THE AMIGO ENGINE POWERED FOR ADVENTURE AND PERFORMANCE

WHITTIER, Calif. --- Isuzu's head-turning compact SUV may be equipped with either a powerful V6 or DOHC, in-line, four-cylinder engine. New for 1999 is an available automatic transmission.

The high-performance V6 is a 3.24iter, 24-valve, 4-cam and is rated at 214 ft.-Ib. torque @ 3000 rpm and 205 hp @ 5400 rpm. Compared to other V6 engines, engine weight has been significantly reduced due to a more compact cylinder head design-the use of magnesium alloy in the head covers and a die cast aluminum crankcase.

In addition to its low weight, Amigo's V6 power output is improved through a combination of high-flow straight configuration cylinder heads and an intake system featuring variable air-intake port lengths. This system employs a valve that shunts incoming air through either the short or long tubes, depending on engine speed. At 3600 rpm or below, the valve, activated by a solenoid, closes. This diverts incoming air into the long tubes, providing high torque at low and intermediate speeds. Above 3600 rpm, the solenoid turns off, opening the valve, effectively shortening the intake length and providing higher torque at high speeds.

The engine air intake duct has been moved from under the hood to a location at the top of the left-front wheel well. This helps boost performance by directing cooler air to the engine. Duct design, combined with a remote air-filter, reduces the intake of moisture and dirt into the engine.

The cylinder heads are of aluminum alloy with pent-roof design. To make the engine more compact, the included valve angle is reduced to 190, while squish areas have been incorporated to allow reliable combustion at low rpm. Phenolic plastic gaskets are used where the intake plenum joins the engine block to reduce air-intake temperature and increase performance. In addition, valve lift and timing have been optimized to improve torque at low and intermediate speeds.

Isuzu has also made significant strides in the reduction of friction through the use of low-tension valve springs, reduced oil pump rotor width, short skirt pistons, fine-finished cam bearing surfaces and groove bearings for connecting rods and main bearings. This, along with Isuzu's direct valve actuation system results in higher performance and improved fuel efficiency.

A new igniter, utilizing technology borrowed from Formula I racing, operates a transistor that was built into the plug-top coils of each cylinder. This provides improved ignition performance and eliminates the need for a conventional ignition control module. Platinum-tipped spark plugs, with a service life of 100,000 miles, greatly extend reliability.

Both 1999 Amigo engines are equipped with an auto-tensioned polyester serpentine drive belt. This assures that the belt tension never needs manual adjustment, reduces the need for maintenance and extends the service life of the engine.
These features and more combine to provide the V6-equipped Amigo, with brisk performance and an unmatched driving experience.

Four-Cylinder:

Alternatively, the Isuzu Amigo may be equipped with an in-line four-cylinder engine. Standard on the base two-wheel drive model, is a 2.24iter DOW, 16-valve design, providing 130 hp @ 5200 rpm along with 144 ft.-lb. torque @ 4000 rpm. Its high-compression, pent-root center-plug combustion chambers are fueled through throttle-body fuel injection and fired by a direct ignition system, providing excellent power and fuel economy.

Vibration and noise are suppressed through a combination of balance shafts, an electric cooling fan with an electronic control module and an ignition knock control system. A serpentine belt and platinum plugs help stretch time between maintenance intervals and extend engine service life.

Isuzu has been successful in developing engines that deliver more horsepower and torque, while providing longer service intervals and lighter weight. At the same time, Isuzu's 60-month or 60,000-mile power train warranty still applies.

American Isuzu Motors Inc. is the U.S. distributor of Isuzu light vehicles, commercial vehicles and diesel engines.