2002 Isuzu Trooper: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Trooper closes out its run as Isuzu's flagship SUV, replaced for 2003 by the Chevrolet TrailBlazer-based Ascender. Trooper seats five and offers only a V6; Ascender seats seven and offers 6- and 8-cyl power. The swan-song 2002 Trooper continues with 70/30 split swing-out rear cargo doors, a 3.5-liter V6, and antilock 4-wheel disc brakes. The base S model offers manual or automatic transmission; LS and Limited models are automatic only. All offer rear-wheel drive or 4WD. Optional on the 4WD S and standard on the other 4x4s is Isuzu's Torque-On-Demand 4WD that can be left engaged on dry pavement. The S's standard 4WD must be disengaged on dry pavement. Both systems include low-range gearing. Maximum towing capacity is 5000 lb. For 2002, the S model adds standard privacy glass, the LS a sunroof that had been optional, the top-line Limited a premium Nakamichi audio system.

COMPETITION

Though this segment has cooled somewhat with the rise in fuel prices, it's still one of the hottest. Our Best Buys are the Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban.

Recommended are the Ford Expedition and GMC Yukon. For a few more bucks you can get the Toyota Land Cruiser. Its high price is the only thing holding back this refined and drivable SUV. We love the size, comfort, and power of these big SUVs but wish they got a few more miles per gallon.