HSV Jackaroo

Isuzu Trooper

Company type	Product
Industry	Automotive
Founded	September 1981 (1981-09)
Defunct	September 2002 (2002-09)
Products	Full-size SUV

The Isuzu Trooper is a Full-size SUV manufactured by Isuzu from September 1981 until September 2002, spanning two distinct generations: the first generation ran from 1981 to 1991, followed by the second generation (UBS) from 1991 through 2002, which received a mid-cycle update in 1998. The original Trooper was derived from Isuzu's inaugural Faster/Chevrolet LUV pickup platform.

In its domestic market, Japan, the vehicle was sold as the Isuzu Bighorn, while internationally it was marketed under numerous names such as Acura SLX in the United States, Chevrolet Trooper, Subaru Bighorn, SsangYong Korando Family, Honda Horizon, Opel Monterey, Vauxhall Monterey, Holden Jackaroo, and Holden Monterey.

Within the U.S. market, the first generation initially appeared only as a two-door variant, labeled the Trooper II to circumvent the 25% Chicken Tax imposed on two-door trucks. The "II" designation identified the truck model, while "I" was intended for a passenger version that Isuzu never introduced. The four-door models also carried the Trooper II badge.

At its launch, the Trooper featured a four-cylinder engine paired with a four-speed manual transmission and part-time four-wheel drive. Over time, enhancements such as air conditioning, power windows, and a V6 engine option were incorporated. The second generation expanded drivetrain options to include both two-wheel and four-wheel drive systems.

Primary rivals included vehicles like the Toyota Hilux Surf, Mitsubishi Pajero, and Nissan Terrano.

First generation (1981)

Debuting in September 1981, the initial Trooper generation was available as either a three-door wagon or a soft-top model equipped with independent front suspension. The soft-top variant experienced low sales and was discontinued early on. In Japan, it launched under the name "Isuzu Rodeo Bighorn," though the "Rodeo" portion was soon removed. Early engine options consisted of a 1.95-liter gasoline unit and a modest 2.2-liter diesel, both somewhat underpowered given the vehicle’s approximate weight. Four-wheel drive engagement was controlled by a three-position lever adjacent to the transmission and utilized Aisin manual-locking hubs alongside Isuzu’s automatic-locking hubs.

In 1983, Isuzu introduced a five-door version featuring an upgraded 2.3-liter 4ZD1 petrol engine delivering hp, equipped with a Kevlar timing belt and a larger carburetor. For a brief period in 1986, the U.S. market received a turbocharged 2.2-liter C223T diesel; however, it failed to gain popularity. By 1988, this engine was replaced by an enhanced 4ZE1 petrol unit, and in 1989 Isuzu added a GM-sourced 2.8-liter V6 until their proprietary V6 engines became available.

The 1987 mid-cycle refresh brought rectangular headlamps and introduced LS trim levels for five-door models. The subsequent 1988 update increased output of the 4ZD1 engine to hp and introduced a fuel-injected 2.6-liter I-TEC engine producing hp specifically for the U.S. market. Optional four-speed automatic transmissions were offered—Aisin A340H for four-cylinder variants and GM’s 4L30E for V6 models—while live rear axles and four-wheel disc brakes were standard from 1988 through 1991.

In export markets, inline-four diesel engines such as the C223, turbocharged C223T, and naturally aspirated or turbocharged 2.8-liter 4JB1 diesels were available during the late 1980s. Japan also saw a limited production run of approximately 100 "Bighorn Irmscher R" editions featuring German tuning modifications.

The turbocharged 2.8-liter diesel initially produced PS output comparable to that of the smaller C223T due to emission restrictions; later versions equipped with an intercooler increased power to PS.

In the United States, the short-wheelbase two-door Trooper RS was available exclusively in 1989 and came with a fuel-injected 2.6-liter inline-four engine, unique gearing ratios, and alloy wheels; both manual and automatic transmissions were offered.

Central American markets featured Troopers with removable roof panels and elevated ground clearance powered by Isuzu’s 2.8-liter turbo diesel engine. In Venezuela, locally assembled versions were sold as the Caribe 442, incorporating up to 35% domestically sourced components to comply with import requirements.

Chevrolet Trooper

In Indonesia, PT Garmak Motors assembled the vehicle locally and marketed it as the Chevrolet Trooper. Around 1987, a rear-wheel-drive variant named the Chevrolet Stallion was introduced, which combined the Trooper’s body with the chassis of the rear-wheel-drive Chevrolet LUV and featured a solid front axle. Furthermore, in the early 1980s, locally developed SUVs such as the Holden Lincah and Holden Raider—built on Isuzu pickup platforms with partial fiberglass body panels—were available in the market. The Chevrolet Trooper nameplate was also utilized across South America, with the exception of Venezuela.

Holden Jackaroo

In both Australia and New Zealand, the Trooper was sold under the Holden Jackaroo badge, a name inspired by a young Australian livestock worker. Meanwhile, in New Zealand, the standard Trooper was also retailed under Isuzu’s own branding.

Subaru Bighorn

Introduced in November 1988, the Subaru Bighorn came with an Irmscher trim and was exclusively powered by Isuzu’s 2.8-liter inline four-cylinder turbo diesel engine. It featured either a four-speed automatic or five-speed manual gearbox paired with part-time four-wheel drive. Production and sales of this model concluded in February 1992.

SsangYong Korando Family

Beginning licensed production of the Isuzu Trooper with unique bodywork in November 1988, SsangYong Motors marketed this version as the Korando Family (). The initial concept vehicle, KR-600, debuted at the 1984 Seoul International Trade Fair following development initiated by Keohwa Motors in 1982. After Keohwa’s acquisition by Dong-A Motors in 1984, development continued until SsangYong took over in 1987 and launched the Korando Family under its own brand. The name Korando is an acronym for Korea Can Do or Korea Can Do It, with alternative interpretations including Korea Land Over and Korean Land Dominator.

This model was primarily aimed at markets in South Korea, Southeast Asia, select European countries, and to a lesser degree South America. In Europe, it was originally sold as the SsangYong Family. Early versions retained the Trooper’s 2.2-liter diesel engine (referred to locally as "DC23"), but starting September 1991, Peugeot’s 2.5-liter XD3P diesel engine was adopted. From July 1991 onward, Isuzu’s fuel-injected 2.6-liter petrol engine became available as well. Upgrades included clear headlamp lenses, a chrome-finished radiator grille, and a five-speed manual transmission.

The New Korando Family () launched in August 1994 replaced earlier engines with a 2.3-liter Mercedes-Benz OM601 diesel powerplant. Subsequently, the SsangYong Korando ("New Korando") debuted in July 1996 as a successor to the KF model after its introduction at the 1995 Frankfurt Motor Show.

Mekong Star 4WD

The Mekong Star 4WD, also referred to as Mekong Stars-4WD, marked Mekong Auto’s inaugural model when introduced in 1992. It utilized a diesel engine and drivetrain sourced from Ssangyong and was assembled at Ho Chi Minh City’s Cuu Long Factory. Export activities reportedly commenced in 1993 targeting markets such as China and Japan.

By 1997, production numbers reached approximately 30,000 units; however, manufacturing ended that year due to component shortages following Ssangyong’s transition to producing the New Korando model.

Second generation (1991)

Launched in December 1991 for the 1992 model lineup, the Isuzu Trooper underwent a comprehensive redesign to become larger, more powerful, and positioned as a more premium offering. Initially, the model was available only as a long-wheelbase five-door, with a shorter three-door version introduced in March 1992. Engine choices included a SOHC or DOHC 3.2 L V6 gasoline powerplant, delivering outputs ranging from to . By 1996, some regions replaced the DOHC variant with a SOHC version.

The diesel lineup featured a robust intercooled turbocharged inline-four engine (4JG2) that produced up to and torque, highly regarded for towing capacity and fuel economy. Diesel variants were equipped with manual transmissions and part-time four-wheel drive systems, whereas petrol models offered optional automatic gearboxes and locking hubs. Post-1998, the older diesel engine was superseded by the "4JX1" 3.0 L unit, which also introduced an optional four-speed automatic transmission.

During this era, Isuzu collaborated with General Motors and Honda to produce rebadged versions of the Trooper marketed globally: Honda Horizon in Japan; Opel/Vauxhall Monterey across Europe and the UK; Holden Jackaroo and HSV Jackaroo in Australia; Acura SLX in North America; and Sanjiu Trooper in China.

A mid-cycle refresh in 1998 brought revised exterior elements such as a new grille, bumper, headlamps, and a rear body-colored spare tire cover. The Australasian and American versions upgraded to a DOHC 3.5 L V6 engine producing , while diesel options remained available in European and Asian markets.

Transmission options included the five-speed manual Aisin AR5 and an electronically controlled GM 4L30E four-speed automatic featuring selectable "power" and "winter" modes. From 2000 through 2002, "Grade Logic" technology was incorporated to facilitate automatic downshifting on steep inclines.

The suspension setup combined fully independent torsion bar front suspension with a multilink coil-sprung solid rear axle configuration.

While U.S. models were limited to five seats, seven-passenger arrangements were offered in other markets. Optional rear limited-slip differentials improved traction capabilities. The three-door RS variant was available in the U.S. only until 1995. Depending on trim level, cargo space ranged from to cubic feet.

The Trooper ceased U.S. sales in 2002, succeeded by the smaller Isuzu Axiom and the larger GM-produced Isuzu Ascender—a rebadged GMC Envoy. Production ended in Japan that same year as Isuzu withdrew from passenger vehicle manufacturing.

In April 2004, New Zealand authorities recalled Troopers produced during early years due to issues involving accelerator pedal sticking.

Between 2002 and 2005, the Philippine market offered a Skyroof Edition Trooper equipped with a durable 16-valve diesel engine paired with rear-wheel drive. This version included ABS brakes, limited-slip differential, leather upholstery, wood trim accents, a VCD entertainment system, and a power moonroof. It was later replaced by the Isuzu Alterra.

Acura SLX

The Acura SLX represented a rebadged Isuzu Trooper marketed by Honda’s Acura division in the United States from 1995 through 1999 (model years 1996–1999). It was eventually replaced by the Acura MDX in 2001.

This model lacked several Trooper features such as manual transmission options and certain engine variants. Between 1996 and 1997, it came equipped with either a 3.2-liter SOHC or DOHC V6 engine before switching to a 3.5-liter DOHC V6 for the 1998 model year. A redesigned front fascia debuted in 1998; however, sales remained sluggish partly due to unfavorable safety ratings from Consumer Reports citing rollover risks. Autotrader lists its safety rating at three stars with an initial price of $36,300.

In December 2019, Acura unveiled a restomodded version of the 1997 SLX featuring a modern turbocharged four-cylinder powertrain paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and SH-AWD system borrowed from the RDX at the Radwood event held in Orange County, California.

Holden Jackaroo/Monterey

In Australia, the UBS-series was introduced as the Holden Jackaroo in 1994, initially positioned as the premium V6 variant. Later on, the Monterey emerged as a distinct luxury model. In July 1993, Holden Special Vehicles launched the sporty HSV Jackaroo, followed by the Jackaroo SE. Production numbers included 79 units of the HSV Jackaroo and 234 of the Jackaroo SE, both featuring aesthetic enhancements and powered by a 3.2-liter SOHC petrol engine. The Jackaroo SE also offered optional HSV branding.

Both versions were subject to recalls by Holden due to defective earthing within the engine wiring harness, which posed a risk of unintended acceleration when idling.

V8 HSV Jackaroo

In 1996, HSV explored fitting a 5.0L Holden V8 into the Jackaroo and Rodeo models but ultimately shelved the idea due to concerns about it potentially reducing SS Commodore sales. This initiative remained at the concept phase without progressing further.

Holden Jack8 Concept

To commemorate the Jackaroo's 20th anniversary in 2001, Holden unveiled the Jack8 concept, showcasing extensive modifications influenced by V8 desert racing vehicles. Presented at Melbourne's National 4x4 Show, it featured an open-top design, lengthened doors, a 50mm body lift, reinforced suspension components, Mickey Thompson Baja Claw tires, and a Gen III 5.7L V8 powerplant.

Inside, upgrades included Monaro-inspired bucket seats, high-end audio equipment, and advanced GPS navigation. Although fully functional and road-registered in Victoria, the Jack8 did not significantly impact sales figures. The Jackaroo line was discontinued in 2003, succeeded by the AWD Commodore-based Adventra. The Jack8 remains preserved within the Holden Heritage Collection as a testament to Holden’s innovative design efforts.

Honda Horizon

The Honda Horizon was marketed in Japan with either a 3.2-liter V6 petrol engine or a 3.1-liter turbocharged diesel. On March 19, 1998, it received an update featuring a direct-injection 3.0-liter engine delivering , noted for quieter operation and cleaner emissions. The model was available from 1994 through 1999. Its primary distinction from the Trooper/Big Horn was its five-door body style compared to their three-door configuration. Trim levels included Lotus and SE options.

Opel/Vauxhall Monterey

In Europe, from 1992 until 1999, the Trooper/Big Horn was sold under the Opel Monterey badge. A minor facelift in 1996 introduced a honeycomb-style grille and dual airbags. A more comprehensive update came in 1998 with revised diesel engines and styling changes consistent with global Trooper/Bighorn revisions. The Monterey nameplate was retired in 1999; however, sales persisted under Isuzu branding as the Trooper until 2003.

Between 1994 and 1998, the UK market received this vehicle as the Vauxhall Monterey, identical to its Opel counterpart but experienced poor sales performance and was discontinued a year earlier than in Europe.

Subaru Bighorn

Subaru offered the Subaru Bighorn starting in 1992, equipped with either a 3.2-liter V6 petrol engine or a 3.1-liter inline-four turbodiesel engine paired with four-speed automatic or five-speed manual transmissions. Sales ended by mid-1994 when Subaru’s OEM agreement with Isuzu concluded. The final iteration called "Long Handling by Lotus" was available with both transmission types (turbodiesel only), highlighting Lotus’s contribution to transmission development as noted by Subaru.

Rollover controversy

The second-generation Isuzu Trooper encountered unfavorable coverage in the U.S. media when models from 1995 to 1997 were classified as "Not Acceptable" by Consumer Reports due to alleged rollover hazards. After Consumers Union submitted a petition, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) conducted an evaluation and determined there was no defect that justified a recall. Isuzu argued that the magazine's assessment negatively impacted Trooper sales.

Following the NHTSA's conclusion, Isuzu initiated a $242 million lawsuit against Consumers Union, claiming that Consumer Reports applied steering maneuvers exceeding normal driver capabilities during their testing. The judge designated Isuzu as a public figure because of its extensive public relations efforts, thereby imposing a higher threshold for defamation claims requiring "clear and convincing evidence."

The jury identified eight out of seventeen contested statements as false, with one instance demonstrating Consumer Reports acted with "reckless disregard" for accuracy; however, they determined Isuzu did not suffer any actual damages. Two jurors believed the publication did not intentionally disseminate false information in seven other statements. As a result, Isuzu was not awarded any financial compensation.

Isuzu estimated the financial impact of the report at $244 million. With the dismissal of the case, the court mandated that Isuzu cover Consumers Union's reasonable defense expenses, excluding legal fees.

Motorsport

• 1989: The Jackaroo SWB triumphed in the Marathon category of the Australian Safari, piloted by Peter Lockhart.
• 1992: The Trooper achieved a class win at the Australian Safari.
• 1993: Troopers secured both first and second places in their class during the Australian Safari.
• 1994: The Trooper claimed victory in the Marathon division at the Paris–Dakar Rally, finishing 12th overall, and also won its class at the Rallye des Pharaons.
• 1995–1997: The Holden Jackaroo was employed as the official Safety Car for the Bathurst 1000, appreciated for its elevated driving position and stable handling despite its off-road build.
• 1996: Bruce Garland drove the Holden Jackaroo to first place in the Australian Safari.
• 1998: The Holden Jackaroo took both first and second positions in the Round Australia Trial (Playstation Rally), with Wayne Webster and Harry Suzuki winning overall and Peter Brock securing victory in the Production class.
• 1999–2002: Frequently driven by Bruce Garland (and Harry Suzuki in 2002), the Holden Jackaroo consistently achieved first place finishes in the Australian Safari.

Naming conventions

• North America – Isuzu Trooper II (1983–1991), Isuzu Trooper (1991–2002); also marketed by Honda as Acura SLX (1996–2000)
• South America and Africa – Isuzu Trooper, Chevrolet Trooper
• Colombia – Chevrolet Trooper (1st Generation), Chevrolet Trooper 960 (2nd Generation)
• Venezuela – Caribe 442
• Asia – Isuzu Trooper; additionally sold as Chevrolet Trooper
• Japan – Isuzu Bighorn, Subaru Bighorn; Honda Horizon (comparable to Acura SLX, 1994–1999)
• Europe – Isuzu Trooper (1st & 2nd Generations), Vauxhall Monterey (UK, 1992–1998), Opel Monterey (Europe & Ireland, 1992–1999)
• New Zealand – Isuzu Bighorn, Isuzu Trooper, Holden Jackaroo, Holden Monterey
• Australia – Holden Jackaroo, Holden Monterey, Holden Special Vehicles Jackaroo