Indeed, you require this Isuzu Vehicross that has been fitted with a Lexus V8 and a five-speed transmission.

      **Bring a Trailer**

      The Isuzu Vehicross deserves greater appreciation. Despite its eccentric design, it’s a truly capable off-roader with features that would still be impressive in today’s SUVs. Although it struggled in terms of sales at the time, this rarity makes it an appealing option for those looking for something unique. As demonstrated by this build, there is significant potential for modifications.

      Currently available on Bring a Trailer, this 1999 model represents one of the best Vehicross builds. Instead of the factory-installed 3.2-liter or 3.5-liter V6, it boasts a 4.0-liter V8 engine. The powertrain is a 1UZ-FE, which was originally found in the first-generation Lexus LS and GS, along with various JDM Toyota vehicles. The seller notes that this is a JDM-spec engine, lacking variable valve timing and exhaust gas recirculation. Additionally, it has an aftermarket intake manifold and ECU along with several other modifications. While the output isn’t specified, the 1UZ produced 250 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque in the original USDM Lexus LS 400.

      The Lexus V8 is paired with a five-speed manual transmission from a Hummer H3 and an NR6 two-speed transfer case featuring a Behemoth Drivetrain manual-shift conversion kit. The differentials remain Isuzu components but have been upgraded with air lockers and 4.77:1 gearing.

      The Vehicross features dual-reservoir shock absorbers—quite rare as a factory option for any vehicle in the 1990s. According to the seller, the KYB units were rebuilt to enhance ride comfort. They manage the performance of the 35-inch General Grabber X3 tires mounted on 15-inch wheels. Additional off-road equipment includes custom skid plates, an LED light bar, a roof basket, a rear bumper guard, a reinforced front bumper (both bumpers equipped with recovery points), rocker guards, and a winch. The exterior metal is painted in a non-factory blue, while the plastic cladding is covered with Line-X spray-on bed liner.

      Currently situated in Colorado (but titled in South Dakota), this could represent a reasonably priced, ready-to-go off-road vehicle. Bidding was below $10,000 at the time of writing, and the last V8-swapped Vehicross we encountered had an asking price of $7,499. There seems to be little demand for what is undeniably a unique option.

      The Vehicross blended quintessential 1990s styling (partially designed by Shiro Nakamura, known for the Nissan GT-R R35) with advanced technology for its time, including the dual-reservoir shocks and a computer-controlled four-wheel drive system. Isuzu aimed to create a rally homologation special, fitting for a company that was concurrently selling a Lotus-tuned compact and attempting to build an F1 engine. It’s hard not to appreciate an automaker that engaged in such ventures while also marketing traditional body-on-frame SUVs like the Trooper and Rodeo.

      However, by the time the Vehicross debuted in the U.S. in 1999, Isuzu’s body-on-frame SUV lineup was starting to seem outdated compared to emerging crossovers, and it was not the success Isuzu needed. A steep price of approximately $30,000 (and possibly the distinctive styling) led to its decline. Fewer than 5,000 units were sold before it was removed from showrooms in 2002. Isuzu continued its U.S. operations for a few more years but didn't last long enough to benefit from the renewed interest in body-on-frame vehicles that could have supported its comeback.