2026 Isuzu V-Cross Launched in India: Why the 4×2 Model is Officially Dead

I’ve always had a soft spot for the Isuzu V-Cross—it’s one of the few vehicles on our roads that actually looks like it could eat a pothole for breakfast. Well, Isuzu just dropped the 2026 model year update, and it’s a bit of a “good news, bad news” situation.

The big shocker? The entry-level 4×2 model is officially history. If you want a V-Cross now, you’re going 4×4 or nothing. But honestly, with the new tech they’ve packed inside, this “Adventure Utility Vehicle” finally feels like it belongs in 2026.

A More Polished Exterior

You’ll have to look closely to spot the changes, but they make a difference. The truck looks a lot cleaner and slightly more “urban-premium” while keeping its rugged DNA.

• Front Fascia: The grille now gets a sleek black surround, and those chunky silver skid plates have been replaced by a more subtle body-coloured finish.

• Wheel Game: The top-spec Z Prestige trim now rolls on new 18-inch 12-spoke diamond-cut alloy wheels.

• Cleaner Profile: Isuzu has ditched the bulky black wheel-arch cladding for a smoother, body-coloured look.

• Lighting: You’re still getting those sharp Bi-LED projector headlamps, but the ORVMs now feature slimmer, more modern LED turn indicators.

Why it matters: The V-Cross has always looked “tough,” but these tweaks help it look less like a commercial workhorse and more like a lifestyle choice you’d be proud to park at a high-end cafe.

The Tech Cabin Upgrade

This is where the 2026 model really wins. For years, the V-Cross interior felt a bit dated, but they’ve finally fixed the “tech gap.”

• The Screen: There’s a new 10.3-inch floating touchscreen (up from 9 inches) that supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

• Safety & Vision: One of my favorite additions is the 360-degree camera system. Trying to park a 5.3-meter truck in Delhi or Mumbai is a nightmare; this makes it a breeze.

• Interior Vibe: You get a new black-and-tan (or brown) leatherette theme on the dashboard and door pads, which definitely levels up the cabin feel.

• Sound: An 8-speaker system with roof-mounted speakers ensures your off-road soundtrack hits differently.

Why it matters: A bigger, faster screen and a 360-degree camera aren’t just “fluff”—they are essential for a vehicle this size. It finally feels like a modern cockpit.

4×4 Mastery as Standard

Under the hood, the reliable 1.9-litre diesel engine (163 PS / 360 Nm) remains unchanged. However, the drivetrain story is the lead headline.

• No More 4×2: Isuzu has scrapped the rear-wheel-drive versions to focus entirely on off-roaders.

• Off-Road Edge: Every single variant now comes with an auto-locking rear differential as standard.

Why it matters: By making 4×4 and the locking diff standard, Isuzu is leaning into its identity. It’s no longer trying to compete with soft-roaders; it’s positioning itself as a serious, capable tool for people who actually leave the tarmac.

2026 Pricing (Ex-Showroom)

With the Hilux as its only real rival, the V-Cross remains the more “attainable” beast. If you’ve been waiting for a reason to finally buy one, that 10.3-inch screen and 360-degree camera might just be the nudge you needed.