2001 Isuzu VehiCross: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

This 4-seat, 2-dr SUV borrows its drivetrain from Isuzu's full-size Trooper SUV, including the 3.5-liter V6, automatic transmission, and Torque On Demand 4WD that can be left engaged on dry pavement and includes low-range gearing. VehiCross's body is metal with unpainted composite plastic lower cladding. The tailgate encloses spare tire and swings open to the left beneath a top-hinged rear window. Recaro-brand leather front seats, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, and 18-inch alloy wheels are standard.

COMPETITION

Ignored in the past, compact SUVs are now some of the hottest-selling vehicles around. Though our Best Buy Honda CR-V doesn't offer true off-road ability and has milquetoast acceleration, it does mix ride comfort, cargo capacity, and versatility with all-weather traction.

Another car-based mini-SUV, the Subaru Forester, is our Recommended choice. Like the CR-V it doesn't have a low range for serious off-road use, it blends excellent on-road manners with SUV styling.

New this year are the Ford Escape and clone Mazda Tribute. We have been very impressed with early production models and may elevate these two to Best Buys after we get more seat time.