Toyota has introduced the ninth-generation Hilux with a revamped exterior and interior, along with revisions to its powertrain offering and features. In February 2026, its only other competitor, the Isuzu V-Cross, also debuted with a comprehensive update of its own. Being the only two lifestyle pickup trucks on the market, how do these fare when we compare their on-paper specifications side to side? For this comparison, 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. But the latter is 5mm wider, 35mm taller, and has a 10mm longer wheelbase. Dimensionwise, 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 diesel engine. 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 well. What’s common on both pickups is a 6-speed automatic transmission, AWD layout and 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. But the V-Cross, on the other hand, sports projector-LED headlamps, halogen fog lamps and tail-lamps, and misses out on a rear fog lamp. Moreover, the Hilux is the only one here with a dedicated step to access the trunk and gas struts for the tailgate. However, 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, digital driver’s display, a wireless phone charger and connected-car tech over the V-Cross. But it misses out on convenience features like automatic climate control and a powered driver seat that's found on the latter.
Toyota Hilux vs Isuzu D-Max V-Cross: Safety features
Hilux offers an additional airbag and front parking sensors
Safety-feature-wise, the Hilux and V-Cross come well-equipped with a 360-degree camera, front disc brakes, ISOFIX mounts, day/night IRVM, hill start assist, hill descent control, 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
Hilux top-end pricier by Rs 6.41 lakh
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
Viraaj Bhatnagar
Dipan Sur
