The Isuzu V-Cross, Mahindra Scorpio N, and Mahindra Thar Roxx have generated buzz across India as robust alternatives to the Toyota Hilux. The Isuzu V-Cross is the closest pickup rival to the Hilux, offering a viable cargo bed, a diesel engine, and 4WD capability. On the other hand, the Mahindra Scorpio N offers room for seven people and comes with strong diesel-powered variations in the 4WD segment. At the same time, the Thar Roxx provides hardcore off-road capabilities in a smaller, more equipped lifestyle SUV.
The ninth-generation Toyota Hilux launched in India in July 2026, with prices ranging from approximately ₹31.99 lakh to ₹36.69 lakh ex-showroom. All variants use a 2.8-litre diesel engine producing 204 PS and 500 Nm, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, and buyers can choose between 4×2 and 4×4 versions. Its 80-litre fuel tank, low-range four-wheel drive, electronic differential lock, seven airbags, 12.3-inch touchscreen, and double-cab pickup body make it well suited to buyers who want genuine utility alongside adventure-focused capability.
Quick Summary
- The Isuzu V-Cross is the closest Toyota Hilux competitor because it is also a five-seat lifestyle pickup with diesel power and proper 4WD.
- The Mahindra Scorpio N suits buyers who need six- or seven-seat practicality rather than an open cargo bed.
- The Mahindra Thar Roxx suits buyers who want serious off-road hardware, modern technology, and a more compact five-seat SUV body.
- The Toyota Hilux currently costs approximately ₹31.99 lakh to ₹36.69 lakh ex-showroom.
- Its 2.8-litre diesel produces 204 PS and 500 Nm and is paired exclusively with a six-speed automatic.
- The Hilux is available in 4×2 GX, 4×4 GX, and 4×4 VX variants.
- Four-wheel-drive versions offer H4 and L4 modes, an electronic differential lock, and downhill assist control.
- The right alternative depends on whether you need another pickup, extra passenger seating, or a smaller off-road SUV.
Table of Contents
Price and Mileage Comparison with Toyota Hilux
The Hilux sits in the upper end of India’s lifestyle 4×4 segment. While the V-Cross is cost-effective given its pickup form factor, both the Scorpio N and Thar Roxx offer similar off-road capabilities without cargo beds. Since Toyota has not provided a tangible mileage figure for the new Hilux, customers should not compare unofficial claims to the officially verified mileage of other models.
| Car | Ex-showroom Price Range | Fuel Type | Claimed Mileage |
| Toyota Hilux | ₹31.99 – ₹36.69 lakh | Diesel | Official figure not disclosed |
| Isuzu V-Cross | ₹25.50 – ₹30.00 lakh | Diesel | Around 12.4 km/l |
| Mahindra Scorpio N | ₹13.69 – ₹25.49 lakh | Petrol, Diesel | Petrol: 12.12 – 12.17 km/l; Diesel: 15.42 – 15.94 km/l |
| Mahindra Thar Roxx | ₹12.52 – ₹23.52 lakh | Petrol, Diesel | Petrol: around 12.4 km/l; Diesel: around 15.2 km/l |
Top Alternatives of Toyota Hilux in India
Isuzu V-Cross
In the list, the Isuzu V-Cross is the closest competitor to the Hilux in terms of configuration, as it also combines a double-cab passenger compartment and a separate cargo bed. It has a 1.9-litre turbo-diesel engine generating around 163 PS and 360 Nm. Depending on its variant, customers can choose either a manual or an automatic gearbox with proper 4WD technology.
The V-Cross measures approximately 5,295 mm in length and offers five-seat accommodation. Higher variants add equipment such as a 9-inch touchscreen, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, automatic climate control, cruise control, push-button start, reversing camera, and multiple off-road assistance systems. Six airbags are also available on current higher specifications.
Why it is better than Toyota Hilux
The V-Cross’s biggest advantage is its price: the automatic version is about ₹6.5 lakh cheaper than the most affordable Hilux, and the entry-level version of the 4WD is even cheaper than that. Therefore, potential buyers seeking a lifestyle pickup can get a spacious load bed and proper 4WD at a much lower cost than the Hilux.
The availability of a manual gearbox can also appeal to buyers who prefer greater control while off-roading. The Hilux is considerably more powerful, producing 204 PS and 500 Nm compared with the V-Cross’s roughly 163 PS and 360 Nm. However, the Isuzu remains the more accessible choice for buyers who prioritise pickup practicality over outright performance.
Price Comparison: Isuzu V-Cross vs. Toyota Hilux
Both pickups have relatively small variant ranges, although the V-Cross offers a lower entry point.
| Variant | Isuzu V-Cross | Toyota Hilux |
| Base-variant | Around ₹25.50 lakh | Around ₹31.99 lakh |
| Mid-variant | Around ₹27.00 lakh | Around ₹33.69 lakh |
| Top-variant | Around ₹30.00 lakh | Around ₹36.69 lakh |
Mahindra Scorpio N
The Mahindra Scorpio N is a robust alternative to the Hilux and suits buyers who need ladder-frame capability and 4WD but don’t need a load bed. With configurations available for six- and seven-passenger seating, it also scores above its competitors in passenger-carrying efficiency.
Its 2.0-litre turbo-petrol produces up to around 203 PS, while the 2.2-litre diesel delivers up to around 175 PS and 400 Nm depending on transmission. Six-speed manual and torque-converter automatic gearboxes are available, while selected diesel variants offer proper 4WD with terrain modes.
Why it is better than Toyota Hilux
When it comes to passenger practicality, the Scorpio N definitely has the upper hand. The Hilux seats five passengers while dedicating considerable body length to the cargo bed, whereas the Scorpio N uses its length to create a three-row cabin designed to carry 6 or 7 passengers. For this reason, families not making extensive or excessive transport of dirty or heavy items will find Mahindra preferable in day-to-day life.
It is also dramatically cheaper. Even the flagship diesel 4WD automatic costs around ₹25.49 lakh, more than ₹6 lakh below the entry Hilux. Higher Scorpio N variants offer ventilated seats, premium Sony audio, large digital displays, a panoramic sunroof, 540-degree camera, and Level 2 ADAS. The Hilux remains better for carrying cargo and demanding commercial-style use, but the Scorpio N offers more family value.
Price Comparison: Mahindra Scorpio N vs. Toyota Hilux
The entire Scorpio N range sits below the Hilux, including its fully equipped diesel 4WD automatic.
| Variant | Mahindra Scorpio N | Toyota Hilux |
| Base-variant | Around ₹13.69 lakh | Around ₹31.99 lakh |
| Mid-variant | Around ₹17 – ₹21 lakh | Around ₹33.69 lakh |
| Top-variant | Up to ₹25.49 lakh | Around ₹36.69 lakh |
Also Read: Mahindra Scorpio N Variants Guide: Choose the Best Variant
Mahindra Thar Roxx
The Mahindra Thar Roxx comes across as the lifestyle-oriented competition to the Hilux. It is based on a body-on-frame architecture and relies on a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol and a 2.2-litre diesel engine. The petrol models generate around 177 PS and 380 Nm of torque, and the higher-spec diesel auto versions produce about 175 PS and 370 Nm.
Rear-wheel drive is available across several lower variants, while selected diesel versions get 4WD with low-range gearing. The 4XPLOR system adds terrain modes, while higher 4WD variants include an electronic locking differential, SmartCrawl, and IntelliTurn for difficult off-road situations.
Why it is better than Toyota Hilux
The Thar Roxx is significantly simpler to operate as an everyday vehicle. At only 4,428 mm long, it is considerably shorter than a full-size double-cab pickup, making it easier to park and drive in heavy traffic. The closed boot adds convenience to luggage transport compared to the pickup option, which means that it becomes easier to carry one’s luggage.
Higher variants are packed with features, including a panoramic sunroof, twin 10.25-inch displays, powered and ventilated front seats, a 360-degree camera, Harman Kardon audio, and Level 2 ADAS. The Thar Roxx also carries a five-star Bharat NCAP rating. The Hilux remains superior for payload duties and offers much more torque, but the Roxx is the more sensible option for buyers who want off-road capability primarily for recreation.
Price Comparison: Mahindra Thar Roxx vs. Toyota Hilux
The Thar Roxx is much cheaper throughout its range, even when comparing its fully loaded diesel 4WD variants.
| Variant | Mahindra Thar Roxx | Toyota Hilux |
| Base-variant | Around ₹12.52 lakh | Around ₹31.99 lakh |
| Mid-variant | Around ₹16 – ₹20 lakh | Around ₹33.69 lakh |
| Top-variant | Up to ₹23.52 lakh | Around ₹36.69 lakh |
Also Read: Complete Guide to Buying a Mahindra Thar Roxx
Summary
For buyers who really want a premium pickup, the Toyota Hilux is still an excellent option. The truck’s 204 PS diesel engine, which produces 500 Nm of torque, its available all-wheel-drive system that can be used in low range, its spacious cargo area, and its durability make it capable of doing things that regular SUVs cannot do.
Choose the Isuzu V-Cross for similar pickup practicality at a lower price, the Scorpio N for seven-seat family usability and available 4WD, or the Thar Roxx for recreational off-roading and premium features in a smaller package. The Hilux remains the strongest choice when cargo carrying and rugged utility are as important as passenger comfort.
Related Reads:
The Top 4×4 Cars in India To Conquer Every Terrain
Mahindra Thar Roxx Alternatives: Competitors of Mahindra Thar Roxx
Mahindra Scorpio N Alternatives: Competitors of Mahindra Scorpio N (Facelift)
FAQs About Toyota Hilux Alternatives
Q. What are the best alternatives to the Toyota Hilux?
The Isuzu V-Cross, Mahindra Scorpio N, and Mahindra Thar Roxx are three strong alternatives. The V-Cross is the only direct pickup rival, while the Mahindras offer SUV practicality with 4WD capability.
Q. Which is cheaper, Toyota Hilux or Isuzu V-Cross?
The Isuzu V-Cross is cheaper. It starts at around ₹25.50 lakh, while the new Hilux begins at approximately ₹31.99 lakh ex-showroom.
Q. Which is more powerful, Toyota Hilux or Isuzu V-Cross?
The Hilux is more powerful. Its 2.8-litre diesel produces 204 PS and 500 Nm, compared with roughly 163 PS and 360 Nm from the V-Cross.
Q. Does the Toyota Hilux offer 4WD?
Yes. The GX and VX 4×4 variants offer high- and low-range four-wheel drive along with an electronic differential lock and downhill assist control.
Q. Which Toyota Hilux alternative is best for families?
The Mahindra Scorpio N is the strongest family alternative because it offers six- and seven-seat configurations and significantly more passenger-focused cabin space.
Q. Which Hilux alternative is best for off-roading?
The Isuzu V-Cross and Thar Roxx are both capable. The V-Cross retains pickup practicality, while the Thar Roxx combines low-range 4WD and electronic locking hardware with a smaller, easier-to-manage SUV body.
