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ROUND AN ISUZU
Page 59
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There was a time when isuzu's Rodeo could do no wrong. But with a succession of rivals entering the market, it has its work cut out.
When the lsuzu Rodeo debuted in 2003, it managed to upset the pickup establishment-Mitsubishi, 1
Toyota and Nissan with an impressive chassis and sound driveability.But the established manufacturers now have newer products on the market, and they're all pretty impressive. The updated Rodeo has plenty riding on it.
The most significant development is the 2.5lure common-rail turbo-diesel that supersedes the 3.0-litre engine.Altho ugh down in capacity, it produces 6hp/14Nm more to offer 135hp/294Nni.There is also a revised fivespeed manual box and a minor facelift to keep the whole package up to date. Underneath, the selectable 2/4WD system features a shift-onthe-fly function operated by a dash-mounted switchthough low ratio selection requires the vehicle to be stationary.
Joining the two existing models Rodeo and the up-specced Rodeo Denver Max-is the Denver Max LE. Available later in the year,
it boasts a Prodrive performance pack which boosts power to 158hp and features 18in alloys, branded hard top and Blue tooth technology.
All Rodeos come with ABS with EBD, two air bags, air-con, electric windows, keyless entry, CD player and leather steering wheel. Service intervals are a competitive 12,000 miles.
Prices start at £13,990 for the basic Rodeo -impressive compared with our current favourite, the Nissan Navara,which is1.17K in double-cab SE guise. At the top of the tree you'll pay 19,990 for the bells-and-whistles LE Revisiting this machine showed no significant changes in the way it drives compared with the previous 3.0-litre version, but that's no bad thing.The new engine offers a decent spread of torque from low revs, whicl allows hill climbing without having to stress the engine.There is also plenty of traction when ploughing on through the dirt and the suspension is compliant enough to tackle severe rough stuff without complaint.
Out on the road, where the Rodeo had previously seemed at its best, the new model remains composed and assured.The steering is well weighted and precise, and it cruises confidently at speed.
However it remains to be seen whether it does enough to keep up with the competition in terms of chassis dynamics a