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AutoWorld.com -
CERRITOS, CA.--With a hard-earned reputation for sport-utility specialization,
Isuzu's top selling model, the Rodeo, continues to make its mark in the compact sport
utility segment with class leading engine and drivetrain credentials. Rodeo can be
equipped with a powerful and efficient all-aluminum 3.2-liter, 24-valve, 4-cam V6
engine, rated at 214-ft. lb. torque
@ 3000 rpm and 205 hp @ 5400 rpm. The engine is the
result of over five years and some 4000 hours of bench testing and for 2000 now
conforms to NLEV exhaust emission regulations (LEV for A/T, TLEV for A/T) for all 50
states.
Overall engine weight is kept to a minimum by the use of a die-cast aluminum
engine block, aluminum cylinder heads and magnesium alloys in the valve covers. The
engine features a 75-degree cylinder bank layout, which provides a compact, lightweight,
high strength engine block. The cylinder heads are an aluminum alloy with pent-roof
combustion chamber design. To make the engine even more compact and lightweight the
valve angle has been reduced to 19', 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, reducing air-intake temperature and increasing
performance. In addition, valve lift and timing have been optimized to improve torque at
low and intermediate speeds.
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The engine's induction system is a major contributor to the engine's efficiency.
Engine power is improved through a combination of high-flow straight configuration
cylinder heads, and an intake system featuring variable length air-intake ports. This
computer-controlled system employs a valve that shunts the incoming air through either
short or long tubes, depending on engine speed. At engine speeds up to 3600 rpm the
valve, activated by a solenoid, closes. This diverts the incoming air into the long tubes,
providing high torque at low and intermediate engine speeds. Above 3600 rpm, the
solenoid turns off, opening the valve and effectively shortens the intake length thereby
providing higher torque at high speeds. Adding a little flash to the engine bay designers
added a restyled induction cover to the top of the engine. The air intake duct is located in
the left-front wheel well. This design boosts performance by directing cooler air into the
engine. Duct design and remote air-filter prevent ingestion of moisture and dirt into the
engine.
Isuzu Motors Ltd. 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 grooved bearings for connecting rods and
main bearings and combined with Isuzu's direct valve actuation system, results in higher
performance and improved fuel efficiency.
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The ignition system is a very sophisticated design utilizing technology borrowed
from Formula- I racing. The system utilizes an igniter to operate a transistor that is built
into the plug-top coils of each of the cylinders. This provides improved ignition
performance and eliminates the need for a conventional ignition control module and
ignition wires. Platinum-tipped spark plugs with a service life of 100,000 miles greatly
extend reliability and service intervals. Closing out the low maintenance, low life factors
is a fully stainless steel exhaust system.
Isuzu's in-line four-cylinder engine, standard on the Rodeo S 2VVD model, is a
2.2-liter, DOHC, 16-valve design, developing 130 hp @ 5200 rpm along with 144 ft. lb.
torque at 4000 rpm. Its high-compression, pent-roof, center-plug combustion chambers
are fed fuel through sequential multi-point fuel injection and fired by a direct ignition
system, providing excellent power and fuel economy.
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Engine vibration and noise are suppressed through a combination of balance
shafts, electric cooling fan with an electronic control module, and an ignition knock
sensor system. A serpentine belt and platinum plugs help stretch time between
maintenance intervals and extend engine service life. As with the V6 low maintenance
and long life are assured by a stainless steel exhaust system.
Rodeo's transmission choices have undergone a number of changes for 2000.
Standard issue in both the S and LS, regardless of engine choice, is a five-speed manual
transmission. The 4-cylinder S is available with a manual transmission only and receives
a new Isuzu MUA transmission for the task. Rodeo S and LS can be outfitted with an
optional electronically controlled four-speed automatic. The LSE has the four speed
automatic as standard equipment. The automatic transmission features a driver selectable
control system with normal, power, and winter operating modes. The power mode raises
the transmissions up-shift points allowing the engine to rev slightly farther up its peak
power range thus providing improved acceleration. The winter mode redirects the
transmission to start in third gear reducing the torque delivered to the wheels and
preventing wheelspin and loss of traction on slippery surfaces.
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Rodeo features an electronic shift-on-the-fly 4-wheel drive system. Operated by a
dash-mounted switch, the system allows the driver to shift the vehicle into
4WD-high at
the touch of a button and at road speeds up to 60 mph. The system includes a "retrial"
feature to overcome any engagement delay (some blockage in the system). After 1.5
seconds, the transfer motor will reverse its rotation for 1.2 seconds and then re-engage the
transfer gears. If engagement is not successful after three automatic attempts, the system
is overridden and the 4WD-indicator lamp on the dashboard will blink to alert the driver
to the situation. In keeping with the true 4WD heritage, a floor-mounted gear lever has
been retained to make the change from 4WD-high to 4WD-low. For additional safety, an
instrument panel warning light activates when the ignition is turned on to advise the
driver of an incompatible drive selection. The transfer process is automatically
interrupted should the manual gear selection not agree with the electronic 4WD
engagement or release,
Isuzu's Concierge desk staff contact retail customers within 30-60 days of leasing
or purchasing a Rodeo. The Concierge staff will confirm these customers are satisfied
with the product, explain vehicle equipment, warranty coverage, and, if needed,
maintenance issues; even set appointments with their dealers if there is an issue that
needs attention.
The Concierge will also arrange towing as needed to an Isuzu dealer or for
alternate transportation if called for, as well as resolve basic customer vehicle concerns
and coordinate assistance to customer through the Owners Relations staff.
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