Isuzu Rodeo UTS-145 3.2 i V6 24V 2WD (208 Hp) Automatic
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 290 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1645 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. The top speed reaches 180 km/h. 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.
3.2 i V6 24V 2WD (208 Hp) Automatic Verdict:
Performance Verdict
With the same powerful V6, this 2WD automatic variant provides excellent on-road performance. The absence of 4WD components means slightly less weight and drag, potentially improving acceleration.
Fuel Economy
While still not economical by modern standards, the 2WD configuration offers a marginal improvement in fuel efficiency over its 4WD counterpart. It's the most 'efficient' V6 option.
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): | 3.2 i V6 24V 2WD (208 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production: | 1998 |
| End of production: | 2004 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | SUV |
| Seats: | 5 |
| Doors: | 5 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 208 Hp @ 5400 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 65.7 Hp/l [8mm more] |
| Torque: | 290 Nm @ 3000 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | 6VD1-W More details about the engine 6VD1-W |
| Engine displacement: | 3165 |
| Number of cylinders: | 6 |
| Engine configuration: | V-engine |
| Number of valves per cylinder: | 4 |
| Fuel injection system: | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration: | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity: | 4.7 l |
| Coolant: | 11.1 l |
| Engine layout: | Front, Longitudinal |
| Cylinder Bore: | 93.4 mm mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 77 mm mm |
| Compression ratio: | 9.1:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed: | 180 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 7.9 kg/Hp, 126.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 5.7 kg/Nm, 176.3 Nm/tonne |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 1645 |
| Max. weight: | 2245 |
| Max load: | 600 |
| Trunk (boot) space - maximum: | 2297 l |
| Trunk (boot) space - minimum: | 933 l |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 80 l |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 4488 mm mm [8mm more] |
| Width: | 1788 mm mm [98mm more] |
| Height: | 1725 mm mm [65mm more] |
| Wheelbase: | 2702 mm mm [58mm less] |
| Front track: | 1514 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1519 mm |
| Powertrain: | |
|---|---|
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 4 |
| Transmission type | Automatic |
| 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 | 245/70 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
| Front suspension | Coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |














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