1999 Isuzu Wizard Aero review from Australia and New Zealand
"Terrific car flawed by unnecessary quality issues"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Shock absorbers.
ABS acts strangely over bumps.
General comments?
This car is Japanese domestic version of Opel/Vauxhall/Holden Frontera with 4JX1 (BigHorn) engine.
Excellent engine (which does however have long-term reliabilty issues, the subject of a factory recall) which propels the car very nicely for a diesel. It is surprisingly "clattery" for a modern diesel.
Build quality is disappointing with rattles and squeaks abounding, worsening since purchase due to poor local roads.
Comfort: the Tata was streets ahead for knee room and seats as well as general on-road poise.
Dust sealing seems poor.
Quite economical.
Switch gear is poor quality, badly placed and really old-fashioned.
Nice styling, especially in the rare "Aero" form like mine, although under the cute exterior it's somewhat primitive.
Despite negative comments, a fun car to drive, with a gutsy and relaxed engine, which when combined with an automatic gearbox, makes for a much less frenetic driving experience compared to the Tata. Pity Isuzu couldn't talk to Tata about the seats!
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| 2000 - Wizard LS 3.0 turbo diesel An excellent all rounder for on and off-road |
|
| Overall very good reliable vehicle |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model year | 1999 |
| Year of manufacture | 1999 |
| First year of ownership | 2004 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2004 |
| Engine and transmission | 3.0 turbo diesel Automatic |
| Performance marks | 9 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 8 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 6 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 8 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 8 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 90000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 93000 kilometres |
| Previous car | Tata Safari |
| Date of Entry | 26th December, 2004 |