Positioning:
The Isuzu VehiCROSS was a niche, limited-production, compact SUV renowned for its radical styling and capable off-road performance, appealing to a distinct buyer seeking individuality and ruggedness.
Competitors:
Competed in a unique segment, but shared market space with vehicles like the Jeep Cherokee, Toyota RAV4 (higher trims), and early iterations of compact SUVs focusing on sport and capability.
Distinctive Design:
Unique asymmetrical body styling, prominent fender flares, body cladding, and rear-mounted spare tire carrier.
Off Road Capability:
Advanced Torque-on-Demand (TOD) all-wheel-drive system, high ground clearance, robust chassis.
Interior Appointments:
Sporty bucket seats, unique dashboard layout, high-quality materials for its class.
Powertrain:
Engine, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Transmission (Torque-on-Demand AWD), Drivetrain
Chassis:
Suspension (Front Independent, Rear Solid Axle), Steering, Brakes (ABS), Wheels, Tires
Electrical:
Battery, Charging System, Starting System, Ignition System, Lighting, Instrumentation, HVAC Controls, Power Accessories, Body Control Module (BCM), Audio System
Body:
Body Panels, Doors, Glass, Seats, Interior Trim, Exterior Trim, Roof (including unique rear-mounted spare tire carrier)
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, lubrication, spark plug replacement, air filter service
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon issues, DTC code explanations and resolution paths
Repair Overhaul:
Engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, brake component replacement, suspension component replacement, steering system repair, electrical component repair
Special Procedures:
Torque-on-Demand (TOD) AWD system diagnosis and repair, body panel alignment, airbag system servicing, unique VehiCROSS features maintenance
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic preventative maintenance to complete vehicle teardown and rebuild, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.
Compatibility:
Compatible with all Windows and Mac operating systems.
Software Requirements:
Adobe Acrobat Reader and WinZip (or equivalent decompression software) required.
Readability:
High-resolution scans ensuring clear text, diagrams, and illustrations.
Binding:
N/A (Digital PDF Format)
Paper:
N/A (Digital PDF Format)
Engine Type:
6VD1 DOHC V6
Displacement:
3.5 Liters (3494 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
93.4 mm x 85.0 mm
Horsepower:
205 hp @ 5400 rpm (for North American models)
Torque:
234 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm (for North American models)
Induction:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended)
ECU:
Isuzu Electronic Control Unit (ECU)
Transmission Type:
4-speed automatic with Torque-on-Demand (TOD) All-Wheel Drive
Transmission Options:
No manual transmission option available for these model years.
Tod System:
Automatically distributes torque between front and rear axles based on driving conditions.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron III (or equivalent) automatic transmission fluid.
NHTSA Frontal Driver:
Not extensively tested or rated under modern NHTSA standards for this era, but generally considered robust.
NHTSA Frontal Passenger:
Not extensively tested or rated under modern NHTSA standards for this era.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard on all models.
AWD:
Torque-on-Demand (TOD) All-Wheel Drive system enhances traction and stability.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants.
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system (availability may vary by specific production batch).
Audio System:
AM/FM stereo with CD player, auxiliary input (common upgrades found in aftermarket).
Display:
Basic digital or analog climate controls and instrument cluster; no central infotainment display in the modern sense.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control system.
Traction Control:
Torque-on-Demand (TOD) system acts as a form of traction control.
Connectivity Features:
Limited by modern standards; primarily relies on aftermarket solutions for enhanced connectivity.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 - 7,500 miles (5,000 - 12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for specifics).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km) or as recommended by the manual.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately 60,000 - 100,000 miles (96,000 - 160,000 km), depending on plug type.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic or Conventional API SG or higher.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 5.0 US quarts (4.7 Liters) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Isuzu Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC) or equivalent with 50/50 mix of antifreeze and distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 automotive brake fluid.
Engine Performance:
Occasional issues with crankshaft position sensors, oil leaks from valve covers or oil pan.
Electrical System:
Degradation of wiring harnesses over time, particularly in the engine bay; occasional issues with power window regulators and door lock actuators.
Suspension Steering:
Wear in ball joints and tie rod ends due to the vehicle's off-road capabilities and age; potential for minor exhaust system corrosion.
Tod System:
While generally robust, occasional electronic control unit (ECU) issues or actuator problems can occur; proper fluid maintenance is crucial.
Brand Legacy:
Isuzu, a Japanese manufacturer, has a long history in commercial vehicles, trucks, and SUVs, often focusing on durability and off-road capability (e.g., Trooper, Rodeo).
Predecessors:
While not a direct successor, it shared platform components with the Isuzu Rodeo and Trooper, but offered a far more distinctive and purpose-built design.
Development Purpose:
Developed as a concept vehicle and then brought to production to capture a segment of buyers looking for an avant-garde, capable SUV.
Production Years:
1997-2004 (globally), with North American sales focusing on 1999-2000.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
Off Road Awards:
Frequently praised by automotive publications for its unique styling and off-road prowess, often cited as a cult classic and capable adventure vehicle.
Design Acclaim:
Won numerous design awards and was featured in concept car shows, cementing its status as an automotive icon.
Safety Certifications:
Met all applicable US Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) for its model years.