NEW DELHI: The pick-up truck from Isuzu the D-Max V-Cross has created a unique space for itself ever since it was launched in India a few years ago. It really appealed to the adventure lovers as it promised a combination of rugged and durable off-roading capability and passenger vehicle like comfort. But the arrival of BS6 emission norms meant the Japanese carmaker had to stop the sales of the SUV in the market. After a rather long wait the V-Cross is back with a new BS6 compliant diesel engine and a more affordable Hi-lander variant. Along with it the company has also launched the BS6 version of its 7-seater SUV the mu-X in the market.
D-MAX V-CROSS
The higher Z Prestige and Z variants of the V-Cross come equipped with Bi-LED auto-levelling projector headlights, shark-fin antenna with gun-metal finish, 18-inch alloy wheels and a sidestep to add a sportier look and user convenience. The Hi-Lander has a high ride suspension that offers higher ground clearance, wider track with longer wheelbase. Here the headlamps are not as flashy, outside rear-view mirrors are grey in colour and 16-inch steel wheels come with wheel covers.
Inside the cabin the V-Cross variants come with steering mounted audio controls and a 7” touch screen audio system with USB input, DVD, AUX, iPod and Bluetooth connectivity. The Z Prestige variant has premium finish dashboard featuring piano black highlights with soft-touch panels and comes with a dual tone brown and grey leather seating. It also gets electrically adjustable driver’s seat, 8-speaker audio system with roof-mounted speakers and cruise control. The Hi-Lander and V-Cross variants come with a 3D Instrument Cluster with chrome rings, AC vents on the 2nd row which also gets a USB Charging Port and a black and grey cabin layout. While the Hi-lander gets manual AC and parking sensors the top variant comes with climate control and reverse parking camera.
The pick-up now comes with 1.9 litre diesel engine that produces 163 PS and a peak torque of 360 Nm @ 2000-2500 rpm. Isuzu claims that the technologically advanced engine enables better and complete combustion at all engine speeds and the NVH levels are lower too. You can choose between a 6-speed manual transmission and a 6-Speed Automatic depending upon the variant you buy. The 4WD variants get a terrain command feature Shift-On-Fly drive mode, high ride suspension that offers high ground clearance and wider track with longer wheelbase.
The SUV comes with iGRIP platform (Isuzu Gravity Response Intelligent Platform) for better durability and stability. The BOS (Brake Override System) cuts power to the engine in case of panic braking (when the brake and accelerator pedals are being depressed at the same time). The Z Prestige variant has electronic stability control with traction control System and hill descent control. A 4-Channel, 4-Sensor anti-lock Braking System with electronic brake force distribution which avoids wheel locking is also on offer. Prices range from Rs. 16.98 lakh (ex-showroom) for the 2WD manual transmission Hi-Lander to Rs. 24.49 lakh for V-cross Z Prestige 4WD automatic.
ISUZU MU-X
The MU-X full size 7-seater SUV has not had it very easy in the market because it had to take on the likes of Toyota Fortuner and Ford Endeavour. The BS6 version of the car according to the company comes with soft leather seats, adjustable headrests for all seats and a comfortable third row. The one touch split/fold seats in both, the second and third row is a practical feature to have. It also features a twin cockpit design with controls that are accessible for both, the driver and the front passenger. Other features in the cabin include a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, electrically adjustable driver’s seat, park assist with rear-view camera, automatic climate control, traction control and cruise control.
The 1.9L diesel finds a place here as well which means that the SUV is a little less powerful than earlier. The mu-X is available in both 4×2 (Rs. 33.23 lakh) and 4×4 (Rs. 35.19 lakh) variants but only with a 6-speed Automatic Transmission and there is no manual on offer. The 4×4 variant sports a ‘shift-on-the-fly’ 4×4 select dial for better off-roading capability. Isuzu says the Penta-Link rear suspension provides a comfortable experience for all passengers.
The writer is Senior Editor at carandbike.com.