2002 Isuzu Rodeo Sport Review

Excellent except for gas mileage

Written by: Steve A on 01/15/2008

Vehicle

2002 Isuzu Rodeo Sport S V6 Hard Top 4WD 2dr SUV (3.2L 6cyl 4A)

Review

I bought my 02 Rodeo Sport last Jan. to replace my '94 Jeep Cherokee Sport. What a difference in foul weather. With the Jeep, as soon as the snow fell it had to go into 4WD and didn't come out until spring. With the Isuzu I've only had to use 4WD twice and that was cause I was playing around. I do miss the manual tranny of the jeep but that's about it. Otherwise I've had a few minor issues. On the way to work one day the tranny started slipping and popping. Luckily it was only a small cracked gasket which puked out all the tranny fluid. $180 and back on the road. Otherwise just the driver's side window which likes to rock forward when closing.

Favorite Features

The winter driving button is kinda trick. Works really well for launching from the random super icy intersection instead of having to bump it into 4wd. Suspension is great. Really doesn't bounce you around like a truck normally does. Very little body roll when driving aggressively.

Suggested Improvements

Gas mileage!! The best I've seen is 16 mpg. I average around 12-14 and drop as low at 8-10 in the winter. Warranty support: There are no dealers in my neck of the woods so if I need warranty work I'd have to ship it a couple hundred miles across state. Friendlier "removable" hardtop

Was this review helpful?      Yes No

Report inappropriate post

Unique and innovative

Written by: blackburndad on 10/31/2007

Vehicle

2002 Isuzu Rodeo Sport S V6 Soft Top 2WD 2dr SUV (3.2L 6cyl 4A)

Review

As an automotive technician, I have to say I am still impressed by this vehicle, even after being the original owner for over 4 years. Love this truck and love Isuzu.

Favorite Features

By-wire throttle. 4-Wheel ABS. Power drive mode (optimizes shifting control for maximum torque to the rear wheels, essentially turning this mini SUV into a pocket-rocket). Winter drive mode (optimizes shifting for maximum grip on icy roads, essentially eliminating rear wheel spin).

Suggested Improvements

4 wheel drive standard instead of optional. Body colored soft top instead of black. Power folding soft top. HID headlights.

Was this review helpful?      Yes No

Report inappropriate post

Sports SUV

Written by: sports suv on 09/16/2007

Vehicle

2002 Isuzu Rodeo Sport S V6 Hard Top 4WD 2dr SUV (3.2L 6cyl 4A)

Review

This SUV has massive towing for its size, hard to put the trailer on with the spare. It gets great gas mileage while towing a trailer, almost as good as without. Designed to tow.

Favorite Features

Towing capacity, size, on the fly 4wd.

Suggested Improvements

Swing spare tire carrier.

Was this review helpful?      Yes No

Report inappropriate post

Isuzu Rodeo Sport 02

Written by: GWise on 06/21/2007

Vehicle

2002 Isuzu Rodeo Sport S V6 Hard Top 4WD 2dr SUV (3.2L 6cyl 4A)

Review

Good reliable little vehicle. The only mechanical/electrical problem we have experienced is a defective dashboard light dimmer switch which the dealer replaced at no cost and an fuel injection oxygen sensor. The fuel economy is not the greatest for a relatively small vehicle but its truck based construction allows greater towing capacities than similar small sport utilities. I would buy it again.

Favorite Features

The body style and V6 power coupled with its ability to go in the snow are my favorite features.

Suggested Improvements

A little more front seat legroom and improvements to the rear swing door would be nice.

Was this review helpful?      Yes No

Report inappropriate post

Great Small SUV

Written by: Tonym211 on 11/20/2006

Vehicle

2002 Isuzu Rodeo Sport S V6 Hard Top 4WD 2dr SUV (3.2L 6cyl 4A)

Review

My Rodeo Sport hardtop has 77k miles with no major problems. Built very well and feels solid to drive, much more so than the Wrangler I used to own. Sits up high and the two bubble windows allow a good view of cars in the blindspots. The V6 engine is strong and the 4WD is excellent, the moonroofs are fun and add natural light, the 6-speaker stereo is pretty good and all the power options still work well. Good cargo room in the back and places for stuff in the front. It's easy to clean inside, and the outside even looks good dirty. And since it's small there's a lot more room in the garage. Overall a great little SUV for on and off-road.

Favorite Features

Engine, 4WD, small size, build-quality, simplicity, exterior looks.

Suggested Improvements

Gas mileage average or below other 4WD SUV's.

1 out 1 people found this review helpful

Was this review helpful?      Yes No

Report inappropriate post