Assalamualaikum PakWheelers! Suneel Munj here with another episode of the Walkaround Series. Today, we’re covering the Isuzu D-Max 5th Generation, but this time with the newly introduced 1.9L diesel turbo engine. This variant, known as the V-Cross, is being launched under the Auto Plus badge in Pakistan.
Earlier, we brought you a walkaround of the 3.0L variant — and while both look nearly identical on the outside, the big difference is in the engine and drivetrain setup.
Engine & Performance
The highlight of this version is the 1.9L diesel turbo engine, which has been introduced to provide a more fuel-efficient and city-friendly option.
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Power: 150 hp
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Torque: 350 Nm
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Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive
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Transmission: 6-speed sequential automatic (can be shifted manually)
Compared to the 3.0L variant, which produces 190 hp and 450 Nm torque, the drop in numbers isn’t massive. Considering it’s rear-wheel drive, Isuzu claims this version will offer better fuel economy, especially in city conditions — a claim we’ll test over time.
Exterior Design
Design-wise, it’s still the bold 5th-generation D-Max you’ve seen before. The styling draws heavy inspiration from the Miura design, giving it a muscular and aggressive stance.
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Front Grille: Miura Style
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Headlights: Full LED with integrated DRLs (which also work as indicators)
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Fog Lamps with air curtains
- Keyless entry
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Wheels: 18-inch silver alloy wheels (unlike the dark matte ones in the 3.0L variant)
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Chrome Door Handles & Silver Side Steps
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Roof Rails: Dark grey
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Side Mirrors: Chrome garnish
Rear End Features:
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Tri-Armour LED tail lights
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Body-colored rear bumper
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High-mounted brake lamp
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Chrome tailgate handle
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Concealed roll bar
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Manual trunk lid stopper
Interior & Features
Inside, you’ll find a clean, stylish all-black cabin, different from the dual-tone options offered in the 3.0L variant. The cabin features a blend of piano black, matte silver, and matte chrome accents that enhance the premium feel.
Interior Highlights:
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Push Start Button
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Manual Telescopic Steering Wheel (with mounted controls)
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8-inch Infotainment System
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Wired Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
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7-inch MID Digital Cluster (between analogue dials)
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Digital + analogue speed display
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Bluetooth, compass, fuel consumption, trip meter, and more
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Comfort & Convenience
Even though this variant is slightly more budget-friendly, it doesn’t compromise too much on features.
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Dual-Zone Digital Climate Control (driver & passenger can set their own temperature)
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No wireless charger
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Manual handbrake
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Downhill assist button
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No 4×4 engagement buttons (being a rear-wheel drive variant)
Seating & Cabin
The seats are wrapped in perforated artificial leather, offering decent comfort.
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Passenger seat: Manually adjustable
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Rear seats: Same space and setup as the 3.0L version
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Rear AC vents & USB charging ports available
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Roof liner: Black, with a sunglass holder
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Rearview mirror: Manual (not auto-dimming)
Safety & Build
In terms of safety, it covers the basics:
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2 Airbags
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Traction Control
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Headlight adjustment
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Standard sound system (not the premium setup found in the 3.0L)
Price & Market Positioning
Ghandhara has launched this 1.9L variant at a starting price of just PKR 1.05 crore (10.5 million). That’s significantly lower than the higher-end models and opens the doors for buyers who:
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Want a pickup for city and family use
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Don’t need off-road 4×4 capabilities
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Prefer better mileage and lower running costs
With the pickup segment growing in Pakistan as a lifestyle choice rather than just utility, this move makes perfect sense.
Final Verdict
This 1.9L V-Cross offers a strong value proposition by retaining most of the features and design of the 3.0L version, but in a more affordable, efficient package. The rear-wheel drive and smaller engine combo might just be what the city-focused pickup buyer in Pakistan needs.
But ultimately, two things will determine its success:
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Real-world fuel average
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On-road performance, especially on highways
Let’s see how it performs over time.
