True to life - 2002 Isuzu Trooper SUV
Looking for a real SUV for everyday work -- hauling people and cargo -- without being worried about messing up that "luxury" vehicle? Consider the Isuzu Trooper. This vehicle is based on a straightforward layout that puts the "Utility" in Sport Utility Vehicle.
This SUV is designed for the "real" world -- a box section, ladder type frame provides the Isuzu SUV with a solid foundation featuring seven crossmembers. This sport utility is no wimp. For over 15 years, the Trooper has developed a sterling reputation for delivering rugged, yet refined performance and luxury -- on road or off.
In the demands of day to day activities, the Trooper is just that -- big and solid enough to facilitate the accomplishment of everyday tasks -- yet nimble and easy to drive so driving does not become an ugly chore.
Available in S, LS and Limited models, two- or four-wheel drive, the large SUV is manufactured by Isuzu in their Fujisawa, Japan, assembly plant. A brawny 3.5L 24-valve DOHC V-6 bolted to a four-speed automatic transmission with grade sensing logic, is the only powertrain offered. The gearbox also features power and winter operating modes.
Four-wheel drive models are equipped with limited slip differential and Isuzu's Torque-On-Demand (TOD) system. TOD distributes power to the front and rear axles depending on traction conditions, giving the vehicle on-demand all-wheel drive.
On the road, the Trooper is solid and responsive. It is easy to drive. A front independent double-wishbone suspension consists of A-shaped lower arm with a torsion bar, coil springs and a stabilizer bar. The rear suspension uses a four-link configuration with coil springs and stabilizer bar. Four direct double acting shock absorbers hold down the four corners. P245/70R16 tires keep the big Isuzu connected to terra firma.
Inside the cabin, the Trooper has a very spacious passenger cabin. The driver enjoys a high seating position, yet entry and exit are easy. All passenger positions feature hand grips -- with the rear seating access having two hand grips, each to make vehicle access effortless.
Displays and controls are tried and true -- well placed and easy to use. Seating is comfortable with plenty of room for rear seat passengers. The cargo area is huge and square. A 70/30 percent two-door setup is the access to the cargo area from the rear of the vehicle. The Trooper has 46.3 cu. ft. of rear cargo space. With the 60/40 rear seat folded down, the Isuzu provides 90.2 cu ft of cargo space.
Ratings & specifications
Engine performance numbers are 215 hp at 5,400 rpm and 230 lbs-ft of torque at 3,000 rpm. EPA fuel economy figures are 15 city/19 highway using regular unleaded gasoline. Underhood fluids are easy to reach. Properly equipped, the Isuzu Trooper can haul a maximum payload of 1,055 pounds and has a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds.
Standard safety/security equipment includes the following: alarm system, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, remote keyless entry, side-impact door beams, dual front airbags, full size spare tire, front/rear tow hooks, fuel tank and radiator skid plates. Four-wheel drive models add limited slip differential and transfer case skid plate. LS adds fog lamps.
The base Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2002 Isuzu Trooper SUV starts at $28,105 for the two-wheel drive S up to $36,660 for the four-wheel drive Limited. Destination charges add $610.
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