1997 Isuzu VehiCross Dimensions, Size & Specs

The Isuzu VehiCross has a curb weight of 1,750 kg (approximately 3,858 lbs), which is the weight of the vehicle without passengers or cargo. The maximum weight, inclusive of passengers and cargo, is 2,110 kg (about 4,654 lbs). The relatively moderate weight for an SUV this size helps maintain a balance between off-road performance and on-road handling, ensuring stability and control without sacrificing durability.

This SUV offers a practical luggage capacity of 393 liters (about 13.9 cubic feet) when the rear seats are up, providing ample space for everyday use and short trips. When the rear seats are folded down, the cargo volume increases significantly to 1,426 liters (around 50.3 cubic feet), enabling it to carry larger items and more luggage for longer trips or outdoor adventures.

The Isuzu VehiCross is equipped with 245/70 R16 or 245/60 R18 tires. The 245 mm width provides a broad footprint for traction, essential for off-road stability and on-road grip. The option to have 16-inch or 18-inch wheels offers a balance between ride comfort and sporty handling, with larger wheels enhancing road presence and sharper handling characteristics.

With a height of 1,710 mm (67.3 inches) and width of 1,790 mm (70.5 inches), the Isuzu VehiCross is compact enough to fit comfortably in a standard residential garage, which typically accommodates vehicles up to about 2,000 mm (78.7 inches) in height and 2,400 mm (94.5 inches) in width. Its length of 4,130 mm (162.6 inches) also fits well within typical garage depths, making it practical for everyday residential parking.

The Isuzu VehiCross is smaller in overall dimensions compared to many mid-sized SUVs from the late 1990s. Its length and width are closer to compact SUVs, providing enhanced maneuverability in urban settings while still maintaining off-road competencies. This compactness made it stand out with a sporty design and easier parking compared to bulkier SUVs of the same era.

The VehiCross was quite unique in Isuzu’s lineup, as it did not directly replace a previous VehiCross generation. However, comparing it to other Isuzu SUVs of its time, like the Trooper, the VehiCross was notably smaller and more compact — with about 30-40 cm less length and narrower width, which contributed to its sporty, distinctive niche as a crossover between a compact SUV and a rugged off-roader.

When compared to similar sporty compact SUVs from the late 1990s and early 2000s, such as the Toyota RAV4 or Suzuki Vitara, the VehiCross is competitive in size but with a lower height and unique styling. Its length and width are slightly larger than the Suzuki Vitara but smaller than the Toyota RAV4, positioning it as a niche vehicle with a focus on off-road capability combined with compact dimensions for urban environments.

The interior of the VehiCross, designed for four passengers, is compact but ergonomic, emphasizing driver engagement and off-road readiness. Although the rear seating area is somewhat snug due to the vehicle’s compact footprint, it comfortably accommodates adults for short to medium journeys. The design prioritizes sporty cabin aesthetics and driving dynamics over rear passenger space.

While specific ground clearance numbers are not provided here, the VehiCross is known for its off-road prowess with features such as all-wheel drive and a strong suspension setup focused on rugged terrain capability. Its moderate size and tire options enhance its ability to navigate rough roads, making it suitable for both on-road performance and light to moderate off-road driving.