Overview & Reviews

Just about every automotive manufacturer produces a sport-utility vehicle today. But back in the early 1990s, there was only a sprinkling of truck-based, off-road vehicles to whet the appetites of those trendsetters who were ahead of their time in appreciating elevated seating heights and macho styling. The Isuzu Rodeo was one of these pioneers; a midsize SUV with ample room for five passengers and a comfy ride. Compared to more rough-and-tumble models from Jeep or Chevy, the Rodeo was much easier to live with on a day-to-day basis, and it quickly became a best-selling import SUV.

For the second-generation Rodeo, Isuzu concentrated on weight reduction, noise deadening, passenger comfort and improved on-road driving dynamics that all made the Rodeo a more livable daily driver. Thanks to a generous warranty, it was initially one of our top choices in the segment, but quickly found itself outclassed by newer competitors despite some minor updates.

Although a well-maintained used Isuzu Rodeo should satisfy shoppers on a tight budget, those willing to spend a bit more would be better served by more refined SUVs such as the Nissan Pathfinder or Toyota 4Runner.

Most recent Isuzu Rodeo

The second-generation Isuzu Rodeo midsize SUV arrived in 1998 with the same basic shape of its successful predecessor. The spare tire was now attached directly to the hatch (rather than a separate swinging tire carrier), or it could be mounted under the truck for a cleaner tail end design. These two configurations also reduced weight, which was a key design goal for Isuzu's engineers. In total, 285 pounds were shaved off the Rodeo by reducing frame and engine weight, by switching to rack-and-pinion steering and by using a five-link rear suspension design.

This reduced the burden on the four- and six-cylinder engines, which despite going up in power, were hardly known for providing quick acceleration. The standard 2.2-liter inline-4 engine available on the base S model made an anemic 129 horsepower and 144 pound-feet of torque, and could only be coupled to a five-speed manual. The 3.2-liter V6 available on the S and standard on the LS and LSE produced 205 hp and 214 lb-ft and was mated to either the manual or a four-speed automatic. Rear-wheel drive was standard with four-wheel drive being optional on all trim levels, but only with the V6.

The base S model with the four-cylinder engine was essentially a stripper (though antilock brakes were standard) with only a few options like air-conditioning available. Standard and optional equipment on upper trim levels included alloy wheels, a limited-slip differential, full power accessories, cruise control, tilt steering wheel, keyless entry, moonroof, leather upholstery and a six-speaker stereo with cassette or CD player.

In 2000, the Isuzu Rodeo received more than 200 changes, including an aggressive styling refresh, updated seating and an optional Intelligent Suspension Control (ISC) system that automatically selected one of 17 shock rebound and compression rates depending on road conditions. A new Ironman LS package included sunroof, alloy wheels, ISC, special decals and a Best of Black Sabbath album (wait, that's a different Ironman). A transferable 10-year/120,000-mile powertrain warranty also became standard in 2000 and a two-door Rodeo Sport model was sold from 2001 to 2003.

When that second-generation Rodeo debuted, we considered it one of the top midsize SUVs on the market. We were particularly impressed with its quality interior, silky V6 engine and roomy backseat. After a long-term test and two years later, however, we were no longer so enamored (quite the opposite, really) and thought that in general, recently introduced SUVs were much better choices than the Rodeo.

While the V6 and ample space continued to score points, our long-termer's three breakdowns, shoddy build quality and numerous electrical gremlins were simply unacceptable and we began to view the interior plastics as increasingly cheap compared to those in the newer competition. We also complained about the vehicle's paltry gas mileage, low towing capacity and rough-riding suspension.

Past Isuzu Rodeo models

The original Isuzu Rodeo was introduced for 1991. Like its replacement, it was available with four- and six-cylinder engines and a choice of rear- or four-wheel drive. With its long wheelbase, this Rodeo offered one of the best rides and largest backseats on the market.

Initially, both the 3.1-liter V6 and 2.6-liter inline-4 made only 120 hp. The V6 made 30 more lb-ft of torque, but its upgrade to 175 hp in 1993 was certainly welcome. The four-cylinder remained unchanged. Early Rodeos were also not very safe, receiving poor crash test scores and offering almost no safety equipment. Antilock brakes were standard, but were rear-wheel only with four-wheel ABS becoming an option in 1995. That year also saw front airbags added along with a redesigned dashboard courtesy of Honda, which rebadged the Rodeo as its Passport SUV a year previously. The only other significant changes for the Rodeo occurred in 1996 when Isuzu bumped the V6 up to 190 hp, added a shift-on-the-fly four-wheel-drive system and improved the vehicle's ride quality.

User Reviews:

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  Its a Winner! - 2002 Isuzu Rodeo
  By Texasgal - September 29 - 8:06 pm

  When I bought my rodeo, it already had 100,000 miles on it. I am at 168,000 now and driving strong. No problems at all except had to replace tires and alternator. And I have crack in the radiator. But other than that, it is very dependable and handles well, especially on dirt, hilly roads. I just wish it got better gas mileage, only get about 260 miles per tank now. Use to get almost 300 when I first bought it.

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  A Very Happy New/Used Owner - 2002 Isuzu Rodeo
  By VAV - September 26 - 10:00 am

  I shopped for over six months, just looking and test-driving various SUVs, in all price ranges. My daughter and I really enjoy this classy and responsive vehicle. Go ahead and buy one. Youll be pleased.

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  What a great SUV - 1999 Isuzu Rodeo
  By gabbyu - September 24 - 6:36 pm

  Since I bought this truck in May of 2007 with 182,000 on it, I never had a problem except changing the oxygen sensor which the truck had when I bought it. It has remained very reliable ever since. One complaint though is that the front seats are not that comfortable on a long trip. Will still get another one to keep since they dont make them any longer. A real bargain for a used SUV. Buy one and you will be happy.

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  Good Vehicle for the Money - 1999 Isuzu Rodeo
  By AggiePride! - September 19 - 6:43 pm

  I have owned my 1999 Rodeo LS 4WD Auto since July 1999. The vehicle currently has 112,800 miles. The vehicle has been through several service bulletins (all covered by manufacturer), but no major mechanical problems. Still using the original engine, transmission, rotors, A/C, heating, power windows, fog lights, suspension. The shocks will get replaced soon. The fuel gauge/fuel sending unit needs replacing ($300). Overall a great vehicle. I have done all of the servicing at the dealership, and they have done a great job maintaining the vehicle. When buying a Rodeo, remember that it is not a car based SUY. It is built from a TRUCK and rides like a truck. Thus, the vehicle is very durable.

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  Powerful, yet gas and money hungry - 2001 Isuzu Rodeo
  By ENK - September 18 - 2:00 am

  I have enjoyed driving this car. It has lots of pickup. Took it on a trip through Tennessee and never hesitated once in the hills.

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  All the same problems - 1999 Isuzu Rodeo
  By harveyjc_2001 - September 12 - 10:00 am

  Same aforementioned problems: 1)Erratic idle -- vehile lurches forward randomly. 2)Minor tap on bumper (airbag did not deploy) and it shattered into 1000 pieces 3)Fuel Sensor died at about 50K miles, dealer refused to fix under warranty 4)ABS light is on. Not sure what the problem is yet -- theyre looking at it now. 5)Major problem with wheel bearings. Entire rear end replaced under warranty. This one was so catastrophic they couldnt ignore it! If you live in MA, do not buy from 128 Isuzu. Service is horrible.

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  Like a Timex, takes a licking... - 1999 Isuzu Rodeo
  By powderbud - August 12 - 4:35 pm

  I bought my 99 Rodeo in 2000 with exactly 30k miles on it. I am now at almost 350k miles. This is my 2nd Rodeo. At 100k miles, I had to replace the clutch for $1100. That is probably my biggest complaint about the Rodeo. GM built the engine, and clearly they wanted to insure repair costs were ridiculously high. Even to change the thermostat requires removing the manifold pushing the cost at a shop to over $150. On most cars, replacing an $7 thermostat takes all of 5 min and a screwdriver. I also had the rear diff assy replaced at about 150k miles. Bought one used for $500, been fine ever since. My Rodey blows 4Runners, etc away going up I-70 to the mountains every weekend.

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  You get what you pay for - 2000 Isuzu Rodeo
  By JenniferD - August 9 - 10:00 am

  Until November 2003, I loved my Rodeo. It ran like a dream, with just minor irritations. Upon taking it in for a regular oil change, the dealership informed me that at 38000 miles, the entire engine needed to be replaced. They admitted that it was caused by a flaw in the design. At 50K, it was towed in for an electrical short that made the car completely stop on a busy road. The dealership made the problem worse. Now, electrical problems cause cruise control to turn on randomly. The dealership will not support me, Isuzu Corporate will not support me. Time for a trade-in.

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  Think before buying! - 1999 Isuzu Rodeo
  By John K. - July 31 - 10:00 am

  Run, dont walk, away from any Isuzu Rodeo! Just a "few" of the repairs Ive had to make... new engine new catalytic converters new fuel pump new ABS module new ABC wiring harness leaking washer fluid new rear light socket new knock sensor new PCM Oh, and dont forget the numerous recalls. Stay tuned in is now in the shop...

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  cheap power - 2001 Isuzu Rodeo
  By dollar - July 20 - 10:00 am

  Have had my RODEO for two years and am very suprised of how fast it has depreciated, I guess I got what I paid for. The interior of the truck just screams out cheap. When you feel and see the thin plastic material that ISUZU used for the dash and other parts. I have not had any major problems, exept I had to change my rear break shoes within 40,000 miles. Good power for small truck. Air conditiong seems to take forever to kick in. You will find yourself like a bobble-head when the road gets bumpy. Sleeping policemen (speed bumps)seem to be a little too much for this truck. If you dont mind cheap interior, rough ride, poor mpg, then this truck is for you.