Isuzu Rodeo UTS-145 2.2 i L 2WD (130 Hp)


Overall Rating

7.4 / 10
Safety N/A / 5
Not Rated
Engine 3.8 / 5
Value 4.0 / 5
Performance 3.5 / 5
Comfort 3.0 / 5
People\'s Opinion N/A / 5
Not Rated

Isuzu Rodeo:

The Isuzu Rodeo is an automotive nameplate that was used by the Japanese automobile manufacturer Isuzu between 1988 and 2004. Isuzu has utilized the "Rodeo" name on two different vehicles—a compact pickup truck sold in Japan, and a midsize SUV offered in North America.
Prior to its establishment as a stand-alone model, the "Rodeo" title had previously suffixed four-wheel drive versions of the Japanese market Isuzu Faster pickup from 1978. These vehicles, titled "Isuzu Faster Rodeo" spanned two generations. It was not until the third iteration, offered between 1988 and 1994, that the firm simplified the name of four-wheel drive models to "Isuzu Rodeo". Moreover, in Japan from 1981, the name "Isuzu Bighorn Rodeo" was used on the SUV that Isuzu shortly abbreviated to "Isuzu Bighorn"—known as the "Isuzu Trooper" in most international markets....(Read more on Wikipedia)

UTS-145 Overview:

Isuzu Rodeo (UTS-145). With 195 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. It has moderate fuel consumption (~11.2 l/100km). With a weight of 1585 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. A sport utility vehicle offering higher ground clearance and versatile cargo space. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.

Safety Rating
Not rated
Euro NCAP Year N/A
Adult Occupant N/A
Stars N/A
Expert Note:
The Isuzu Rodeo UTS-145 generation was not tested by Euro NCAP. Safety features are typical for an SUV of its era, primarily focusing on structural integrity rather than advanced driver-assistance systems.

2.2 i L 2WD (130 Hp) Verdict:

Rating 3 stars

Performance Verdict

The 2.2L four-cylinder engine is significantly underpowered for an SUV of the Rodeo's size and weight. It struggles with acceleration, especially on highways or when fully loaded, making it best suited for light duties.

Fuel Economy

While offering better fuel economy than the V6, it's still not particularly impressive for its power output. The engine often needs to be worked hard, which can negate some of its efficiency benefits.

Best Use Case: City / Light Utility

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Robust and durable V6 engine (6VD1-W)
  • • Good towing capacity (V6 models)
  • • Spacious interior and cargo volume
  • • Capable off-road performance (4WD models)
  • • Strong value on the used market
  • • Durable body-on-frame construction

Cons:

  • • Poor fuel economy, especially with V6 engines
  • • Dated interior design and features
  • • Rough ride quality typical of older SUVs
  • • Underpowered 2.2L four-cylinder engine
  • • Limited advanced safety features
  • • Some parts can be harder to find for older models

Specifications:

Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(Rodeo: 1995 - 1998).

General:
Brand:Isuzu
Model:Rodeo
Generation:UTS-145
Modification (Engine):2.2 i L 2WD (130 Hp)
Start of production:1998
End of production:2004
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:SUV
Seats:5
Doors:5
Engine:
Power:130 Hp @ 5200 rpm.
Power per litre:59.1 Hp/l
Torque:195 Nm @ 4000 rpm.
Engine displacement:2198
Number of cylinders:4
Engine configuration:Inline
Number of valves per cylinder:2
Fuel injection system:Multi-port manifold injection
Engine aspiration:Naturally aspirated engine
Engine oil capacity:4.5 l
Coolant:6.9 l
Engine layout:Front, Longitudinal
Cylinder Bore:86 mm mm
Piston Stroke:94.6 mm mm
Compression ratio:9.6:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Petrol (Gasoline)
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban:11.2 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:9.8 l/100 km
Weight-to-power ratio:12.2 kg/Hp, 82 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:8.1 kg/Nm, 123 Nm/tonne
Space:
Kerb Weight:1585
Max. weight:2065
Max load:480
Trunk (boot) space - maximum:2297 l
Trunk (boot) space - minimum:933 l
Fuel tank capacity:80 l
Size:
Length:4510 mm mm [30mm more]
Width:1787 mm mm [97mm more]
Height:1680 mm mm [20mm more]
Wheelbase:2702 mm mm [58mm less]
Front track:1515 mm
Rear (Back) track:1520 mm
Powertrain:
Drivetrain ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheelRear wheel drive
Number of gears5
Transmission typeManual
Front brakesVentilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.]
Rear brakesDisc
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Power steeringHydraulic Steering
Tires size235/75 R15
Front suspensionCoil spring
Rear suspensionCoil spring

If you could change one thing about the Isuzu Rodeo, what would it be?