2004 Isuzu Rodeo Review
Summary
What Edmunds.com says
An impressive V6 engine makes its debut for 2004. Too bad it has to be in the under-achieving Rodeo.
Pros
Stylish exterior, powerful new V6, great powertrain warranty.
Cons
Cheap interior pieces, flaccid suspension, uncomfortable front seats, questionable build quality.
What's New for 2004
Isuzu has made a few changes this year to make the Rodeo more appealing to SUV shoppers. First off, there's a new range-topping 3.5-liter V6 that makes 250 horsepower. Last year's 3.2-liter V6 has a new home in the base model; the four-cylinder engine has been dropped. Other alterations this year include a new Sound Package, a new Color Package and a new tire-pressure monitoring system.
Consumer Ratings & Reviews
satisfied
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 8 | Fun-to-Drive: | 9 | Build Quality: | 9 |
| Comfort: | 9 | Interior Design: | 7 | Reliability: | 9 |
| Fuel Economy: | 8 | Exterior Design: | 8 | ||
Vehicle
2004 Isuzu Rodeo S Rwd 4dr SUV (3.2L 6cyl 5M)
Review
Just went over the 90k mile mark on my 04 Rodeo I purchased new almost 5 yrs ago (my 4th Isuzu since 88). Bought the extended warranty but never had to use it. I've been extremely happy with this ride. No surprises (knock on wood). Still get over 20 mpg on trips and 15 mpg in town. With all the rebates, I keep my eye on new SUVs but really can't justify the expense as the equivalent value in today's market is just too steep. I'd hate to unload this Rodeo, it still runs so well. Timely maintenance and an honest mechanic are key. I have no reservations about taking this Rodeo on long trips. I feel real fortunate to have owned this SUV, having a ride in the shop is no fun.
Favorite Features
Steering mounted cruise. 81 cf of cargo. Reliability of systems. Ease of adding aftermarket accessories(Yakima rack, grill guard and towing hitch).
Suggested Improvements
It's a no frills ride and I understood that when I bought it. I use it to haul stuff, hunt and fish. I got no complaints.
My second Rodeo, just as great!!
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 10 | Fun-to-Drive: | 10 | Build Quality: | 10 |
| Comfort: | 10 | Interior Design: | 10 | Reliability: | 10 |
| Fuel Economy: | 10 | Exterior Design: | 10 | ||
Vehicle
2004 Isuzu Rodeo S Rwd 4dr SUV (3.2L 6cyl 5M)
Review
This is my second Rodeo. My first was a 2002 LS. I never had any problem with it. Another driver hit me and I think I would have been killed if I were not in my Rodeo. So I bought another one with the insurance money. This one is newer and has the 3.5L engine, the gray trim, upgraded sound and fog lights. I love it even more than my old one. It has great pick up, great interior. I love the controls for the stereo on the steering wheel. The price was great and it is in perfect condition. I know it will last forever too. My old one never had any problem. These vehicles are such great quality and value and low maintenance that I can't understand why Isuzu quit making them. I love mine!
Favorite Features
Great exterior style and look with the gray trim and fog lights. Awesome engine and pickup. Great ride. And I know firsthand that it is a safe vehicle since I was hit by an old solid steel pickup and walked away from it. The stereo is great and holds 6 CDs and sounds great! The cargo area is great!
Suggested Improvements
Start making them again! This is a solid vehicle and a great value and Isuzu should start making them again! That is why you don't see many for sale. People who have them, like me, know what they have and don't sell them.
Just what the doctor ordered
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 8 | Fun-to-Drive: | 8 | Build Quality: | 8 |
| Comfort: | 7 | Interior Design: | 8 | Reliability: | 8 |
| Fuel Economy: | 7 | Exterior Design: | 8 | ||
Vehicle
2004 Isuzu Rodeo S Rwd 4dr SUV (3.2L 6cyl 5M)
Review
For me, with a towing package, this is the ideal suv for the money. I don't know where you can find an equal value in today's market. To date, other than oil changes, I've only replaced the drive belt and tires. This is my 4th Isuzu since the mid 80s, I average about 120k mi/truck between purchases. With routine attention to maintenance they've all been reliable rides. Like many others on this site I can not understand the low ratings from editors. I'd like to see Isuzu revive the Trooper and Rodeo in the US soon.
Favorite Features
Cruise control on the steering wheel, Operable tailgate glass, cargo capacities. I'm impressed with the base model sound system.
Suggested Improvements
Towing package as standard equipment would complete the picture.
1 out 2 people found this review helpful
Love the Rodeo..... Almost
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 10 | Fun-to-Drive: | 9 | Build Quality: | 9 |
| Comfort: | 8 | Interior Design: | 7 | Reliability: | 5 |
| Fuel Economy: | 8 | Exterior Design: | 10 | ||
Vehicle
2004 Isuzu Rodeo S Rwd 4dr SUV (3.2L 6cyl 5M)
Review
I love almost everything about the 2004 Direct Injection Rodeo, except for the fuel injection problem that I have had in BOTH 2004 Rodeos I have had. It sometimes wants to hesitate during my first acceleration of the day, but then performs fine. I can't seem to find anyone else that has had this problem, but I have experienced it in both Rodeo's that I have had.
Favorite Features
I love the power of the engine. You can't find that performance in any other SUV in its class. It will leave the others in the dust. The 6-disc changer and steering wheel controls are a great feature as well.
Suggested Improvements
Fix the fuel injection problem! I thought after my first Rodeo went back to Isuzu, I would no longer have the problem. Guess again, it has shown its face with this Rodeo as well. Don't bother making Isuzu aware of the problem, they just make you think you are imagining it!
4 out 4 people found this review helpful
Da Bugga is Cherry
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 8 | Fun-to-Drive: | 9 | Build Quality: | 6 |
| Comfort: | 7 | Interior Design: | 6 | Reliability: | 7 |
| Fuel Economy: | 4 | Exterior Design: | 10 | ||
Vehicle
2004 Isuzu Rodeo S 4WD 4dr SUV (3.2L 6cyl 4A)
Review
I've had my Rodeo for little over a year now and I'm pretty happy with it. For some reason my buttons on my steering wheel don't work as well as another Rodeo that we had test drove, but oh well. I think the exterior is definitely nice and if you throw some tires on and give it maybe a slight lift, the Isuzu Rodeo is a sick kick ride. I have to go back and forth on an uphill road and with its 3.5 liter V6, it doesn't disappoint. I love driving my Rodeo, although I may turn it in for a smaller car : (
Favorite Features
Nice exterior, 3.5 liter V6, fun to drive.
Suggested Improvements
Better interior a must, suspension, better speakers(I changed mine).
1 out 1 people found this review helpful
View Pricing for Other Years
- 2004 Isuzu Rodeo
- 2003 Isuzu Rodeo
- 2002 Isuzu Rodeo
- 2001 Isuzu Rodeo
- 2000 Isuzu Rodeo
- 1999 Isuzu Rodeo
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