Our road test for the 1991-1997 Isuzu Rodeo includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the
1991-1997 Isuzu Rodeo and highlighted the vehicle's performance
with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation
1991-1997 Isuzu Rodeo is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
Acceleration is adequate but less than brisk with the early V6 and automatic. The 3.2-liter V6, made available in 1993, is an improvement in terms of smoothness and quietness. That V6 works well with automatic, which changes gears smoothly and downshifts promptly for passing. Gas mileage is nothing to boast about. One test Rodeo averaged just 13.9 mpg. Ride is firm yet surprisingly comfortable, as the absorbent suspension handily soaks up just about every flaw on paved roads. Braking distances are acceptable, though a 2WD Rodeo turned out to be prone to abrupt front-wheel lockup. Road noise is prominent at highway speeds. Occupants are treated well in a Rodeo. Rear leg room is ample, even with the front seats all the way back. Head clearance is good all around, and the driving position is comfortable for most people. Back doors are quite narrow at sill level, and open only about 70 degrees, so larger folks might feel squeezed when getting in and out. The full-size spare tire mounted inside many models cuts considerably into cargo space, but the back seat folds flat to create a wide cargo floor. Except for too many confusing buttons controlling lights and wipers, and a low-mounted radio, the dashboard is fine.
Value for the Money
The need to stop the vehicle to engage 4WD, then stop and back up to disengage it, is an inconvenience. Otherwise, the competent and tightly constructed Rodeo deserves a serious look, as it just might be the best Isuzu model on the market.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category |
Isuzu Rodeo LS auto Rating |
|
Performance |
4 |
|
Fuel Economy |
3 |
|
Ride Quality |
3 |
|
Steering/Handling/Braking |
3 |
|
Quietness |
4 |
|
Controls/Materials |
4 |
|
Interior Room |
5 |
|
Room/Comfort (rear) |
3 |
|
Cargo Capacity |
6 |
|
Value within Class |
4 |
| Total Score: |
39 |
|
Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer
Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering
and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room,
Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle
rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the
ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.