Toyota Hilux or Isuzu V-Cross? Know which one is right to buy for real adventure before preparing your budget.

Toyota Hilux and Isuzu V-Cross are two big competitors in the lifestyle pickup truck segment in the Indian market. The recently launched 9th Gen Toyota Hilux has made this competition more interesting. This new model has come with a completely new design, premium interior and updated features, while the price starts from ₹ 31.99 lakh. On the other hand, Isuzu V-Cross is also present in the market with 2026 update, which is a slightly cheaper and feature-rich option. Customers can buy it at a starting ex-showroom price of only ₹ 25,50,260.

Both vehicles focus on off-road capability, ruggedness and practicality, but there is a clear difference in power, premiumness and price. The HiLex is more powerful and has brand value, while the V-Cross attracts buyers with value-for-money and a better feature list. Let us compare both on the basis of design, interior, features, safety, engine and performance.

design details

Cyber ​​Sumo design language has been adopted in the new HiLex. It has a wide grille, slim LED headlamps, redesigned bumper, silver skid plate and new alloy wheels. It looks more muscular and modern. The design of the V-Cross is a bit old school, but it still has an attractive and rugged look. In dimensions, the V-Cross is slightly taller and wider, while the HiLex is almost equal in length.

Interior and Features

The cabin of HiLex has now become quite premium. It has 12.3 inch touchscreen infotainment, 7 inch digital cluster, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, wireless charging, 8-speaker audio, ventilated seats (top variant) and 360 degree camera. The V-Cross has a 10.3-inch touchscreen, wireless connectivity, 8-speaker system and 360 camera. The HiLex is ahead in interior quality and premiumness, while the V-Cross is competitive in features.

Safety

HiLex has features like 7 airbags, VSC, TPMS, parking sensor and panoramic view monitor. The V-Cross comes with 6 airbags, ESC, hill descent control and other basic safety equipment on the top variant. Both are built on strong ladder-frame chassis, but the HiLex is slightly ahead.

Engine and Performance

HiLex has a 2.8-litre diesel engine which produces 204 PS power and 500 Newton meter torque. It comes only with a 6-speed automatic and 4×2/4×4 options are available. 80 liter fuel tank is also a big advantage. The V-Cross has a 1.9-litre diesel engine, which produces 163 horsepower and 360 Newton meters of torque. It has both 6-speed manual and automatic options, but only 4×4 is available.

The HiLex is clearly better in terms of power and torque, while the V-Cross strikes a balance between everyday usability and mileage. Overall, if the budget allows and you want a premium feel with more power, then the new 2026 HiLex is a better option. The V-Cross still remains a strong contender for buyers who prioritize value and features.