Isuzu Rodeo UTS-145 3.2 i V6 24V 2WD (208 Hp)


Overall Rating

7.4 / 10
Safety N/A / 5
Not Rated
Engine 3.8 / 5
Value 4.0 / 5
Performance 3.5 / 5
Comfort 3.0 / 5
People\'s Opinion N/A / 5
Not Rated

Isuzu Rodeo:

The Isuzu Rodeo is an automotive nameplate that was used by the Japanese automobile manufacturer Isuzu between 1988 and 2004. Isuzu has utilized the "Rodeo" name on two different vehicles—a compact pickup truck sold in Japan, and a midsize SUV offered in North America.
Prior to its establishment as a stand-alone model, the "Rodeo" title had previously suffixed four-wheel drive versions of the Japanese market Isuzu Faster pickup from 1978. These vehicles, titled "Isuzu Faster Rodeo" spanned two generations. It was not until the third iteration, offered between 1988 and 1994, that the firm simplified the name of four-wheel drive models to "Isuzu Rodeo". Moreover, in Japan from 1981, the name "Isuzu Bighorn Rodeo" was used on the SUV that Isuzu shortly abbreviated to "Isuzu Bighorn"—known as the "Isuzu Trooper" in most international markets....(Read more on Wikipedia)

UTS-145 Overview:

Isuzu Rodeo (UTS-145). With 290 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1645 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. The top speed reaches 180 km/h. A sport utility vehicle offering higher ground clearance and versatile cargo space. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.

Safety Rating
Not rated
Euro NCAP Year N/A
Adult Occupant N/A
Stars N/A
Expert Note:
The Isuzu Rodeo UTS-145 generation was not tested by Euro NCAP. Safety features are typical for an SUV of its era, primarily focusing on structural integrity rather than advanced driver-assistance systems.

3.2 i V6 24V 2WD (208 Hp) Verdict:

Rating 4 stars

Performance Verdict

This is arguably the most spirited on-road performer of the lineup. The V6's power combined with 2WD and a manual transmission offers the best acceleration and responsiveness for a Rodeo.

Fuel Economy

The 2WD manual V6 offers the best fuel economy among the V6 options, though it still falls short of modern expectations. It's a compromise for those seeking performance over absolute efficiency.

Best Use Case: Highway / Urban

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Robust and durable V6 engine (6VD1-W)
  • • Good towing capacity (V6 models)
  • • Spacious interior and cargo volume
  • • Capable off-road performance (4WD models)
  • • Strong value on the used market
  • • Durable body-on-frame construction

Cons:

  • • Poor fuel economy, especially with V6 engines
  • • Dated interior design and features
  • • Rough ride quality typical of older SUVs
  • • Underpowered 2.2L four-cylinder engine
  • • Limited advanced safety features
  • • Some parts can be harder to find for older models

Specifications:

Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(Rodeo: 1995 - 1998).

General:
Brand:Isuzu
Model:Rodeo
Generation:UTS-145
Modification (Engine):3.2 i V6 24V 2WD (208 Hp)
Start of production:1998
End of production:2004
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:SUV
Seats:5
Doors:5
Engine:
Power:208 Hp @ 5400 rpm. Same horsepower
Power per litre:65.7 Hp/l [8mm more]
Torque:290 Nm @ 3000 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:6VD1-W More details about the engine 6VD1-W
Engine displacement:3165
Number of cylinders:6
Engine configuration:V-engine
Number of valves per cylinder:4
Fuel injection system:Multi-port manifold injection
Engine aspiration:Naturally aspirated engine
Engine oil capacity:4.7 l
Coolant:11 l
Engine layout:Front, Longitudinal
Cylinder Bore:93.4 mm mm
Piston Stroke:77 mm mm
Compression ratio:9.1:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Petrol (Gasoline)
Maximum speed:180 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:7.9 kg/Hp, 126.4 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:5.7 kg/Nm, 176.3 Nm/tonne
Space:
Kerb Weight:1645
Max. weight:2245
Max load:600
Trunk (boot) space - maximum:2297 l
Trunk (boot) space - minimum:933 l
Fuel tank capacity:80 l
Size:
Length:4488 mm mm [8mm more]
Width:1788 mm mm [98mm more]
Height:1725 mm mm [65mm more]
Wheelbase:2702 mm mm [58mm less]
Front track:1514 mm
Rear (Back) track:1519 mm
Powertrain:
Drivetrain ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheelRear wheel drive
Number of gears5
Transmission typeManual
Front brakesVentilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.]
Rear brakesDisc
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Power steeringHydraulic Steering
Tires size245/70 R16
Front suspensionCoil spring
Rear suspensionCoil spring

Is the Isuzu Rodeo your dream ride or just a daily drive? Let's talk!