Brilliant model. Wish it was still produced
Fuel pump, starter motor, front suspension bushes, all normal wear and tear.
Overall, a brilliant vehicle.
Clear coat loss top surfaces.
Excellent.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 27th August, 2021
Really solid, yet comfortable vehicle, which will take you anywhere you want to go!
This car runs like an absolute dream! I've frequently used this truck to haul heavy loads and it handles just like a car! I often use it off road and in four wheel drive, with great success! The short wheel base makes it an excellent choice for an off road vehicle, and is terrific for climbing over rugged terrain.
I haven't needed to install a lift kit as I would for other trucks, because it is already high enough! The only mod I have added was guards underneath to protect the drivetrain from damage when off road.
It is quiet, and comfortable, and for a car of its age, has a surprising number of comfort features like heated driver's seat and a really good air con system. It is really easy to handle on and off road, and even at high speeds! The switch which enables the driver to control the stability of the vehicle is a great feature.
It starts each time without a hassle, never overheats, and hasn't cost me anything!
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know
Review Date: 4th August, 2015
Absolutely a brilliant car, hopelessly under rated by the general motoring fraternity
The only real thing that gave trouble was a noisy turbo at 93000 km. I replaced this with a new one, and have had no trouble since.
The gearbox overheated while towing once, but after an oil cooler was fitted, have had no more trouble.
This would be the best vehicle I have ever owned. Comfortable, reliable, and a very good all round vehicle.
The car has been made to work, and most of the km driven have been towing kms pulling a 2 tonne caravan. The economy is not the best towing, but it is a small price to pay for the power and reliability of the vehicle. When not towing, the car is as economical as any other large heavy vehicle. It is not a speed machine, but will keep going all day long, quietly pulling any load.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know
Review Date: 27th November, 2011
That's what happens when you put a turbo in a truck... especially when towing.
If the car is looked after and the cooling system is in good shape, there is no reason why they can't go forever. Mine has 420,000km and only a slight shift flare into 3rd to show for it.
Most big rigs on the road have turbos and or superchargers, so "putting a turbo in a truck" works well if you ask those who know.
Yes, ours just overheated towing a medium size trailer with not that much on it. Ours has done 220,000 km. Also the turbo went about 20,000km ago (Jan 2015).
This is a fantastic machine. It is reliable and I am enjoying it.
Not true, turbos simply optimize an engine's efficiency; these 3.1 intercooled, turbo diesels really respond well to Lucas oil additives; it not only saves their lives, but extends them considerably, motor and trans.
Overheating is a common problem with these (especially places like the top of the Lindis Pass towing a caravan in summer!). It seems the cooling system is a bit light. Retrofitting a triple core radiator should fix the problem.
Yes the turbos do work well on trucks if you know how to use it.
Hi, I'm also looking to replace the engine and wondering if you bought your second hand motor on any site or shop? Also how much? Thanks.
1999 Isuzu Bighorn, auto tranny overheated towing a 2 tonne trailer, replaced at 129000 kms, would engage to drive and reverse only, no 2nd or third. Electronic tranny board fried, now OK again
14th Dec 2011, 02:00
We have a 1995 Bighorn, but it's just blown the motor at 181,000k's. We tow a 450mt Nomad caravan, and the BH has 'spat the dummy'. Anyone else had a similar problem?
We've managed to have the engine replaced with a second-hand motor, but are somewhat apprehensive about towing again. Anyone else had this problem? We kept the servicing up on the vehicle, but it still blew.