1996-1999 Isuzu Oasis: Road Test

Oasis delivers a firm and stable ride, exhibiting little body lean in turns. You can expect an absorbent and comfortable experience, even when rolling through bumpy urban streets. More agile and surefooted than most competitors, it feels more solid than the typical minivan. Acceleration is fairly brisk, but the 4-cylinder engine tends to get loud during hard acceleration. Road noise is excessive at highway speeds too, though wind noise is minimal for a minivan. Fuel economy ranks markedly above the minivan norm. We got mileage in the low 20s for city/highway driving. Interior dimensions are adequate but not great. For one thing, Oasis and Odyssey are narrower than the usual minivan. Three-across seating is especially cramped, and back-row leg room is tight. Front-to-rear walk-through space is limited, too. Even so, there's ample space for six in an Oasis, accompanied by sufficient cargo room for most people's requirements. The rear seat folds flush to the floor, serving as a clever alternative to removable seats. Plenty of storage areas are provided inside, too. Because the Oasis is smaller than most minivans, and stands about 3 inches lower than a Nissan Quest or Mercury Villager, getting aboard and exiting are exceptionally easy. The driving position is car-like, facing a well-organized dashboard. Visibility is good to all directions.

Value for the Money
If you don't need the greater interior space of a bigger minivan, or if you prefer swing-out rear doors to sliding side doors, an Oasis (or the nearly identical Honda Odyssey) can be a good choice.