2000 Isuzu Rodeo Road Test - Consumer Guide Automotive

Our road test for the 2000 Isuzu Rodeo includes a full evaluation of the 2000 Isuzu Rodeo from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2000 Isuzu Rodeo, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2000 Isuzu Rodeo help you decide if a 2000 Isuzu Rodeo is right for you.

2000 Isuzu Rodeo Road Test

Pros	Cons

Cargo room	Wind noise

Acceleration (V6)	Fuel economy

	Ride

	Rear-seat entry/exit

Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings

Acceleration

S 2WD, auto.	LS 4WD, auto.	LSE 4WD	Class Average
2	4	4	4.4

Four-cylinder Rodeos feel sluggish, but V6 models are peppy, and our test 4WD Rodeo LS went 0-60 mph in 8.2 seconds.

Fuel Economy

S 2WD, auto.	LS 4WD, auto.	LSE 4WD	Class Average
4	3	3	3.6

We logged 17.4 mpg with one 4WD model, 15.8 with another. Both figures are typical of midsize SUVs.

Ride Quality

S 2WD, auto.	LS 4WD, auto.	LSE 4WD	Class Average
2	2	2	3.7

We haven't tested the new Intelligent Suspension Control, but Rodeo and Passport are choppy over small road imperfections, harsh over big bumps.

Steering/Handling/Braking

S 2WD, auto.	LS 4WD, auto.	LSE 4WD	Class Average
4	4	4	3.6

Rodeo and Passport are among the more agile midsize SUVs, but they feel "trucky," and there's plenty of body lean and tire squeal in tight turns.

Quietness

S 2WD, auto.	LS 4WD, auto.	LSE 4WD	Class Average
4	4	4	3.6

Considerable tire noise at highway speeds is masked by wind rustle. Engine fan roars at full throttle.

Controls

S 2WD, auto.	LS 4WD, auto.	LSE 4WD	Class Average
6	6	6	6

Undersized audio controls mar the simple dashboard layout. Unadorned trim makes the interior look spartan, but available leather upholstery helps.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

S 2WD, auto.	LS 4WD, auto.	LSE 4WD	Class Average
6	6	6	5.9

Not a class leader, but the seats are supportive and there's plenty of space for tall folks. Step-in height is lower than for most midsize-SUVs.

Room/Comfort (rear)

S 2WD, auto.	LS 4WD, auto.	LSE 4WD	Class Average
4	4	4	4.3

Narrow door openings hinder back seat entry/exit, and toe space is minimal, but otherwise there's good room for two adults, three in a pinch.

Cargo Room

S 2WD, auto.	LS 4WD, auto.	LSE 4WD	Class Average
8	8	8	7.5

The side-opening tailgate demands cumbersome two-handed operation: Opening requires raising the window; closing demands releasing a lever.

Value within Class

S 2WD, auto.	LS 4WD, auto.	LSE 4WD	Class Average
2	3	3	3.8

The spry V6 Rodeos and Passports emphasize the sport in sport-utility. But prices are no bargain and, overall, there's no outstanding feature that sets either above the competition.

Total Score