Here is a list of the issues faced by the owners of the Isuzu D-Max V-Cross in India.

Isuzu D-Max V-Cross 2
The Isuzu D-Max V-Cross rivals the Mahindra Scorpio Getaway and Tata Xenon XT

At the outset, make no mistake, the Isuzu D-Max V-Cross is a fantastic value for money product for the price it comes at, for the features it brings to the table and last but not the least for the need it serves. Isuzu launched the D-Max V-Cross in the Indian market last year but sales haven’t been that good for the automaker.

While the existing owners of the vehicle are happy, there have been several issues reported that is making the overall ownership experience quite annoying. Here is a point-wise list of the issues:

* First up is the powertrain. Isuzu sells the D-Max V-Cross with the 2.5-litre diesel engine in India, whereas the international-spec model gets a bigger 3.0-litre unit. We understand that a smaller engine translates into better fuel efficiency, but why is it that we always get a lower-spec model?

* We know of 4 V-Cross vehicles of which one has its differential pinions broken, one who’s axle shaft has failed, one with gearbox and transfer case issues and finally one with screwed up suspension mounts and front axle issues.

* Third is the lack of a tow hook at the rear. It is common sense that people buying the V-Cross will venture into off-road trails and a tow hook at the rear would have come handy in case the car got stuck in say, slushy mud, etc. This has resulted in people tying the ropes or cables to the rear axles which might damage them.

* The D-Max V-Cross comes with a shift on fly 4WD transmission which essentially means that it isn’t a full-time 4WD car. When the 4WD mode is engaged on the tarmac, as power is being distributed to all four wheels, there is no center differential to compensate for the difference in rotational speeds of the front and rear axles. The mechanical components will start to bind instead of moving freely. This leads to drivetrain windup or binding. Hence, using the 4WD mode on smooth tarmac damages the vehicle’s drivetrain and transmission.

* Fifth, is the D-Box issues. For those not aware of what the D-Box is, it is essentially a cover for the rear cargo carrying deck. Removing it and re-installing isn’t a DIY (Do it Yourself) job. One needs to take the car to the mechanic to get this task done.

* Sixth is the wheelbase of the car. The long wheelbase might help it carry loads of cargo and more passengers but on the flipside, there is a disadvantage. When you take the vehicle off-road, due to the long wheelbase, the car is prone to underbody hits and scraps, if you aren’t cautious while driving.

* Last but not the least is the poor after sales network of Isuzu across India.

Isuzu D-Max V-Cross Issues

– Isuzu has been able to price the D-Max V-Cross very reasonably due to the smaller 2.5 diesel engine
– The facelifted Isuzu D-Max V-Cross will be launched soon in India
– The Isuzu D-Max V-Cross with the 3.0-litre diesel engine will not make it to India

Isuzu D-Max V-Cross 3
The car has a huge road presence and measures over 5 metres in length