Quote Originally Posted by Y33TREKker

they'll get no further credit from me for building it when some intrigued passerby (possible future Isuzu purchaser?) asks me what it is.
I can certainly understand that sentiment, but my personal disappointment is with Isuzu America. Yes, Isuzu the parent has some to do with the sad state of affairs of their operations here but without getting into the fine print much is due to the manipulations of General Motors. The relationship that Isuzu entered into with GM back in the 70's doomed them in the American market from the outset.

We in America get the poorest vehicular offerings on the planet, courtesy of taxes and restrictions designed to prop-up our failing domestic auto industry. If we had access and experience with what's available in other domestic markets Detroit would've filed bankruptcy long ago. Ironically, many of these vehicles are produced by the international divisions of our own sub-par car crafters who continually lose domestic market share and post continual quarterly losses.

However, as an international manufacturer Isuzu is really quite amazing with a rich history of innovations and trend-setting. Many are totally unaware of how imitated several Isuzu designs are in many mainstream vehicles, especially interior design and layout. When they get interested in something unique they usually do it rather than just mock-it up, which only recently has been attempted by US manufacturers beginning with Chrysler. They are also the producer of the worlds best diesel engines, which is one reason why their gas powerplants are built so well.

Personally I'm very happy knowing who built my VX and why, but the complete failure of this country's extension of that background merits a bit more understanding. If someone asked me about purchasing an Isuzu today, I'd encourage them just as much as I would have 20 years ago but not without explaining what a "real" Isuzu is and what the future may hold in regards to factory service.

Caveat emptor? Very much so.