Pickup cars are designed for buyers who need extra space to carry goods along with a comfortable cabin for passengers. Traditionally used for farming and heavy-duty work, they have also evolved into lifestyle vehicles in India, offering SUV-like features and capability along with an open cargo bed.
Pickup Cars Available in India
The pickup cars in India currently have 3 models, out of which 2 are currently on sale, and 1 is upcoming. The Isuzu D-Max V-Cross and Toyota Hilux are the two pickup cars currently available, with prices ranging from around Rs 25.50 lakh for the D-Max V-Cross to Rs 36.69 lakh for the Hilux. The Mahindra Scorpio Lifestyler is the upcoming model in this segment and is expected to launch in 2027. It is likely to be priced below Rs 19.79 lakh (ex-showroom), which is expected to be more affordable than the two pickups currently on sale.
The Toyota Hilux and Isuzu D-Max V-Cross both use diesel engines and body-on-frame construction, making them suitable for off-road use. The Isuzu D-Max V-Cross is available with both manual and automatic transmission options, while the Toyota Hilux comes with a 6-speed automatic gearbox and 4WD. The upcoming Mahindra Scorpio Lifestyler is expected to be offered with a manual gearbox.
Which 4x4 pickup is best?
For buyers looking for a 4x4 pickup in India, the Toyota Hilux is the better 4x4 pickup for power and off-road ability. Its 2.8-litre diesel makes 204hp and 500Nm, compared with 163hp and 360Nm from the Isuzu D-Max V-Cross. However, the V-Cross offers better value, starting at Rs 25.50 lakh, compared with Rs 31.99 lakh for the Hilux.
Parameter
Toyota Hilux
Isuzu D-Max V-Cross
Engine
2.8-litre diesel
1.9-litre diesel
Power
204hp
163hp
Torque
500Nm
360Nm
Transmission
6-speed automatic
6-speed MT / 6-speed AT
4x4
Yes
Yes
4x4 hardware
High/low range + electronic differential lock
Shift-on-the-fly 4WD
Starting price
Rs 31.99 lakh
Rs 25.50 lakh
Character
More powerful and premium
More affordable and rugged
What is the difference between a pickup and a truck?
A pickup is a type of light truck that combines a passenger cabin with an open cargo bed. While both are designed to carry loads, pickups are generally smaller and more focused on everyday usability, passenger comfort, and light-duty work.
Trucks, on the other hand, are typically larger and built primarily for commercial use and carrying heavier loads. The key differences are their size, purpose, cargo capacity, and overall design.
Feature
Pickup
Truck
Basic design
Enclosed cabin with an open cargo bed
Usually a cab with a larger cargo body or load platform
Primary purpose
Passenger use + carrying smaller loads
Commercial goods transportation
Size
Generally smaller and easier to manoeuvre
Generally larger and heavier
Passenger comfort
Usually designed to accommodate passengers comfortably
Cabin is primarily designed around commercial use
Cargo area
Fixed open bed integrated into the vehicle
Larger load body, which can vary depending on application
Off-road ability
Many lifestyle pickups offer 4x4
Depends on the type of truck and its intended use
Typical use
Lifestyle, recreation, farms, light commercial work
Heavy goods transportation and commercial applications
Trending Questions on Pick-up Cars - Answered by Autocar Experts
•7w
Will Scorpio Lifestyler change Indian pickup culture?? Probably the pickup segment will take a leap with its launch. It has already made a fan base.
•10w
Hi AAA, My name is Richu, and I'm from Kerala. I'm keen on buying a lifestyle pickup truck. I don't really have a practical use case for it. It's purely a passion purchase, and I want something that stands out from ordinary vehicles. It will be my secondary car, mainly used for occasional family trips and some mild off-roading.
I recently test-drove both the Isuzu V-Cross and the Toyota Hilux. I loved the Hilux for its strong performance and, the availability of a locking rear differential. However, I wasn't impressed with its ride quality. It felt quite stiff, and there was noticeable pitching from the back.
When I drove the V-Cross on the same stretch of road, the ride felt much more comfortable. I also preferred the V-Cross for its looks and overall ride comfort.
Now I'm confused about which one to buy. The Hilux is based on Toyota's current-generation platform, whereas the V-Cross is based on a much older platform. Toyota also has a stronger service network than Isuzu.
So, it's a classic heart vs mind dilemma, and I'd really appreciate your help in choosing between these two vehicles.
Pick-up cars are vehicles with a front cabin and an open load bed. They are ideal for buyers who need to carry equipment or goods while maintaining basic passenger comfort.
Pick-up cars can be driven in the city, but are not ideal for the task due to their fairly large sizes, which can hinder manoeuvrability on tight or crowded roads.
Those who favour rugged cars with good off-road capabilities and lots of space to stow luggage for a weekend getaway can consider buying a pick-up car in India.
Pick-up cars like the Toyota Hilux and Isuzu D-Max V-Cross are decently comfortable to drive and pack a lot of useful features.
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