The Isuzu VehiCROSS is a compact SUV that lived a short life in the States, just three years on sale. Despite its limited time on the market, it remains one of the strangest and most compelling SUVs of the late 1990s and early 2000s. The quirky vehicle was built to actually go off-road, with a hardware focus that modern crossovers wouldn’t recognize.
This example crossed the block in Denver earlier this week, and it might be the wildest VehiCROSS we’ve come across. It ultimately sold for $12,000, considering everything packed underneath, that number looks like a good deal.
When it was new, Isuzu offered the SUV with 3.2-liter and 3.5-liter V6 engines. However, this particular model has neither. Instead, it’s equipped with Toyota’s legendary 1UZ-FE 4.0-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine, originally built for the Lexus LS 400.
The engine has been upgraded with a new intake manifold, coil-on-plug conversion, and works alongside the five-speed manual transmission of a Hummer H3. This combination provides a unique blend of power and control for off-road driving.
Bring a Trailer listed the VehiCROSS’s hardware in detail, including an NR6 dual-range transfer case, air lockers, Isuzu 4.77:1 differentials, and Aisin manually locking front hubs. The massive 35-inch General Grabber X3 tires wrapped around 15-inch aftermarket wheels add to the vehicle’s off-road capabilities.
The build prioritizes off-road performance over everything else, with a new hood vent to keep the V8 cool, a large roof basket, an LED light bar, and a custom front bumper with two recovery points. These upgrades demonstrate the seller's commitment to creating a capable off-road vehicle.
Despite its impressive hardware, the interior remains mostly standard, with a Pioneer infotainment display and a digital instrument cluster. The total mileage at the time of the auction is estimated at around 225,000 miles (362,000 km).
This sale highlights the enduring appeal of unique vehicles that cater to specific needs. As the market continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how collectors and enthusiasts respond to this type of vehicle.
The Isuzu VehiCROSS may not have been a mainstream success during its time on the market, but it has proven itself to be a fascinating and capable off-road vehicle. Its sale for $12,000 is a testament to its enduring appeal and the value that collectors place on unique vehicles with a strong focus on performance.
This sale highlights the enduring appeal of unique vehicles that cater to specific needs.
