Driving Impressions

Speaking almost of off-road operation, the Rodeo has always been a competent player when the pavement ends. With its shorter wheelbase the new generation should be at least as good if not better than the old one. Dynamically, we found the redesigned Rodeo more nimble than its predecessor, thanks in part to its precise new rack-and-pinion steering system and also to its shorter wheelbase and wider track. And the new V6 yields acceleration that's in the upper quartile of the midsize pack. As for ride quality, however, the jury is still out. Our LS tester, a pre-production unit with hardly any miles on the clock, felt a little too stiff on small, sharp bumps. We suspect the compliance will improve once the new has worn off the shock absorbers, something to keep in mind when you test drive any new SUV. If the odometer has less than 1000 miles, it's likely to be a little stiffer than a vehicle with more mileage.

Final Word

All in all, it looks to us as if Isuzu has done an excellent job of updating a pretty good sport-utility vehicle without diluting its high value index. In fact, with the possible exception of the venerable Jeep Cherokee, a design that's definitely showing its age despite last year's update, the new Rodeo may emerge as one of the best buys in a crowded class.