Toyota Hilux to New Isuzu V-Cross - 3 Upcoming Pickups in India in 2021

With India seeing a surge of demand for anything that looks like an SUV, it is just a matter of time till the lifestyle pickup trucks can be the next big thing. Currently, these are only niche offerings, with only Isuzu having a proper premium pickup in the Indian market but other automakers are exploring the idea as well. In fact, new pickups have been spotted testing in India already. As per reports, at least 3 new pickup trucks could be launch in the Indian market in the next 2 years or so. There have already been spy shots of the Toyota Hilux pickup being tested in Indian conditions, and the Ford Ranger has been spotted as well. 

Isuzu, which has the D-Max already in the market, is preparing to launch the BS-VI compliant V-Cross premium pickup with the vehicle already up with a coming soon sign on the official Isuzu India website. Today we take a look at all three pickups that are coming to India.

Toyota Hilux

A nigh-on indestructible piece of machinery, the Toyota Hilux is legendary for its off-road prowess and reliability with the current generation being underpinned by the same ladder-frame chassis as the Innova Crysta and the Fortuner. The pickup also shares engine options, braking, and suspension mechanicals with the two.

The Toyota Hilux is powered by a 2.8-litre 4-cylinder turbo-diesel that makes max power and torque of 201 PS/500 Nm with the new model claiming to have both more power figures and better fuel efficiency. A 4x4, as well as a 4x2 drivetrain system, will be on offer.

Ford Ranger

The Ford Ranger will be based on the current Endeavour SUV and will share powertrain options and mechanicals, much like the Hilux and the Fortuner. The Indian-spec version may use the Endeavour’s new 2-litre turbo-diesel that churns out 164 PS/ 420 Nm of peak power and torque figures which is mated to a 10-speed torque converter auto. The Ranger will also get full-time 4WD, locking differentials, traction control, and more. 

New Isuzu V-Cross

The BS-VI Isuzu V-cross should retain the overall design of its predecessor but will get a new grille, LED headlamps, blacked-out B-pillar, and new 18-inch diamond-cut alloys. The new model will likely come with a 2.5-litre turbo-diesel which in BS-IV form, made 134 PS/ 320 Nm of max power and torque.