The Isuzu Trooper, an import sport utility vehicle, has been substantially upgraded and improved for the 1990 model year. Refine ments are both apparent and subtle, combining to offer the sport utility buyer outstanding value and impressive, reliable performance - on or off-road.
Perhaps most significant is the availability of air conditioning and V6 power in all four-door Trooper models. The 2.8-liter, 60 degree V6 engine features a cast iron block and cylinder heads, durable five main bearing crankshaft, throttle body fuel injection and transistorized ignition system.Weighing only slightly more than Isuzu's 2.6-liter four cylinder, the V6 motor develops 120 horsepower and 150 ft/lbs. of torque, giving the Trooper all-around driveability regardless of weather, terrain or load.
While the Trooper's rear bumper has long featured a trailer hitch cut-out, 1990 sees the mid-year introduction of Isuzu's original equipment towing package. Consisting of a rear frame reinforcement assembly and engine oil cooler, the towing option allows the Trooper to boast Class II, or 3,500 lbs., towing capacity.
Available transmissions include a 5-speed manual or an electronically controlled 4-speed automatic overdrive that features economy and performance drive modes. Isuzu's smooth shifting automatic is now available in V6-powered models.
For 1990, automatic locking hubs are standard equipment on every four-door Trooper. Every Trooper is equipped with a two-speed transfer case. Once the 4x4 transfer case level is engaged, the Trooper's four-wheel drive system may be activated without coming to a complete stop. Easy-to-read dash indicator and separate shift lever allow for simple four-wheel drive engagement and confirmation, each providing wet weather or rough terrain driving assurance.
With engine and transmission upgrades complete, Isuzu turned its attention to overall vehicle handling and stability. The front suspension features an independent double wishbone design combined with torsion bars and a 1.13-inch diameter horizontal stabilizer. The rear suspension comprises semi-elliptical two-stage leaf springs supporting a semi-floating banjo-type axle. Staggered double-acting gas-filled shock absorbers complete the rear assembly.
Variable assist power steering, which automatically adjusts steering effort to engine speed, continues to be standard. This often unnoticed feature allows more steering "power" with less effort at low speeds, such as when parking or off-roading, and less at higher speeds.
The significance is clearly understood when aware of the Trooper's hefty wheel and tire components. All-weather P235/75R-15 radials are standard, while an even larger 31.0X10.5R15 tire is optional. Mounted to optional 15-inch aluminum alloy or standard steel wheels, the Trooper's "go-anywhere" ability and overall ride quality are enhanced by its original equipment and snow rated tires.
Four-wheel disc brakes are standard on every Trooper and feature self-adjustment and audible wear sensors. For 1990 the 10.1-inch diameter front discs are vented, while the larger rear discs are solid.
Other hard-to-see benefits on every Trooper are radiator, fuel tank and transfer case/transmission skid plates. This undercarriage armor protects vital equipment from road debris and hidden off-road hazards.