Introduced in spring of 1989, Isuzu's Japanese-built compact sport-utility vehicle focused more on sport than on the utility end. The Amigo came with 2-wheel or on-demand 4-wheel drive and a choice of engines. A 96-horsepower 2.3-liter 4-cylinder engine went into the 2-wheel-drive S model, but other Amigos got a 120-horsepower, 2.6-liter four. Both engines drove a 5-speed manual transmission. Choices extended further--to two or four seats, an open or enclosed cargo area, and either of two trim levels (S or XS). All versions had two side doors and a side-opening tailgate, which held a full-size spare tire.