Isuzu Rodeo (03 on) - Review

The Isuzu Rodeo is the successor to the TF pick-up truck, and with the gradual disappearance of the Isuzu Trooper, is expected to be both a workhorse vehicle as well as a family 4x4. The Rodeo succeeds in appearing less rugged and perhaps less intimidating than many pick-up trucks, with a neat interior and attractive design. Two-wheel drive-only models offered at the bottom end of the range with the rest featuring a part-time 4WD set-up. A good effort but almost outclassed by the latest Nissan, Toyota and Mitsubishi pick-ups.

The Rodeo feels surprisingly car-like inside compared to other pick-up trucks. There is no secondary lever next to the gearstick to engage four-wheel drive or low-ratio mode - merely three simple buttons, each one labeled for the corresponding transmission mode. There are plenty of soft-touch materials yet the Rodeo has a sturdy feel. The elevated driving position offers a good view of the road and the dashboard and instruments are uncluttered and clear.

The 2.5-litre model offers 100bhp, while the 3.0-litre model produces 130bhp. Since the Rodeo's launch Isuzu has also offered an official aftermarket power upgrade for 3.0-litre models through its dealer network. The Rodeo was also the first diesel pick-up truck in the UK to be offered with an automatic transmission option (available on 3.0-litre models). The 3.0-litre engine is able to hustle the Rodeo along at a decent rate which should be more than acceptable for anyone switching to the vehicle from a car or 4x4. The engine perhaps is not as refined as more recent entrants in the market, but is still good for what is essentially a commercial vehicle. The Rodeo steers precisely and doesn't wallow around too much when cornering.