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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  Great Vehicle for the Money - 2002 Isuzu Rodeo
  By BSCox - October 28 - 10:00 am

  I previously owened a 2001 Rodeo Sport and got fed up with the rattles and uncomfortable seating. Finally invested in the LS full-size model. I absolutely love it. The styling of the interior and exterior are very eye- catching and sophisicated. Smooth ride, with no rattles. I should have bought this last year. The "LS" makes a huge difference in comfort.

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  Love this SUV! - 1999 Isuzu Rodeo
  By Baluroses - October 27 - 12:13 pm

  I love this SUV. I have previously owned a few others and this would be my favorite of the lot. Its perfect for my life style and *knock on wood* the only issue I have had so far has been with the clutch. It has been very reliable and a good all around vehicle to drive for the past few years.

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  Problems to come - 1999 Isuzu Rodeo
  By lisa nichols - October 24 - 10:00 am

  No problems for 2 1/2yrs. In the last six months the fuel gauge has broke, excessive oil burning, shuddering when changing gears, musty air conditioner, rattling back window, bumpy shocks, back speaker broke, seems to be getting louder everyday. I have not had to replace or pay for anything outside of regular maintenance, except recalled items(under warranty). It was great while it lasted but I believe theirs problems coming. Time To Trade at 80,000.

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  Great Vehicle - So So Company - 2001 Isuzu Rodeo
  By 2001 Isuzu Rodeo LS - October 22 - 6:00 pm

  I purchased the 2001 Isuzu Rodeo LS new in Oct 01. I have had some issues, but nothing too bad. 3150 - Front Axle Shift Motor. 14800 - Left Front ABS Sensor. 65000 - Rear Wiper Motor. 80000 - Fuel Tank Sending Unit. 87000 - #5 Cylinder Gaskets. 95000 - Right Front ABS Sensor. 98600 - Idler pulley 99000 - Cooling fan gear. I have done all the major maintenance, diff fluid changes, bearings packed, timing belt, etc. I regret having a vehicle that is in warranty, but there is no dealership nearby. Isuzu has been TERRIBLE to deal with with on the Fuel sending unit. They were rude, unrealistic, and changed their story... I would not buy another Izuzu due to that only.

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  Isuzu Rodeo rating - 2004 Isuzu Rodeo
  By Raymie - October 19 - 10:00 am

  As a 2nd geneartion buyer of Isuzu, I am very satisfied with this vehicle. Isuzus are low maintenance and I will buy a 3rd one. Other well known companies use Isuzu trucks and market them as their own. The Chevrolet Trailblazer is the Isuzu Ascender. The Honda Passport is the Isuzu Rodeo. This should tell the sceptics something about the quality.

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  Take out a 2nd mortgage on your home! - 1999 Isuzu Rodeo
  By Robyn&Chris - October 5 - 10:00 am

  $1,200 THIS MONTH in repairs not incl $320 to replace fuel gasket they claim needs to be replaced. Gets more expensive the higher your mileage. Nothing falls under warranty; customer svc non-existent. Once vehicle hits 50,000 miles, get out your checkbook. Check engine light on, transmission jerking, erratic/rough shifting. In shop 4 days, no loan car. $300 that trip. Engine light on again in 2 days, another $400 & 2 days in shop. This time svc dept had to call Isuzu to figure out all the error codes. 2 days later car wont start; $520 for alternator! Ridiculous parts prices. Bought new in 99 with ext.warranty; runs like a 20-yr old clunker.

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  My 2001 Rodeo - 2001 Isuzu Rodeo
  By alex - September 22 - 6:00 pm

  My second Isuzu, the first being a 1985 Trooper, which I loved. My present 2001 Rodeo, with 39,000 miles has been 100% reliable. In fact, its 6 cylinder engine is absolutely dry, no oil seeps or leaks. I have never owned a vehicle with a dry engine after almost 40,000 miles. I have driven cross country twice and both were good trips. I also drive motorcycles and that is why my mileage is low. I have maintained the vehicle properly and plan to keep it until one of us dies. The 120,000 mile drive train warranty was the first high mileage warranty offered in the USA.

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  Get the Trooper - 2002 Isuzu Rodeo
  By rlfuzz - September 20 - 2:00 am

  I traded a completely reliable 1994 Trooper for a 1999 LS 4WD Rodeo. BIG Mistake. This thing has a problem every other month. Brakes, ABS Unit, Transmission, more squeaks and rattles than a covered wagon. I will be happy to give it back to Isuzu when my lease is up. I hate that the Trooper replacement is on a GM platform!

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  Still solid - 2001 Isuzu Rodeo
  By Green Giant - September 12 - 10:00 am

  Overall a solid vehicle. At 55k miles, its tighter than friends explorers, trailblazers etc. Had an early problem with the front right wheelbearing loosening up but they replaced it. My rodeo has been tight as can be. No squeeks or rattles, engine is clean. 52K I had the brakes and undercarriage loked at. 60% wear left on rear brakes, 50% left up front. No rust, no leaks, exhaust is fine. For the money its a great value. Still one of the best looking mid sized SUVs out there. Paint is great, body hardware has been great. Not the smoothest ride, but not bad.

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  Buy a Nissan Pathfinder - 1999 Isuzu Rodeo
  By unhappyrodeoowner - August 28 - 2:00 am

  I have had problems with this truck...hard to align...the ABS senor had to be replaced...the suspension is too bouncy...gas mileage ranges between 16 to 18 mpg