1997 Isuzu Rodeo

Awaiting the major redesign for 1998, the 1997 Isuzu Rodeo has no substantial changes made for this model year. If you've undoubtedly noticed, everywhere you look there's an SUV. Every major automobile manufacturer has one on their lineup. The surge in demand for this type of vehicle has been beneficial for Isuzu which has been an expert in such vehicles. The basic rear-drive Rodeo S comes with a 2.6-liter four-cylinder engine and five-speed manual transmission, one of the few four-cylinder offerings in the mid-size class. It offers the option of four-wheel drive, as well as a 3.2-liter V6 engine upgrade.

The LS model includes the V6 as part of its standard equipment. With 4WD and a five-speed manual transmission and a 4WD LS with automatic transmission is also available. The Rodeo perform equally well on paved roads, unpaved roads or no roads at all, although eight inches of ground clearance limit usefulness in seriously rocky terrain. The suspension provides an easy ride for the occupants, regardless of terrain. There are more sophisticated sport-utilities in this size class, offering a variety of electronically-activated full-time 4WD systems. But the Rodeo still look good, its value index is still high, the Rodeo is tough and durable, it offers manual transmissions with the six-cylinder engines, and tough to beat for that prime SUV factor, its roominess.