2001 Isuzu Trooper Review
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By Phil Berg

Overview

2001 is Isuzu Motor Ltd's 85th year, and the company is marking the occasion with a special Polar White Pearl Anniversary Edition Trooper. Also for 2001, Isuzu has re-introduced a two-wheel-drive Trooper at every trim level.

All Troopers are big, smooth-riding, and highly capable sport-utility wagons. The basic Trooper S is priced among the Ford Explorer, Chevrolet Blazer, and Jeep Cherokee; while with all available equipment the Trooper Limited moves closer to the luxury-SUV range, along with the Mitsubishi Montero and Jeep Grand Cherokee.

Model Lineup

Three trim levels--S, LS and Limited-continue for 2001, although now each is offered with two- or four-wheel drive. All 2WD Troopers come with a four-speed automatic transmission, while the 4WD S ($27,620) model alone can be ordered with a five-speed manual gearbox. Regardless of trim, four-wheel-drive automatics feature Isuzu's full-time Torque-On-Demand (TOD) system.

All models are fitted with a 3.5-liter double overhead-cam V6 engine that produces 215 horsepower. All come standard with anti-lock four-wheel disc brakes, independent front suspension and a four-link rear axle, power steering, cruise control, dual front airbags, air conditioning and power everything else. A 2WD S starts at $27,170.

LS, for $28,765, adds an in-dash six-CD changer, fog lights, privacy glass, leather-wrapped steering wheel and color-keyed fender flares. Limited models (starting at $32,813) are distinguished from the outside by a handsome two-tone paint scheme and 12-spoke alloy wheels. Smooth leather seating surfaces tightly stretch over five large seats, and a large, powered glass moon roof includes a sun shade. Add an even $2,000 to the prices above for 4WD.

The Anniversary Edition, not yet priced at press time, includes all LS equipment plus 12-spoke alloy wheels with white-accented openings; beige leather and woodgrain trim for the interior; an eight-way driver's seat and four-way passenger seat; Nakamichi stereo; and beige heathered floor mats.