2000 Isuzu Trooper

By Bob Storck

Reeling from questionable criticism from Consumer's Union, Isuzu is responding with a value priced rear drive version. A waterfall grille, wheels and two-tone paint help the upscale Trooper, still offering the dubious gold trim option. Previous Troopers were simple and square, but the new styling accents the wheel flares and has enough curved lines to keep the eyes moving.

For many years Isuzu didn't have a real presence in the American market, preferring to ride on the coat tails of partner General Motors, for which it made small trucks and re-badged Geo products. The V6 is one of the most sophisticated and refined power plants in a sport utility. Remarkably, there is good torque throughout the range -- not a common feature in multi-valve/multi-cam engines.

The interior comes with most refined features as part of the standard package. Interior appointments include some gauges seldom found in other vehicles, including optional inclinometers. Folding rear foot rests and wood trim are items that others don't usually have.

Under the rear floor is a hidden storage compartment that helps keep those valuable items out of sight. Split rear seats are not uncommon, but the 70:30 vertical split rear cargo door is.