ISUZU LIGHT VEHICLES "GO FARTHER" IN 1999:

Sport-Utility Specialization and Wide Vehicle Array Set the Pace

Extending its truck-based focus and sport-utility specialization, American Isuzu Motors Inc., the U.S. distributor of Isuzu vehicles, enters the final model year of this century with a comprehensive offering of light vehicles.

Ranging from Isuzu's flagship SUV, the Trooper, to VehiCROSS, an all-new high-performance sport-utility vehicle, Isuzu is poised to extend its SUV specialist reputation and overall market position.

Trooper: The name Trooper is synonymous with sport-utility heritage, value and performance. Widely credited as having helped establish the SUV category and Isuzu in the United States, this respected model continues to improve. For 1999, Trooper will be offered in three trim levels beginning with the S model and extending to the Luxury model. Even in its most entry-level trim, the Isuzu Trooper is a world-class SUV-roomy, versatile, rugged and powered by Isuzu's dependable V6 engine. Models equipped with automatic transmission add Isuzu's patented TORQUE-ON-DEMAND® traction control system to Trooper's lengthy menu of standard and optional features. This innovative drive system assures the driver that his or her Trooper benefits from maximum traction regardless of road surface or driving conditions.

ABS, four-wheel disc brakes, luxury appointments and a history of international SUV performance are a few of the credits Trooper brings to market this year. Beyond that, an engineering pedigree second to none and overall improvements lend even more service, value and appeal to the dean of Isuzu's SUV line-up.

Rodeo: Assembled in the United States at Isuzu's Indiana facility, Rodeo is now Isuzu's most popular sport-utility worldwide. Originally introduced in 1991 and completely re-engineered in 1998, the Rodeo, like other Isuzu models, continues to benefit from Isuzu's maxim: "Is Better Possible?" Apparently, Isuzu engineers take such words seriously as the model enters its second year of production with an expanded list of options, new colors, refined basics and an all-new trim level.

The Rodeo LSE combines Trooper elegance with Rodeo practicality-the result being a head-turning SUV with all-condition abilities and boulevard good looks.

While Isuzu engineers have added luxury touches to the '99 Rodeo they have not overlooked the basic needs of American SUV buyers. Hence, the Rodeo model mix begins with a 2.2-liter, manual transmission version and extends upwards. But even in its most entry-level trim, Rodeo continues to set the pace for SUV value, performance and all-around transportation style.

Amigo: Isuzu brought back the fun of spirited high-performance sport-utility motoring with the re-introduction of Amigo in 1998. Also assembled at Isuzu's SIA facility in Indiana, the 1999 Amigo shares much of the Rodeo's proven running gear and equipment. Available with either a peppy and economical four-cylinder or high-performance V6, the 1999 Amigo is in a class of its own. As the vehicle responsible for inspiring the more sporting side of sport-utility driving, Amigo continues to push the SUV envelope in terms of performance, style and value.

For the new model year, Amigo will be available in hard-top and soft-top versions. The soft top has been re-engineered for better use and permits the tailgate to open without removing the rear window curtain. The polypropylene hard top enables the use of glass side and rear windows, along with a removable rear moonroof. Teamed with the front moonroof, standard equipment on all Amigo models, the rear moonroof gives Isuzu an SUV-category exclusive.

Striking new colors, attractive fender flare treatments, high-performance statistics and welcoming interior appointments are all Amigo attributes. Underlying these, and far more, is Amigo's basic premise-sport-utility driving that "Goes Farther"…with an "attitude."

VehiCROSS: Already touted by automotive experts and the press as leading the SUV future, Isuzu's newest model best represents the company's sport-utility focus-and imagination.

Created to broaden the international SUV horizon, VehiCROSS is the progeny of over 80 years of truck-building expertise and dedication to the SUV segment. Conceived as a high-performance, high-style and limited-production model, the Isuzu VehiCROSS is finished by hand at Isuzu's Fujisawa facility in Japan. The combination of leading edge engineering technologies, innovative ceramic die application and final assembly by skilled workmen harkens to auto-manufacturing's past. A time when high-performance and luxury vehicles were assembled to order by the very best technicians, stylists and mechanics, using the most modern techniques and materials, enhanced by the human touch and spirit.

For Isuzu and VehiCROSS the melding of human and automated assembly results in high-performance handling and truly impressive power. VehiCROSS is truly a one-of-a-kind SUV.

Unlike Isuzu's volume SUV models, an estimated two hundred VehiCROSS units per month will be available in 1999.

Hombre: When Isuzu established its dealer body in the United States nearly twenty years ago, it relied upon its proven mini-pickup truck. Consequently, the bedrock of Isuzu's growth has remained with its light-duty truck offerings and, for 1999, this segment continues to be of significant value.

Available in a variety of cab and powertrain configurations, the Isuzu Hombre is manufactured in the United States and has become recognized for its handsome silhouette, rugged dependability and value. New for 1999 is a three-door spacecab model, additional exterior colors, interior upgrades and other mechanical and cosmetic improvements. Two- and four-wheel drive models and choice of transmissions are available.

Oasis: Unlike the Isuzu VehiCROSS being a "wolf in wolf's clothing," the Isuzu Oasis minivan's personality might be well-considered an "truck in sheep's clothing."

This internationally lauded minivan continues with interior and exterior refinements, a new seating, wheel and roof rack option package, new colors and a customer satisfaction record that makes headlines.

The Oasis is a nimble performer with handling reminiscent of a passenger car and interior NVH levels to match. With its seven-passenger seating capacity, the Oasis rounds out Isuzu's SUV lineup.

Customer Assurance: Regardless of vehicle trim level, model choice or point of origin, every Isuzu customer has the assurance of comprehensive vehicle warranties, road-side assistance and other welcoming guarantees. Enjoyable, safe and reliable transportation is what Isuzu is all about. To "Go farther" in vehicle design, value and after-sale consideration adds to Isuzu's sport-utility specialist reputation and the customer's peace of mind.

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

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