ON-ROAD, the Isuzu Trooper is no match for a Jeep or Land Rover discovery, but it’s not that bad, and off-road or as a towing machine, it’s right up there with the best.
I have a soft spot for this chunky Tonka toy because of its toughness, size and versatility, but because it’s not as fashionable as others, it’s cheaper.
Import to Britain stopped in 2003 and for the last years only a long wheelbase five door was available.
Engines are 3.2-litre V6 petrol and 3.0-litre four cylinder turbo diesel.
The V6 has great power - 174bhp up to ’98 and 211 after – with a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic gearbox.
But these have a gargantuan thirst and the diesel, which outsold the petrol 10 to 1, are a much better bet, giving an average 25mpg.
This is direct injection with 154bhp and performance is quite acceptable.
It’s not particularly civilised on the road, but then, by car standards, neither are many others.
Interior
Like most of the other heavyweight 4x4’s, the gearchange is notchy and slow, but the clutch is light and easy.
Light power steering takes care of the turns but doesn’t give much back in the way of roadfeel.
A third row of seats was optional in all long wheelbase versions.
FAST FACTS
Isuzu TrooperCO2 emissions: 273g/km
Price: Pay about £2,500 for an ’00 W-reg Standard, £3,600 for an ’01 51-reg Citation or £5,600 for an ’03 53 Insignia.
Mechanical: 154bhp, 3059cc, 4 cylinder diesel engine driving all four wheels via 5-speed manual gearbox.
Max speed: 99mph
0-62mph: 13.4 seconds
Combined mpg: 27
Insurance group: 13