2018 Isuzu D-Max V-Cross comes with a new range-topping variant with added features like LED DRLs; design modifications are limited to the rear end
Isuzu D-Max pickup truck received a facelift in Thailand and other foreign countries back in November 2017 with a revised front fascia, new colour options and additional safety equipment package. Amidst having expected to arrive in the Indian market only sometime later this year, the brand appeared to have other ideas. We showed you the spy shots of the 2018 D-Max snapped at a dealership last week and now it has officially been launched.
The Japanese company did not look to be keen on implementing the global updates for India-spec D-Max V-Cross. The front portion is just the same as the outgoing model with chromed-out grille and a masculine body in familiar shape along with projector headlamps, 16-inch wheels and roof rails. Isuzu could bring the major updates in an year or two considering that the MU-X will have to adopt the facelifted design and it is less than two months old in the market.
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The styling modifications made to the rear end of the global facelift have been drafted in though as the 2018 Isuzu D-Max V-Cross features chrome inserts on the bumper and the tailgate has been redesigned. What claims to be “Adventure Utility Vehicle” has so far been sold in a single 4×4 variant but now an additional range-topper will be offered.
The 2018 Isuzu D-Max pickup has been made available in two variants: V-Cross and V-Cross High. They are priced at Rs. 14,27,344 and Rs. 15,77,344 (ex-showroom, Andhra Pradesh) respectively while Isuzu dealers across the country have started accepting initial amount for booking.The top-spec V-Cross High model gets more features compared to the lower variant and the fog lamps are replaced by LED Daytime Running Lights. The tail lamps receive new LED graphics as well along with chrome rear bumper.
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Inside the cabin, the updated Isuzu D-Max pickup truck remains identical to the outgoing model. Therefore, we do not have a larger nine-inch touchscreen infotainment system with various connectivity options as in the global-spec version. Instead, the standard seven-inch system continues with multi-functional steering wheel with audio controls, USB, DVD, AUX, iPod and Bluetooth connectivity and electro-luminescent meters with MID (Multi Information Display).
On the safety front, the 2018MY version comprises of dual airbags, ABS with EBD, Brake Assist, Traction Control, Electronic Stability Control, Hill Start Assist and Hill Descent Control along with the addition of cruise control and reverse parking camera as standard currently. The interior carries a black theme with equipment like multi-functional steering wheel with mounted controls and the seats upholstered in black leather. In the top-spec V-Cross High, the driver seat can be six-way electrically adjustable.
Also read: Isuzu MU-X SUV Launched in India at Rs. 23.99 Lakh
The Thailand-spec Isuzu D-Max is available in two different engine options that are 1.9-litre VGS turbo diesel motor and a larger and more powerful 3.0-litre VGS turbo oil burner. The smaller engine is available with a 6-speed manual gearbox and a 6-speed automatic unit and it is capable of churning out 150 hp of peak power and 350 Nm of peak torque.
The larger diesel engine is coupled with a 5-speed manual gearbox and there is a 6-speed automatic unit on offer as well. This motor kicks out 177 hp of peak power and 380 Nm of peak torque. Rumors suggest there would be a new 2.4-litre engine on offer from this year globally.
However, India-spec model sticks with the same powertrain without any mechanical changes. The 2018 Isuzu D-Max V-Cross gets power from the 2.5-litre high-pressure CRDI (Common Rail Fuel Injection Diesel) engine pumping out 134 hp and 320 Nm of peak torque between 1,800 and 2,800 rpm. It coupled with a five-speed manual transmission and features 4WD (shift-on-fly) drive mode.
Manufactured at the brand’s Sri City plant in Andhra Pradesh, the 2018 D-Max V-Cross will likely be showcased at the upcoming Auto Expo in early February as well considering that the existing model first debuted there before going on sale. Isuzu could accompany the D-Max with its Spark variant at the motoring exhibition as domestic CV share is being targeted. The new colour option you see in the pictures is named Ruby Red and it joins the palette composing of Orchid Brown, Cosmic Black, Titanium Silver, Obsidian Grey and Splash White.
2018 Isuzu D-Max V-Cross Pickup Truck Images
