Dominating the trails: Isuzu V-CROSS & X-RIDER in action at the Défi Moteurs Off-road festival

Both the Isuzu V-CROSS and X-RIDER were in high demand during the test drive sessions, with visitors eager to get behind the wheel. The V-CROSS impressed drivers with its raw strength and control across rugged tracks, proving its mettle in real off-road conditions. Meanwhile, the X-RIDER captivated test drivers with its eye-catching design and bold road presence.

The Isuzu V-Cross is a trusted name among off-road enthusiasts, thanks to its rugged build, strong engine, and advanced drivetrain technologies. Designed to handle punishing terrains, it blends raw durability with modern off-road features to deliver dependable performance in the wild.
 

Built on a durable body-on-frame (ladder chassis) platform, the V-Cross is engineered for strength and resilience. Under the hood, the V-Cross is powered by a robust diesel engine delivering 164PS and 360Nm of torque is mated to a choice of 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission and is ideal for climbing, towing, and crawling over uneven ground. Paired with a 4WD shift-on-the-fly system, rear differential lock and a wading depth of up to 800mm.

Adding to its capability, the V-CROSS was fitted with BFGoodrich KO3 all-terrain tyres, providing exceptional grip, durability, and traction over loose surfaces, rocks, and mud.

•    Rear Differential Lock: Enhances traction by locking both rear wheels together when one loses grip, especially useful in mud, sand, or uneven trails.
•    Hill Descent Control (HDC): Automatically regulates speed and braking when descending steep slopes, allowing the driver to focus on steering.
•    Hill Start Assist (HSA): Prevents rollback when moving off from a standstill on an incline, giving the driver added confidence.
 

The Isuzu D-Max X-Rider  isn’t just built to look bold it’s engineered for real-world adventure. Thanks to its robust chassis, off-road-focused drivetrain, and a suite of driver-assist features, the X-Rider confidently tackles challenging terrain while offering stand-out visual appeal.
 

Fitted with BFGoodrich KO3 tyres, the X-RIDER gained enhanced traction and stability, making it even more capable when facing rough trails, gravel, and steep inclines.
 

The Rough Terrain Mode works in harmony with the rear differential lock to enhance the traction control system. When activated, it intelligently modulates brake and engine output to improve grip across uneven or low-traction terrain, making it ideal for gravel, mud, or rocky paths.

These features offer better control on inclines.
•    Hill Descent Control automatically manages braking on steep descents, ensuring smooth and safe downhill navigation without constant pedal input.
•    Hill Start Assist prevents rollback when pulling away on an incline, giving drivers more control in off-road and urban scenarios alike.

The X-Rider’s durable steel underbody protection, including sump and transfer case guards, shields vital components from rocks and debris. Built on Isuzu’s proven ladder-frame chassis, the X-Rider offers excellent structural rigidity and durability, providing a strong foundation for off-road performance.

Thanks to its elevated ride height and well-calibrated suspension, the X-Rider offers substantial ground clearance, enabling it to handle uneven terrain, potholes, and off-road obstacles with ease.

Powered by a 1.9-litre turbo diesel engine, the X-Rider strikes a balance between fuel efficiency and usable torque. While not the most powerful in its class, the engine delivers dependable low-end grunt ideal for towing, payloads, and navigating difficult off-road environments.

Both the Isuzu V-CROSS and X-RIDER came ready for the wild, equipped with the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3 tyres built to thrive where the road ends. Designed for serious off-roaders, the KO3 offers incredible durability, grip, and confidence across rugged trails.

Crafted with a new tread pattern and advanced all-terrain compound, the KO3 is engineered for long-lasting performance, even over sharp gravel and uneven surfaces. Its optimised footprint and full-depth locking 3D sipes ensure even wear and consistent traction throughout its lifespan.

Developed from BFGoodrich’s racing experience in Baja, the CoreGard Technology reinforces the tyre’s sidewalls for enhanced toughness. Paired with Advanced Deflection Design, the KO3 is built to resist stone damage and prevent sticks from splitting the sidewall, critical features for any serious off-road enthusiast.

The aggressive serrated shoulder and mud-phobic bars push the KO3 even further, offering superior grip in muddy terrain and allowing the V-CROSS and X-RIDER to dominate Avalon’s off-road course with ease.

From hands-on test drives to jaw-dropping terrain demonstrations, visitors got to feel the Isuzu difference firsthand. Whether you are a seasoned off-roader or simply looking for a pickup that’s tough, bold, and reliable, this event proved that Isuzu is built for it all.
 

Couldn’t make it to the event? No problem. Visit your nearest Isuzu showroom and discover the V-CROSS and X-RIDER up close. And if you’re ready to take your adventures off the beaten path, Isuzu is ready for you.