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:

• 

  Reliable but VERY ROUGH RIDING - 1999 Isuzu Rodeo
  By Bethlehem - PA - December 18 - 12:50 pm

  Purchased car used. Engine is very reliable over the years. Major problem with the axle (breather tube) over heats. Replaced twice. Isuzu was aware of these problems with their car. With exception of axle problems, just normal wear and tear maintenance performed over the years. Mileage never reach potential as I would only get 14 to 20 miles/gal.

• 

  Another Sucker - 2001 Isuzu Rodeo
  By DMS1011 - December 11 - 2:00 am

  Ok, I purchased a 2001 Iszuzu for my wife to drive. As others have mentioned the depreciation is AMAZING - Thankful I am in a lease. Now my issue, the lease is up in 30 days and I have not recieved a single call or notice from Iszuzu reguarding lease turn-in. Go to a dealer and they refuse the vehicle. Like many of the other comments listed here, cheap interior, lots of power with the V6 - simply said - its a box on wheels and you get less than what you pay for with other manufactures.

• 

  Izusus best years... - 2000 Isuzu Rodeo
  By jays cars - December 7 - 10:40 am

  Our family has owned our Rodeo since new and as of 01/2010 it has 81400 miles and the only thing we had done was the fuel pump had to be replaced in 07 (under warranty), but it has outlasted all our cars and trucks. I love that its soo strong and reliable, Im not sure if i will ever find a vehicle like it again or if they even make them anymore. I think the 1999- 2009 Isuzu our one of the best SUV made. So wish i could find a used one at the right price, would buy it in a minute.

• 

  Solid Truck - 2002 Isuzu Rodeo
  By Jeffk - December 4 - 10:00 am

  Good solid truck. Interior features a little hoakie. No climate control option. No Mechanical issues.

• 

  2000 Rodeo - 2000 Isuzu Rodeo
  By timmy - November 30 - 10:00 am

  This vehicle looses about one quart of oil every 500-1000 miles and all the mechanics Ive talked to say this is normal. So if you dont feel like counting miles to change oil, this is not the car for you.

• 

  My Twitch - 2003 Isuzu Rodeo
  By sidless - November 29 - 7:46 pm

  My girlfriend bought the Rodeo since we wanted something that would haul a pop up camper and also offered covered storage for all our stuff. Twitch has been a great little ride. The Bridgestones are a bit loud, but nothing that turning up the radio wont cure. Had to replace rotors and brakes at 51K; put powerslots and ceramic pads on her and now shell stop on a dime! The shocks wore out quickly in the rear, so I replaced F/R shocks with Bilsteins and now all is well. Good acceleration, and 22mpg average gas mileage. Seats are comfortable for short hauls but a little uncomfortable on long trips. Overall, we love our little Twitch!

• 

  I Love this SUV - 2003 Isuzu Rodeo
  By jenwind - November 21 - 2:00 am

  I just bought my Roadeo last weekend, and I love it. It drives smoothly, and comfortably. The stereo system is great. It is very comfortable on the inside. Overall it is a great vehicle. I looked at a lot of other SUVs and for the money this was the best that I could find. It comes standard with a lot of great ammenties, that others charge for!

• 

  Outstanding SUV - 2003 Isuzu Rodeo
  By Art - November 1 - 5:20 pm

  Excellent SUV - 100K miles, and still going strong. A little shy on leg room for a tall person, but otherwise comfortable. Very reliable, have had a couple of problems getting the starter to engage in hot weather - dealer not able to fix. mileage is about 18.5 on hwy, could be better. However, other traits make up for this. Very good in snow and ice. Highly recommended.

• 

  Gas in city - 2003 Isuzu Rodeo
  By Me - November 1 - 12:40 pm

  The only operational problem I have had with this vehicle is the transmission. It was covered under warranty since it was only three months old. I believe since then Isuzu has corrected the transmission problems on other 2003 models.

• 

  98 Izuzu Rodeo - 1998 Isuzu Rodeo
  By SharkyTheKid - October 28 - 10:00 am

  I had a 94 rodeo prior to purchasing this vehicle used in 99. The 94 rodeo had a few mechanical problems and rode somewhat rough. The 98 rodeo has been a very good vehicle, virtually no problems. It rides fairly good for a truck/suv, and has been on many long distance trips (1000+ miles per trip).