Japanese SUV "Isuzu-Rodeo": technical characteristics and advantages of the car

Powerful and attractive crossover "Isuzu-Rodeo" was very popular at the time. The audience was presented to him in 1989, and the production lasted until 2004. Then this model was replaced by the car Isuzu Rodeo Denver, which is published until now. But I would like to give a little more attention to his predecessor.

Briefly about the model

As a base for the production of "Isuzu-Rodeo" it was decided to take a compact frame SUV known as Isuzu MU (Amigo). The novelty of the late 80's received an interesting and memorable appearance. The designers managed to emphasize the sporting character with an open-type radiator grille, a noticeable air intake in the lower part of the bumper, rectangular fog lamps and squinted daylight optics. The dynamic shape was successfully complemented by a sloping rear end and a huge glass luggage compartment door.

It should be noted that the Isuzu-Rodeo has a design that is typical for SUVs of the 90s. Then all quality crossovers had a spar frame, an independent front suspension on torsion bars and double wishbones, and a hard rear axle. And the engine was located transversely, with a basic drive to the rear wheels and the function of connecting the front axle.

What's under the hood?

The Isuzu-Rodeo model had good technical characteristics. Modifications were proposed with several engines. The weakest was the 116-liter 2.6-hp unit, which was offered only with a 5-speed "mechanics". Models with such a motor under the hood could accelerate only up to 135 km / h.

The most powerful, in turn, was a 3.5-liter 253-horsepower engine. Models with this unit were the most popular, but they were offered exclusively with a 4-speed "automatic". Machines could accelerate to 180 km / h. The motor, despite its power, had a moderate "appetite". About 100 "urban" kilometers were about 14 liters of fuel.

In addition to these engines, 9 other units were offered. And some of them were installed only under the hoods of versions of Isuzu Rodeo Sport. There were three such engines. The most powerful produced 215 "horses" with a volume of 3.2 liters. The other two were weaker, and their numbers were 131 and 136 liters. from. respectively.

Equipment

Even the basic characteristic of "Isuzu-Rodeo" (in terms of technical equipment) is impressive. Standard equipment includes such useful options as air conditioning, cruise control, CD changer, central locking, electronically controlled accelerator pedal travel. For an additional fee, you could order a leather salon.

The trunk of the 5-door models had an impressive volume of 933 liters. But still it was possible to lay down the second row, and due to this it increased to 2297 liters. By the way, it's still very convenient for developers to build a back door. It consists of two parts, one of which opens up, and the other - sideways. Restyling was decided to be held in 2002. Interior designers slightly refreshed, in the decoration used more modern materials, improved the central console, and still installed a new steering wheel and instruments from Axiom.

Controllability

The car "Isuzu-Rodeo", photo of which is given above, can be called a universal unit with confidence. He has the manners of a car that make an off-road vehicle an excellent vehicle for driving around the city and long trips. The 4-speed automatic transmission is somewhat "thoughtful", but on the track, when the last gear is switched on, its sports character is manifested, which allows successfully to overtake and easily reach high speeds.

But that is not all. The Isuzu-Rodeo has a second, typically off-road personality. The model has a high 21-cm clearance, a "non-slip" suspension, a full-drive connection function, and the ability to switch to part-time mode, which helps out if you have to move on a slippery or snowy surface.

On the merits

As the reviews on Isuzu-Rodeo SUV show, it is a reliable car that has a lot of advantages. This crossover is unpretentious. The model is very exotic for the Russian market, but if repairs are required, it is possible to use parts from Opel Frontera. At a decent level is ergonomics. The driver's seat is comfortable, there is an armrest. High fit provides maximum comfort and visibility, and all buttons, levers and switches are in place.

Still this car is comfortable. The suspension pits out any irregularities, so that the driver with the passengers feels well during the trip. Also Isuzu Rodeo is practical. In its trunk can accommodate anything. The only downside is the lack of heated seats. And it would not hurt, especially in models with leather interior. But these are trifles with which you can live.

What do motorists tell?

Finally, it is worth paying attention to the comments of the owners, which they leave on the subject of exploitation of Isuzu Rodeo. The main advantage of this machine is its dynamism. On the SUV, you can drive at maximum speed, but do not be afraid of overcharging. And on versions with "automatic" you can choose an individual style of driving due to the presence of three different modes (standard, winter and sports).

But the most important thing is that this machine is suitable for Russian conditions not only in terms of its patency on bad roads. It never fails in the frost and starts immediately, even when the thermometer's column is lowered to the limit. If we summarize, then we can say with confidence that this is an excellent, reliable and unusual SUV, since it is not so often found in our country.