2008 Isuzu i-290 and i-370 Road Test - Consumer Guide Automotive

Our road test for the 2008 Isuzu i-290 and i-370 includes a full evaluation of the 2008 Isuzu i-290 and i-370 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2008 Isuzu i-290 and i-370, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2008 Isuzu i-290 and i-370 help you decide if a 2008 Isuzu i-290 and i-370 is right for you.

2008 Isuzu i-290 and i-370 Road Test

Pros	Cons

Instruments/controls	Rear-seat comfort (Crew Cab)

Cargo room (crew cab)	Acceleration (I-290 w/ auto)

Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings

Acceleration

LS 4WD Crew Cab	Class Average
5	4.9

With either transmission, the 4-cylinder engine has adequate power for around-town driving, but lacks reserve for passing or hauling heavy loads. The 5-cylinder is sprightly with 2WD and adequate with 4WD. The 5-cylinder engine is particularly well-matched to the quick-shifting automatic transmission.

Fuel Economy

LS 4WD Crew Cab	Class Average
4	3.5

In Consumer Guide testing, a 2WD i-290 extended cab with automatic transmission averaged 21.1 mpg in mostly highway driving. Isuzu pickups use regular-grade gas.

Ride Quality

LS 4WD Crew Cab	Class Average
4	4.6

Overall, Isuzu pickups ride better than most in the class. Abrupt vertical motions over bumps and dips, along with some jittery feel on badly broken surfaces is present, but otherwise the ride is composed.

Steering/Handling/Braking

LS 4WD Crew Cab	Class Average
4	3.9

All versions corner with reasonable poise, though some testers found them slow to react to steering inputs. Good straightline stability, though grip is limited in corners. Overall, these are among the more-agile compact pickups. 4WD models have a noticeably larger turning radius than 2WD versions. Brakes provide quick, even stops.

Quietness

LS 4WD Crew Cab	Class Average
4	4.5

Less wind and road noise than in most competitors, though highway wind rush is prominent around the doors. The tires whine on coarse surfaces. GM's 5-cylinder engine is louder and coarser than rivals' V6s.

Controls

LS 4WD Crew Cab	Class Average
6	5.9

Climate controls are simple to use and clearly marked, though the audio controls require a long reach. Gauges are easy to read, but some digital readouts wash out in direct sunlight.

Details

LS 4WD Crew Cab	Class Average
5	4.7

Interior materials and fit-and-finish above average for the class. Still, some test models had a few squeaks and rattles from the dashboard area.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

LS 4WD Crew Cab	Class Average
5	5.6

Lots of headroom and legroom. The seats are adequately comfortable for long drives, though some testers complain of hard, flat seatbacks in entry level versions. The middle position on the bench seat is for occasional use only.

Room/Comfort (rear)

LS 4WD Crew Cab	Class Average
3	2.7

Extended cab's rear seat best suits preteens; adults lack legroom even if the front seats are pushed well forward. Crew Cabs are more spacious, but legroom is still no better than a compact sedan's. On both, the rear seats are hard and undersized, and entry and exit are difficult through small door openings.

Cargo Room

LS 4WD Crew Cab	Class Average
4	3.6

Interior storage is good on extended and Crew Cabs with rear seats folded. A unique dual-position support cable allows tailgate to be secured partially open, permitting 4x8 sheets to be carried atop the wheel wells with support from the tailgate.

Value within Class

LS 4WD Crew Cab	Class Average
4	5.8

Like their Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon cousins, the i-290 and i-370 are useful, well-balanced small trucks. Its positive attributes are overshadowed by the fact that Isuzu is discontinuing sales of light-duty vehicles in North America. If you like what these trucks have to offer, scout the Chevy or GMC instead.

Total Score