Isuzu Rodeo UTS-145 2.2 i L 2WD (130 Hp)
Overall Rating
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.
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:
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.
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 Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Transmission type | Manual |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.] |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 235/75 R15 |
| Front suspension | Coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |












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