2003 Isuzu Rodeo S V6 Rwd 4dr SUV (3.2L 6cyl 4A)
Very dependable. Great rear bumper is a 6 inch wide rest, a shelf or a seat when tailgate is open (like no other SUV has). Also, because back window lifts up separate from the tailgate, I can carry 12 ft long pipes and lumber just extending 2 feet out the back window while it is nearly all the way down. The seats lay down as a flat surface unlike most SUVs that leave the passenger seats at an angle when folded downward. CONS: I notice that the paint chips at each rock dent (lacks flexibility) then quickly rusts underneath. Tires squeal in tight turns even at idle speed. What other compact SUV is built to tow over 4000 pounds? It pulls a 17' fiberglass boat easily on road or in & out of ramps.
My '03 came with a 6 cd changer, all functions right at the dash and very accessible. With the power seats and the optional leather, it challenges my BMW 5 series in luxury and without a hugh trans hump restricting passenger leg room.
The name Rodeo sounds like a kid's car or first time low budget starter. It is indeed a sufficiently adequate and powerful utility SUV and should have a more respectable name.