Isuzu Vehicross

Rodeo 2011 Picture Collection

Best SUVs — Tue, 08 May 2012 09:47:56 +0000

The 2011 edition of Rodeo is a 5 passenger SUV, which is marketed in 4 trim variants. The entry level model is S, which comes in 2WD configuration and the range topping 3.5L S comes powered by a 3.5liter engine and is marketed in all wheel drive configuration.

The 2011 edition of the vehicle is responsive and manages great handling. This compact SUV is a fun to drive off road campaigner.

The 2011 edition of Rodeo sees its rivals in the form of Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander, and Chevrolet TrailBlazer.

The entry level S, which comes in 2WD configuration is powered by a 3.2liter V6 engine, which generates 205hp. It returns 17mpg on city roads and 21mpg on highway.

Check out the cool pictures collection of 2011 Isuzu Rodeo below.

2011 Rodeo Exterior	2011 Rodeo Interior	2011 Rodeo Outlook

GM Remains Tight Lipped on Isuzu Deal

Best SUVs — Thu, 03 May 2012 08:32:54 +0000

GM continues to remain tight-lipped about its deal with the Japanese automaker. As reports suggest, there is an ongoing negotiation between Isuzu Motors and GM, where GM intends to acquire 10% stakes in the Japanese company.

Along with Reuters, few other major publications have also mentioned that together these two firms will work mainly on commercial vehicles that will be marketed in Central America, South America, and Asia. Both the companies are expected to ink the deal sometime in summer.

GM has held stakes in Isuzu since the year 1971. In 2006, the American automaker sold 7.9% of its stakes in Isuzu to raise around $300 million as the company was in great financial crisis, but it continued to have a partnership with the Japanese company for manufacturing diesel engines and trucks.

The joint venture between the companies is called as DMAX Ltd. and it is located in Moraine, Ohio. At this facility, the companies manufacture big diesel power-plants for big heavy duty trucks and large size utility vans. This partnership was started in 1998 and GM has a total of 60% stakes in the joint venture.

Isuzu Motors officials were also not available to comment on the probable agreement.

News Source: DetroitNews

Ascender SUV Pics

Best SUVs — Thu, 26 Apr 2012 11:38:34 +0000

Ascender SUV was released back in 2003 and its final production model was released in 2008. The 7 passenger SUV did have its share of stardom when it was launched but for some reason lost its flair down the line.

To make things worse, Isuzu had to leave American market, which most probably led to the decline of the vehicle.

The SUV was all about generous interior space both for driver and passengers, not to mention the cargo space was also the best in the segment.

The highway ride quality was also one of the finest but we guess apart from these features the vehicle did not have anything more to boast of.

Check out the picture gallery of Isuzu Ascender presented below.

Ascender Exterior	Ascender Interior	Ascender Outlook

Company Acquires 11 percent in SML Isuzu for INR 60Cr

Best SUVs — Tue, 17 Apr 2012 13:28:13 +0000

Sumitomo Corporation sold 11 percent of stake in SML Isuzu to Isuzu Motors for almost R60Cr. Based on the reports, Sumitomo Corporation has transferred equity shares of around 15, 91,881, representing 11 percent stake in Isuzu motors.

After the transaction, holding of Sumitomo Corp’s in the firm has fallen to 43.96 percent from 54.96percent. You can see the Isuzu Motors’ holding has risen to 15 percent.

SML Isuzu Limited was incorporated in the year 1983 and was initially set up under Swaraj Vehicles Limited for manufacturing LCVs.

Company was also promoted by Punjab Tractors Limited in financial and technical collaboration with the Mazda Motor Corp, Sumitomo and Japan Corporation.

The agreement associated to the technical collaboration with Mazda was expired in the year 2004 and company exited by selling all the stakes to Sumitomo Corporation.

At that point of time, SML was completely into the technical collaboration agreement with the Isuzu Japan. SML also operates in Medium Commercial and LCV vehicle segments associated to the automobile industry.

Company has got the manufacturing facility in Punjab with a capacity of manufacturing almost 18,000 vehicles and also has product portfolio that includes trucks, buses, water tanks, and ambulances.

Source : Isuzu Vehicross was sold in three variants- S, XS, and LS. As for the 1990 Trooper, all the variants were rolled out in 4WD configuration. While the entry level S was powered by a 2.6liter 4-cylinder engine, the other two variants were equipped with 2.8liter V6 engine. The 4-cylinder engine generated 120 hp @ 5000 rpm and torque of 146 ft-lbs. @ 2600 rpm, while the more powerful V6 churned out 120 hp @ 4800 rpm and torque of 150 ft-lbs. @ 3600 rpm.

Reasons Why You Might Like It?

The off road capabilities of this beast are simply unmatched; it runs wild on the toughest of terrains and has all the sportiness that you would expect from an off-road performer.

The top class build quality assures safety even in the event of a crash. You can call it an out and out fearless campaigner that not only makes your jungle trips all the more fun but is also capable of giving a refined ride cruising all the way to your far off holiday home.

The simple controls that are extremely easy to work with make things even more fun. The turning radius is big but not big enough to turn you off. It does not gulp down as much fuel as some of its contemporaries. Inside the cabin, you get more than needed leg room, shoulder room, and head room.

Why You Might Reject It…

Keeping long distance traveling and off road trips in mind, the only thing that 1990 Trooper truly lacks is a top class suspension system. So, if you are planning to buy one, do make use of the saved money in beefing up the suspension of the vehicle.

You can expect the pricing of a 1990 Isuzu Trooper to fall somewhere in the range of $600 to $750, making it a really cheap option, and great for vintage lovers.

Rodeo Sport: The Compact SUV from Isuzu

Best SUVs — Thu, 05 Apr 2012 08:55:00 +0000

Rodeo Sport, the compact sports utility vehicle from Isuzu, was once known as Amigo. It is basically a shortened edition of the Rodeo 4-door wagon. It can be seen as a 2-door hardtop version or a convertible.

Introduction

This compact SUV was introduced with the name as Rodeo Sport in 2000 as 2001 model. Thereafter two versions were seen (2002 and 2003 models) post which production was stopped in 2004.

Names in Different Countries

The shortened wheelbase version was traded as Isuzu MU in Japan and the name Amigo was used in United States until it was changed over to Isuzu Rodeo Sport. This new version was known as Opel Frontera Sport throughout continental Europe, while Vauxhall Frontera Sport name was used in UK and Holden Frontera Sport in Australia.

Different Version of Rodeo Sport

Here’s a brief note on the different versions that were offered:

2001 Rodeo Sport

For 2001, Isuzu dropped out the Amigo nameplate and re-nominated the 2-door SUV as Rodeo Sport. There were a wide range of options to choose from- 2WD or 4WD, soft top or hard top, 4-cylinder or 6-cylinder, and automatic or manual transmission.

It was offered in base S and S V6 models- the base model came equipped with a 2.2-liter 4-cylinder DOHC engine that delivered 130 hp power, and 144 pf torque, while the higher-end trim was powered by a 3.2 liter V6 engine (the same that was seen in the 4-door Rodeo sibling), good for 205 hp power, and 214 pf torque.

Though it seemed to be charming, it lagged behind in terms of unrefined cramped interior, excessive engine noise, and poor handling dynamics. It stood up for its standard ABS, sporty styling, and the powerful V6 engine choice.

2002 Rodeo Sport

Rodeo Sport returned unchanged for 2002 except for the addition of new 16 inch wheels. If you are out in the marked for a used Rodeo Sport, it is definitely an affordable choice with a sporty personality and decent off-road abilities. The possibility of open-top could make it even more exciting- this could be the vehicle for your needs!

2003 Rodeo Sport

For 2003, it did not undergo any significant changes. The achieved mileage ratings remained at 18 mpg in the city limits and 22 mpg on the highway streets, which was average in the segment. The attractive design and its youthful appeal were the main selling points of this SUV. This version scored poor ratings in the frontal offset crash tests.

Buying Advice

There are chances that fun-loving SUV enthusiasts could overlook the drawbacks of Isuzu Rodeo Sport and opt for it. The 4WD models prove to be a practical alternative to people who desired for the off-road ability of Wrangler. We would recommend you to take a look at few of the other SUVs in the market before settling on this one so that you won’t repent later.

Axiom SUV Overview

Best SUVs — Wed, 28 Mar 2012 11:11:47 +0000

Axiom made its debut in 2002 and soon after that in 2004 we saw the final production model of the SUV. Isuzu rolled out the vehicle to offer something that promised to be a perfect blend of elegance and ruggedness; of course did not quite go the way it was planned. Let us take a brief look at the various Isuzu Axiom year models.

2002 Axiom

In its debut year, the SUV was marketed either as base or XS variant. Both the variants were powered by a 3.5liter V6 engine and boasted of retuned TOD technology. To top it all, there was something called as Integrated Monitor System, which helped in controlling music and climate controls. A dedicated trip computer was also equipped, which was synchronized with U.S. clock. The V6 engine churned out 230 hp @ 5400 rpm and 230 ft-lbs. @ 3000 rpm of torque.

2003 Axiom

There were hardly any changes seen in 2003 edition of the sport utility vehicle. Both the variants offered 14 mpg on city roads and 19 mpg on highways compared to their 2002 counterparts that returned 14 mpg/19 mpg on city/highway. A used 2003 Isuzu Axiom can be bought for around $4,500.

2004 Axiom

In its final production year, the vehicle became more powerful, thanks to the inclusion of direct injection technology, which helped in improving torque and power. XS also received new stylish but optional alloys and all the variants received new chrome finish at the front grille. A used 2004 edition can be bought for around $6,500.

The Muscular Crosswind SUV for 2012

Best SUVs — Tue, 20 Mar 2012 11:30:27 +0000

2012 Crosswind is currently one of the best mid sized Japanese SUVs in the offering. It is a perfect combination of space, identity, and comfort. The vehicle is offered both with manual and automatic transmission system and is marketed in three trims- XTi, XT, and ML. Let us know a bit more about the latest 2012 Isuzu Crosswind.

The Exterior

On the outside, we see very imposing halogen projector type headlights. The completely embossed grille with chrome finish makes the overall look even more stylish. The built-in reflector in the sporty rear bumper is also a welcome add-on. The tail pipe finisher has a unique oval design to it.

Engine Performance

The SUV comes powered by a 2.4liter diesel power-plant, which is engineered for better torque, more power, and better fuel economy. The engine is also properly tuned to inject the right amount of diesel at the right time for optimum performance and minimum emissions. It churns out 85PS @ 3,900rpm and 18.9 Kg-m @ 2,000 rpm of torque.

Safety and Comfort Amenities

The SUV is properly equipped with features that promise safe as well as comfortable journey. The on board passengers get sufficient bugger against any kind of impact and there is sufficient protection for children as well. Features like seat belt for both the rows, alarm system, back up camera, and sensor make sure you have a safe ride without any hiccups.

For comfort, you get features like keyless entry, power door locks, power windows, and steering.

2012 Isuzu Crosswind is one good contender in the mid size SUV segment and we hope to see it run wild on US soils someday.

Bighorn Picture Collection

Best SUVs — Wed, 14 Mar 2012 10:41:44 +0000

Bighorn debuted back in 1983 and its final model year was seen in 2002. From ’83 to ’91 the vehicle was in its first generation and after that till ’02 it was in its second generation.

The vehicle was sold as both Isuzu Bighorn and Subaru Bighorn in Japan, while in US and Europe it was marketed as Isuzu Trooper.

The first generation models had a wide range of engine choices varying from a modest 2.0liter engine to 2.8liter turbo diesel engine.

The second generation Bighorns were even more powerful as the entry level engine was a 2.6liter while the high end engine was a big 3.1liter turbo diesel engine.

Take a look at some of the interesting pictures of Isuzu Bighorn.

Bighorn Exterior	Bighorn Interior	Bighorn Outlook

Company Introduced its ‘I-Vision’

Best SUVs — Tue, 13 Mar 2012 10:37:45 +0000

On its return to the commercial vehicle show this year, the leading CV brand, Isuzu is releasing a new service for the UK customers with the launch of ‘I-Vision’.

This newly designed subsidiary within the organization will be providing UK operators a full range of vehicle Telematics, same as Japan’s Mimamori system.

The new system can be fitted to mixed marquee with already existing or new vehicles. According to Keith Child, MD at Isuzu Truck, the latest developments are designed purely for commercial vehicles and the new service division gets comprehensive suite of latest information solutions. Plus, the vehicles get 3-year/unlimited mileage warranty.