Used 2001 Isuzu VehiCROSS Consumer Reviews
An original owner... not happy
We bought a 1999 VehiCross when they first came out, to stand out from the crowd. It certainly looks different from anything out there. However, it's all style and very little practicality. The cargo area is relatively small, the back seats have been a joke, visibility is downright dangerous (I feel safer on my motorcycle) and I couldn't stand long distance trips - very uncomfortable after a while. Unfortunately the engine started burning oil like there's no tomorrow (2 qts a month) a few months ago, which I've found out is a normal thing for the 3.5L V6. Now I've just been told it's broken a valve and I need a new engine.... JUST outside the powertrain warranty at 69k miles. Bye bye Isuzu..
Major fun, but no navigation system
The Vehicross has cool, futuristic styling; lots of power, and good torque. But, GPS is not an option (a good nav system is a must if you live in the city). And, it has U-Haul like rear visibility.
What You Want?
In your face fashion statement for some - but underneath its heart is covered in mud. I'm from Africa and worked as Expedition Guide for several years. We travel Africa's worst roads year round - from Cape Town (southern tip of Africa) all the way up as far as Egypt, through the deserts and jungles (which makes the Darienne Gap look like a normal workday in the rainy season). Isuzu together with Toyota are the KINGS for durability and reliability (it does not matter WHAT Landrover's spin doctors say). Drove it 2300 miles in 48 hours once - was a pleasure even on the blacktop. The Vehicross is like a (stubby) pig in mud out there - it is a pity to see it in captivity and out of production.
Almost There
They came very close to building a truly exceptional vehicle. I like almost everything about it. The only problems are the difficulty of getting into the back seat and little oversights like the lack of a power unlock for the rear door.
Truth
The Vehicross needs help in the 4 wheel drive department. Not very useful on-road. Off road, it has been great.