Holden Rodeo
| Company type | Product |
|---|---|
| Industry | Automotive |
| Predecessor | Chevrolet LUV, Isuzu LUV |
| Founded | 1980 |
Area served | Australasia |
| Products | Utility vehicle (pickup truck) |
| Parent | Holden (General Motors) |
The Holden Rodeo is a utility vehicle (pickup truck) marketed in Australasia by Holden. Launched in 1980, it was manufactured by Isuzu through three distinct generations.
History
Prior to the introduction of the Holden Rodeo, Holden imported the first-generation Japanese-market Isuzu Faster under the names Chevrolet LUV (1972–1977) and Isuzu LUV (1977–1980). When the second-generation Faster was released in Australasia in December 1980, Holden renamed it as the initial KB series Holden Rodeo.
In Japan, Isuzu unveiled a redesigned Faster in May 1988, which Holden adopted in August 1988 as the second generation TF series Rodeo. This TF model experienced multiple updates: the R7 facelift in 1997 brought a redesigned bonnet and grille and marked the final use of chrome bumpers; in 1998, the R9 update replaced chrome with plastic bumpers and introduced a V6 engine, increasing its market competitiveness. Safety enhancements included an optional driver's airbag added in 2000. Further revisions in 2001 modernized the tail lights and headlights, while in 2002, the grille design was altered to feature a circular Holden emblem rather than lettering.
The 4JB1T turbo diesel engine gained popularity due to its fuel economy despite having rough idling characteristics and complied with Euro 2 emission standards by the end of the R9 production run. Subsequently, the more powerful 4JH1 diesel engine was introduced and eventually became the exclusive diesel choice for the third generation as emission regulations tightened.
Although Japanese sales of the Isuzu Faster ceased in October 1994, manufacturing persisted until June 2003. Exports then commenced for its Thai-built successor, the Isuzu D-Max, which debuted in Thailand in May 2002. The third generation RA series Holden Rodeo arrived in Australasia in March 2003, succeeding the long-standing TF model.
Holden continued to market the RA generation until July 2008, when it transitioned to selling the vehicle under the Holden Colorado name after losing rights to use the Rodeo badge following General Motors' separation from Isuzu.
Bibliography
- Bebbington, Terry (2009). 60 Years of Holden. Padstow, New South Wales: Haynes Manuals. ISBN 1-876953-58-6