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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  had alot of suvs this ones been best - 2000 Isuzu Rodeo
  By chipface - December 22 - 10:00 am

  Bought new after my 99 durango was totaled. Never had it back to dealer for anything. Oil changes and a new battery have been it. No squeaks, rattles nothing. Very smooth power, added a flowmaster muffler and k&n filter, no problems. Gas mileage is typical, even better then most. Durango was 11 at best mpg. Ford explorer 4.o was at 14. Isuzu is at 16-19 mpg. Depreciation is only setback. Shouldnt be considering they built the rodeo for honda as a passport. Best vehicle Ivve owned for no problems in 20 years.

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  Not a reliable car in the long run - 2002 Isuzu Rodeo
  By devon - December 14 - 10:40 am

  I bought this car used and it was great, I loved it and everything was fine... and then it hit the 60,000 mile mark. EVERYTHING fell apart on the car. Head gasket, fuel pump, transmission, EVP, everything went on the car. The same thing happened to a family member with the same model of car. If you have one, get rid of it before the mileage gets too high or youll end up with a couple thousand dollars worth of repairs. Even following the scheduled maintenance, and regular oil changes the car doesnt hold up.

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  Great for the Money - 2004 Isuzu Rodeo
  By Craig - December 13 - 2:43 pm

  Ive had my Rodeo for about 3 months. No problems at all. It has the Direct Injection, 250-Hp V-6 engine, and it will definitely move. I was astounded by the performance of this engine - especiallly when compared to the [Rodeo} standard V-6. No contest whatsoever. If you get one of these, get the Direct Injection. You wont regret it.

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  Think Twice - 1999 Isuzu Rodeo
  By Airell Jacoby - December 10 - 11:26 am

  Bought used in 3/05 & had problems right away. Fuel gauge broken, ABS light always on, rear lights all messed up, & hard down-shifting. All were fixed at the dealerships expense at the tune of $800.00! I have replaced rear wiring harnesses & sway bar links for $300.00. Was told by great garage of unusual 1/2-inch sludge on transmission magnet ... very bad sign of huge transmission problem. This was discovered while in the shop for a new solenoid. Seems like problem after problem. Shame, because its a roomy, fast ride. Seats are hard and the spare squeaks all the way down the road on the back tailgate. Would not recommend. Not worth the money or hassles.

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  best bet - 1998 Isuzu Rodeo
  By rowddy - December 8 - 10:00 am

  biggest repair was oil change in 82000 miles. runs great, will run at sustained speed over 100 all day long. would never consider another as a replacement. runs as good in 4WD as ford does in 2 WD

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  LOVE MY RODEO - 1998 Isuzu Rodeo
  By RICK-RICK - December 7 - 2:00 am

  We bought our Rodeo as a third vehicle for our growing family. Although the Rodeo does not have as much room as our minivan its much sportier, handles better and the overall experience we enjoy with it is satisfying. I use to sell Rodeos a few years ago and felt great everytime I went on a test drive with its new owner. Our Rodeo has 68000 miles on it and the only problem I could begin to discuss is the paint issue. The overall rating more than makes up for the paint issue in my mind. Highly recommended by my family.

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  Excellent for the price - 2004 Isuzu Rodeo
  By Kevin James - December 3 - 2:00 am

  I just bought my Rodeo and I love it so far. It has great power and handles like a champ!! The six disc changer is very cool and volume audio controlls are similar to the cherokee laredo.

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  Excellent SUV Choice - 2004 Isuzu Rodeo
  By Kori - December 3 - 2:00 am

  Ive never owned an SUV before and I love the Rodeo. It rides great and I love the design of it. Now that Im in it I cant imagine myself in anything else. Thanks to Isuzu and Champion Isuzu Houston.

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  Buyer Beware - 2002 Isuzu Rodeo
  By Buyerbeware - December 3 - 2:00 am

  Ive had my Rodeo in the shop a dozen times. The drive shaft and airbag had to be repaired 4 times each. It had begun to rattle and squeak badly. This, by the way, is not a warranty item after a year the dealer tells me. Unfortunatly, what started out as a great bargain has turned out to be a bad deal on my part. No wonder Isuzus sales slipped over 40% last year.badly. Which, by the way, is not a warranty item after a year the dealer tells me. Unfortunalty, what started out as a great bargain has turned out to be a bad deal on my part. No wonder Isuzus sales slipped over 40% last year.

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  Good Experience - 2001 Isuzu Rodeo
  By James - November 22 - 7:13 am

  Only problem we experienced with this car was an EGR valve. Other than that, its been an nice reliable SUV that has permitted fun excursions that would not otherwise be available from a smaller car.