Isuzu Rodeo

Distinct from the regular sports vehicles that we see on the roads every day, the Isuzu Rodeo was a truck based utility vehicle mostly meant for off road activities. It attracted those who preferred high seats and sturdy machines to drive. This vehicle had a seating capacity for 5 and the arrangement was such that they could relax over long hauls with ample leg space and back rest. Technically, it was stronger than its competition and hence a much better ride, the reason due to which it soon became the number one selling SUV.

With time, as the newer versions of the Rodeo were launched, more emphasis was paid to making it compatible to the city roads by reducing the noise levels and making it lighter. However, with time, it got phased out by the next generation cars which were rolled out by companies like Toyota and Nissan despite its high warranty periods chiefly because the others were cheaper and gave the same performance levels much to the interest of all buyers. Even though out of production, one may still see several of these classic Isuzu Rodeos on the roads.

The newer generation was launched in the year 1998 with the hope of recapturing the industry as it had earlier. However, the new model could not make much difference because of the lack of serious changes. The shape remained the same with only the location of the spare tire changing. This change lead to a weight reduction of approximately 300 pounds which was the only thing major thing this model was riding on. The engines were still the same and some basic changes in air conditioning or remote entry etc. were not of much help as they were nothing new or distinct from the competition.

Which can be called one of the rare occurrences, Isuzu came out with a third generation Rodeo in the year 2000. Here, they really took to changing the way it performed and functioned. There were more than 200 changes incorporated on the unit. It became a major hit once again with the masses but the glory lasted only till the end of 2003. What was found to be good in terms of state of art interiors, a great V6 engine and not to forget the exclusive transferable 10 yr warranty soon became cheap quality plastics and lesser towing capabilities. Since the warranty aspect was adopted by all, it again did not remain exclusive.

Isuzu Rodeo has seen hard as well as good times. This make remained in the market from 1991 to 2003, a 12 year period which is very impressive on its own. It was this vehicle that bought about some major changes in the auto industry and regulated the way the trucking industry met their needs. With collaborations with various companies, it was able to introduce safety features like airbags and antilock brakes much to the benefit of the person sitting behind the wheels. The quality always kept improving which was why it was able to stay in the market for so long.