1991 Isuzu Trooper 2.6

Summary:

A cheap Tank

Faults:

Power steering seal went shortly after purchase.

Clutch went just after 100000 miles.

Fuel injector ditto.

General Comments:

Me and a friend bought this car in LA because it was the cheapest 4x4 we could find $1800! We then drove it 6000 miles in two months to Costa Rica.

It performed amazingly through 100 degree deserts, up muddy mountains and through rivers.

The clutch finally went, but after 100,000 miles, not bad I suppose.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 25th November, 2005

1991 Isuzu Trooper 2.8TD

Summary:

Cheap to buy, cheap (ish) to run, I've not enjoyed driving a vehicle so much in years

Faults:

Had an alarming noise from the diff (I've had front wheel drive cars for 20 yrs so this was guesswork) which an oil change (£18) sorted.

General Comments:

I've never owned a 4x4 before and only bought this because I desperately needed something which would transport my family of five and camping equipment.

Being the basic model, equipment is spartan - it's got everything you need, but absolutely no more!

Seats are upright like padded dining chairs and therefore comfortable, the high viewpoint and lots of glass all round also makes it a doddle to drive.

Performance on road is bus-like - you learn to be patient - hills are a problem due to the tall gearing between 2nd and 3rd, you have to change up much higher up the rev band so the turbo cuts in in 3rd, but off road it's a dream taking the steepest slopes and the muddiest fields in it's stride.

Running costs are surprisingly low, I get at least 25mpg around town and 30+ on a run even full and with loaded roof bars.

Decent tyres can be fitted for as little as £65, although I have not needed to change tyres so far.

It's very important to have it serviced regularly (e.g. engine oil change every 4000 miles or so to protect the turbo) but I've found that going to a good independent garage it's no more expensive than running a big car.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 6th June, 2004

21st Apr 2005, 14:16

I have a 1991 Trooper V6. I am the third owner. The engine and transmission (including the transfer case) was rebuilt at 225,000 miles. It was not needed because there were no problems. It was done as preventative maintenance. All of the 1984-1991 Troopers are bullet proof if not abused. Even if abused, you are best advised to buy and rebuild. You can’t find a more dependable 4x4 … and if you look at it in profile, then it looks similar to a Mercedes G Class without the Trooper’s more unique and utilitarian split rear doors.