REVIEWS AND ROAD TESTS

Abandoned to its fate

This model’s headlights, grill, bumpers and windshield pillars were all restyled 4 years ago. But obviously the changes weren’t enough to get utility vehicle fans out to see the Trooper. And it’s easy to see why: like Saab products, Isuzu’s models live in the shadow of the Saturns, the main breadwinner for SSI dealers in North America and direct competition for some of GM’s utility vehicles.When you climb inside, you’ll be amazed at the resemblance between the Trooper and the famous Range Rover. Superb finishing, careful manufacturing, a tasteful and elegant dashboard – there’s no question that the Trooper is the most British of all Japanese sport utilities. Only the long, nickel-wrapped gearshift lever jars with the overall classic ambience. The driving environment is as close to perfect as you can get, and so is visibility. But narrow doors will have rear-seat passengers holding their breath until they’re aboard. Trunk volume is attractive and as always, access to the cargo area is via two Western-style unevenly split doors, which hinder rear visibility to some extent.Renowned for its comfortable and quiet ride, the old-style Trooper was also known as a utility with outdated handling. Steering has since improved in precision, the gear box no longer sounds like a locomotive and ABS brakes come as standard equipment. But the all-wheel drive system has neither the refinement nor the efficiency of its rivals and when winds are strong, the Trooper loses its confidence. As for the DOHC 3.5-liter V6 engine, it generates 215 horsepower.

It’s a valiant piece of machinery, provided you bring it in regularly to fill its 83-liter gas tank.

PROS
Off-road capabilities
Fully-equiped
Soft ride

CONS
Minimal support from
General Motors High fuel consumption
Significant roll when cornering