As far as the first crossover suv... well the Suburban travelall goes back to the early 50's at least...the Jeepster would have a pretty good case as real first (50's)...but, Benz built the grandaddy of them all, a four wheel drive, all road, and non road capable, 3 or 4 ton monster before the first world war, for a German government official in southern Africa. Fords claim is dubious at best,but certainly not because of the Vehicross. I'm not sure if Isuzu invented the word crossover, but I'm certain they did not invent the concept.