2004 Isuzu Rodeo Road Test - Consumer Guide Automotive

Our road test for the 2004 Isuzu Rodeo includes a full evaluation of the 2004 Isuzu Rodeo from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2004 Isuzu Rodeo, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2004 Isuzu Rodeo help you decide if a 2004 Isuzu Rodeo is right for you.

2004 Isuzu Rodeo Road Test

Pros	Cons

Cargo room	Wind noise

	Fuel economy

	Ride

	Rear-seat entry/exit

Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings

Acceleration

4WD S 3.2, auto.	Class Average
4	4.8

The 3.2-liter V6 is reasonably peppy and has decent passing power. Test automatic-transmission 3.2 4WD Rodeo did 0-60 mph in 9.3 sec. Unfortunately, the automatic can dither in full-throttle downshifts. And most rivals don't need to disengage 4WD on dry pavement. No Rodeo with 3.5-liter V6 made available for testing.

Fuel Economy

4WD S 3.2, auto.	Class Average
3	3.8

Typical of 6-cyl midsize SUVs. Test automatic-transmission 3.2-liter V6 4WD Rodeos averaged 14.5-15.8 mpg.

Ride Quality

4WD S 3.2, auto.	Class Average
2	4.5

Truck-chassis-choppy on rough pavement, harsh over big bumps and potholes.

Steering/Handling/Braking

4WD S 3.2, auto.	Class Average
4	3.7

Fairly agile for a midsize SUV, but still plenty of body lean and tire squeal in tight turns.

Quietness

4WD S 3.2, auto.	Class Average
4	4.4

Tire noise considerable at highway speeds, wind rush even more so. Marked engine roar at full throttle.

Controls

4WD S 3.2, auto.	Class Average
6	6.2

Dated but convenient design. Cabin materials nothing special and decor rather spartan, but available leather upholstery helps.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

4WD S 3.2, auto.	Class Average
6	6.4

Supportive seats, plenty of head room, and a lower step-in height than most SUVs, but seats are too low to the floor and the driver seat lacks both height adjustment and sufficient rearward travel for the long-of-leg.

Room/Comfort (rear)

4WD S 3.2, auto.	Class Average
4	5.6

Narrow door openings hamper entry/exit. Toe space minimal, but otherwise good room for two adults.

Cargo Room

4WD S 3.2, auto.	Class Average
8	7.8

Side-hinged tailgate demands cumbersome two-handed operation: Opening requires raising the window; closing demands releasing a lever in the hinge area.

Value within Class

4WD S 3.2, auto.	Class Average
3	5.1

Though fairly sporty, the Rodeo's more-than-decade-old design leaves it way behind today's competition in most respects, especially in ride and 4WD convenience.

Total Score