Isuzu's VX-4 concept SUV.
The VX-4 interior.
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Shown at the North American International Auto Show, Isuzu expanded on its successful two-door VehiCROSS production SUV with its four-door concept version, the VX-4. The VX-4 features an all aluminum-alloy engine mated to a grade-sensing four-speed automatic transmission and a torque-on-demand (TOD) four-wheel-drive system. The VX-4's engine is a 3.5-L, dual-overhead cam 24-valve V6 rated at 160 kW (215 hp) at 5400 rpm and 312 N•m (230 lb•ft) at 3000 rpm.
The TOD system, which was co-patented with Borg-Warner, senses road conditions and instantly balances drive torque front-to-rear for maximum traction. When combined with a high-quality limited-slip differential and four-wheel ABS, the TOD enables VX-4 drivers to maintain maximum control of the vehicle in various driving conditions.
Isuzu engineers augmented its rally-proven front double wishbone and rear four-link coil suspension with expansion-chambered-equipped shocks made from 6061-T6 extruded aluminum. This design controls cavitation and heat fading that most shocks experience during high-energy driving.
The VX-4's interior features leather-trimmed power Recaro Sport seats with a heating and cooling system and adjustable lumbar support for the driver and front passenger. Positioned in the center of the dashboard is a 16.5-cm (6.5-in) touch sensitive color monitor for a "back-eye" rear-view camera, information controls, and entertainment viewing.
Frank Bokulich
AEI March 2000
