Toyota has introduced the ninth-generation Hilux with a revamped exterior and interior, along with revisions to its powertrain and features. In February 2026, its only other competitor, the Isuzu D-Max V-Cross, also debuted with a comprehensive update of its own. Being the only two lifestyle pickup trucks on the market, how do they fare when we compare their on-paper specifications? For this, we’ve chosen the Hilux’s VX 4X4 and the V-Cross’ 4WD Prestige Premium variant.
Explore full specs, features and a price breakdown in our Hilux vs V-Cross comparison.
Toyota Hilux vs Isuzu D-Max V-Cross: Dimensions
Hilux is longer, but the V-Cross is wider and taller
It’s only in length where the Hilux pips the V-Cross by 25mm. The Isuzu is 5mm wider, 40mm taller and has a 10mm longer wheelbase. So in terms of dimensions, it’s the V-Cross that takes the lead overall.
Toyota Hilux vs Isuzu D-Max V-Cross: Specifications
Hilux’s larger engine develops much more power
Both the Hilux and V-Cross come powered solely by a turbo-diesel engine. While the former gets a large 2.8-litre unit, the latter comes with a 1.9-litre mill. As far as outputs are concerned, the Hilux churns out 41hp and 140Nm more power and torque, respectively. Additionally, the Hilux gets a 25-litre larger fuel tank. As for commonalities, both pickups feature a 6-speed automatic transmission and a 4WD layout, as well as similar suspension setups.
Toyota Hilux vs Isuzu D-Max V-Cross: Driving tech
Drive and terrain modes found only on the Hilux
With 4WD on board, both the Hilux and V-Cross come with a low-range transfer case and an electronic differential lock. However, it’s the Hilux that comes with the ability to fine-tune your drive experience further with drive and terrain modes.
Toyota Hilux vs Isuzu D-Max V-Cross: Exterior Features
While the Hilux gets all-LED lighting, V-Cross gets roof rails
With the updated exterior, the Hilux gains all-LED light setups. The V-Cross, on the other hand, is equipped with projector-LED headlamps, halogen fog lamps and tail-lamps, but misses out on a rear fog lamp. While the Hilux gets a dedicated step to access the load bed and gas struts for the tailgate, the V-Cross comes with roof rails and wheels a size larger than the Hilux.
Toyota Hilux vs Isuzu D-Max V-Cross: Interior Features
Hilux loaded with more tech, but V-Cross gets more convenience features
On the equipment front, the Hilux brings a larger infotainment screen, a digital driver’s display, a wireless phone charger and connected-car tech over the V-Cross. But it misses out on convenience features such as automatic climate control and a powered driver’s seat found on the latter.
Toyota Hilux vs Isuzu D-Max V-Cross: Safety features
Hilux offers an additional airbag and front parking sensors
The Hilux and V-Cross come well-equipped with a 360-degree camera, front disc brakes, Isofix mounts, a day/night interior rearview mirror (IRVM), hill-start assist, hill-descent control, a tyre-pressure monitoring system (TPMS) and ESC. But the Hilux nudges ahead with an additional airbag and front parking sensors.
Toyota Hilux vs Isuzu D-Max V-Cross: Price and verdict
Top-end Hilux is Rs 6.41 lakh pricier than equivalent V-Cross
Taking top-of-the-line variants into consideration, the Hilux is dearer than the V-Cross by over 6 lakh. For most buyers, that difference is hard to ignore, which is why the D-Max V-Cross comes across as the better value pick. Overall, the V-Cross is a substantial package with a sufficiently powerful diesel engine, 4WD and a decent feature list. But if you want more power, driving features, safety, a much larger fuel tank and better screens, then the Hilux is the one to go for. Additionally, Toyota’s bulletproof reliability and widespread service reach are major draws in favour of the Hilux.
All prices are ex-showroom, India.
Uday Singh
Dipan Sur
Dhruv Dhaka
