain Select system
Features Verdict: The V-Cross pulls ahead with its larger screen and new 360-degree camera. The Hilux counters with dual-zone AC, connected car tech, and the Trailer Stability Assist — useful for those who use their truck for towing.
Safety
| Feature | Isuzu V-Cross | Toyota Hilux |
|---|---|---|
| Airbags | 6 | 7 |
| ABS with EBD | Yes | Yes |
| Electronic Stability Control | Yes | Yes |
| Traction Control | Yes | Yes |
| Hill Descent Control | Yes | Yes |
| TPMS | Yes (new 2026) | Yes |
| 360° Camera | Yes (new 2026) | No |
| Blind Spot Monitoring | Yes | No |
| Trailer Stability Assist | No | Yes |
| NCAP Rating | Not tested | 5-Star (ANCAP 2025) |
The new-generation Toyota Hilux earned a 5-star ANCAP safety rating in 2025, covering both adult and child occupant protection — a significant trust factor. The Isuzu V-Cross hasn’t been rated by NCAP/ASEAN NCAP in its current guise.
Off-Road Capability
Both trucks are built on traditional ladder-frame chassis and offer genuine 4×4 capability with shift-on-the-fly systems. The 2026 V-Cross now comes with an auto-locking rear differential as standard across all variants — a useful upgrade for off-road traction.
The Hilux, with its higher torque output and the Multi-terrain Select system, gives drivers better control over different surfaces like mud, sand, and rock. Both trucks offer Hill Descent Control and Hill Start Assist. Ground clearance figures are comparable.
For most buyers who occasionally venture off the tarmac, both trucks will perform admirably. For hardcore off-roaders or those in hilly/remote terrain, the Hilux’s engine muscle and terrain management give it an edge.
Ownership & After-Sales
Toyota Hilux benefits enormously from Toyota’s vast service network across India. Spare parts are widely available, service costs are predictable, and the brand’s reputation for reliability is unmatched. The 2.8L diesel engine shared with the Fortuner means mechanics are well-familiar with it.
Isuzu V-Cross is supported by Isuzu’s growing dealer network in India. While not as widespread as Toyota, Isuzu’s commercial vehicle DNA means the D-Max platform is known for reliability. The brand runs regular service camps (Monsoon, Winter, Pre-Summer) to support customers.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Isuzu V-Cross (2026) if:
- Your budget is between ₹25–30 lakh and you want 4×4 standard
- You prioritise a modern infotainment screen and tech features
- You want a fuel-efficient pickup with a refined, less-intrusive engine note
- City driving and occasional off-roading is your primary use case
- You want the freshest update in the segment (just launched February 2026)
Buy the Toyota Hilux if:
- You need maximum towing and hauling capability
- You want the peace of mind of Toyota’s nationwide service network and 5-star safety rating
- You regularly carry heavy loads or drive on demanding terrain
- Dual-zone climate control and Toyota Connect features matter to you
- Long-term resale value is a priority (Toyota holds value well)
Final Verdict
The 2026 Isuzu V-Cross is the sharper value proposition right now. It undercuts the Hilux considerably in price, packs a bigger infotainment screen, and now comes with 4×4 as standard and a useful 360-degree camera — all upgrades that land just days before this article was published (February 22, 2026). It suits buyers who want a feature-rich, capable lifestyle truck without crossing the ₹30 lakh mark.
The Toyota Hilux remains the more capable, more powerful, and arguably more credible truck overall. Its 2.8L engine, 5-star ANCAP safety rating, Toyota’s bulletproof reliability reputation, and wider service reach make it a compelling long-term investment — especially for those who genuinely push their trucks hard. Yes, it costs more, but for buyers who depend on their pickup truck for livelihoods or serious adventure, the premium is well-justified.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Isuzu V-Cross available in 4×2 in 2026? No. From the 2026 model year, Isuzu has discontinued all 4×2 (2WD) variants. All V-Cross variants now come standard with a Shift-on-the-fly 4×4 system.
Q: Which has a better infotainment screen — V-Cross or Hilux? The 2026 Isuzu V-Cross has a 10.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The Toyota Hilux has an 8-inch system with wired connectivity. V-Cross wins here.
Q: Which is better for towing — V-Cross or Hilux? The Toyota Hilux, with its 2.8L engine producing up to 500 Nm of torque (automatic) and Trailer Stability Assist, is the better towing vehicle.
Q: What is the fuel efficiency of the Isuzu V-Cross vs Toyota Hilux? The V-Cross (1.9L) returns approximately 14–16 kmpl on highways. The Hilux (2.8L) returns approximately 12–14 kmpl on highways. Real-world figures vary based on load and terrain.
Q: Does the Toyota Hilux have a 360-degree camera? No, the current Toyota Hilux in India does not offer a 360-degree surround view camera. The 2026 Isuzu V-Cross has added this feature.
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