Welcome to the ISUPAGE; Isuzu Automotive Performance Tuning Page,
the oldest known and most comprehensive source of information on tuning,
hotrodding,
modifying, and customizing Isuzu automobiles. The following information has
been put together over many years and at great expense and torment.
Mission Statement
The ISUPAGE is dedicated to the free and open exchange of information
about Isuzu manufactured passenger automobiles. Including but not
limited to the
following: Impulse JR, Piazza JR, Impulse JI, Piazza JI, Asuna Sunfire,
GEO Storm, I-Mark PF, Gemini T Series, Opel Kadett C, I-Mark JT,
Gemini RB, Chevrolet Spectrum, Stylus JS, Gemini JS, Bellett, Bellel,
Aska and the Lotus Elan M100, which has an Isuzu engine and
transmission. The ISUPAGE is not dedicated to SUVs and Trucks, there is an
overwhelming abundance of source material for these, and the ISUPAGE
fills the void for Isuzu passenger vehicle information.
Isuzuperformance Racing Team Driver, Bill Luton, Wins St. Louis Region SCCA 2008 X Prepared Class
Championship
In a season long battle against a Lotus Elise SC (supercharged), the Isuzuperformance 1989 I-Mark RS
proved victorious. Impressive enough considering the I-Mark has been running a 1991 stock trim built
engine, meaning the Elise SC has almost double the horsepower. But even more so because the I-Mark
starting the season on a compeletely new coilover suspension, which was not properly dialed-in until
after the last points event of the season.
Isuzuperformance Racing Team Nascar Style I-Mark Rear Sway Bar
For 1985-89 Isuzu I-Mark JT, Gemini JT150 and JT190.
Modular style rear sway bar adapts Nascar technology to import cars. Can be configured for various
rates between 9.8 lb/in to 384 lb/in in 25 even steps. The bar pictured is 12.4% stiffer than the
largest OEM bar available. Not for sale to the public.
Isuzuperformance Racing Team Bellett Brake Disks, Pads, and Shoes
For 1964-73 Isuzu Bellett GT and GT-R.
OEM reproduction disks turned from 80-55-06 Ductile Iron billet provide better wear and friction
properties than original cast rotors. Performance pads feature modern ceramic carbon compound for
excellent initial bite while minimizing rotor wear, for hot street and autocross use. OEM
reproduction rear brake shoes feature modern organic metallic compound with high friction
coefficient. Not for sale to the public.
Isuzuperformance Racing Team AL Series Coilovers
For 1990-93 Isuzu Impulse, Stylus, Gemini, Piazza, Geo Storm, Asuna Sunfire,
and 1985-89 Isuzu I-Mark and Gemini.
32 position compression and 32 position rebound adjustment. Ultra light all aluminum
body with anodized finish. Threaded lower bracket. Not for sale to the public.
Isuzuperformance Racing Team Front Camber Plate
For 1990-93 Isuzu Impulse, Stylus, Gemini, Piazza, Geo Storm, Asuna Sunfire
All aluminum construction. Unique design allows the spring to support the weight
of the vehicle, not the damper piston. Not for sale to the public.
Isuzuperformance Racing Team Front Camber Plate
For 1985-89 Isuzu I-Mark and Gemini.
All aluminum construction. Unique design allows the spring to support the weight
of the vehicle, not the damper piston. Not for sale to the public.
Isuzuperformance Racing Team Ferro-Carbon Clutch Disk
For 1990-93 Isuzu Impulse, Stylus, Gemini, Piazza, Geo Storm, Asuna Sunfire,
and 1985-89 Isuzu I-Mark and Gemini.
Ferro-Carbon composite friction material has the grip of ceramic, the wear characteristic
of organic.
Not for sale to the public.
Isuzuperformance Racing Team Polyurethane Suspension Bushing Sets
For 1990-93 Isuzu Impulse, Piazza, Stylus, Gemini, Geo Storm, and Asuna Sunfire.
Front Wheel Drive and All Wheel Drive.
Set of 18 polyurethane bushings with stainless steel center sleeves, and steel front
lower control arm bracket. Replaces all 16 suspension bushings of the vehicle, and
includes alternate two rear spindle lower bushings for AWD cars. Not for sale to the public.
Isuzuperformance Racing Team Front Lower Control Arm Bushings
Left: OEM. Right: Isuzuperformance Racing Team.
For 1990-93 Isuzu Impulse, Piazza, Stylus, Gemini, Geo Storm, and Asuna Sunfire.
Steel bushing bracket with polyurethane bushing and stainless steel center sleeve.
Just one of the eighteen bushings that make up the Isuzuperformance Racing Team
Polyurethane Suspension Bushing Set. Not for sale to the public.
Isuzuperformance Racing Team Polyurethane Differential Carrier Bushings
For Isuzu Impulse RS AWD Turbo and Isuzu Gemini JT191S Sedan and Coupe. True, solid
polyurethane differential carrier bushings with stainless steel center sleeves. 65%
stiffer than OEM. Eliminates movement of the differential assembly and rear drivetrain
sending more power to the ground. Not for sale to the public.
Introducing the Isuzuperformance Racing Team Isuzu Gemini Irmscher-R
JT191S AWD Turbo Sedan
Look for this vehicle at Redline Time Attack events in the eastern half of the US.
Isuzuperformance Returned to Japan for the 2007 Isuzu Owners Meeting
Isuzuperformance returned to Japan on May 31, 2007 through June 15, 2007, to attend the
2007 Isuzu Owners Meeting / All Japan Isuzu Meeting. While in Japan, Isuzuperformance
attended Round 2 of the Japanese LeMans Series at Fuji Speedway, toured Aquarius Motorsports
outside Kyoto, toured the Toyota Headquarters, Museum, and Assembly Plant, visited Isuzu
owners in Hokkaido and aquired a 1991 Isuzu Gemini JT191S Sedan, attended the Isuzu car
show in Kuragari, visited Isuzu owners in Yokohama, and toured the Open Road shop outside
Yokohama.
Isuzuperformance Racing Team Polyurethane Engine Mount Bushings
For 1.6 liter Isuzu I-Mark RS and Isuzu Gemini JT190 with Manual Transmission. True, solid
polyurethane engine and transmission mount bushings with stainless steel center sleeves.
65% stiffer than OEM, 62% stiffer than OEM filled with silicone/urethane caulk. Eliminates
engine and transmission movement, wheel hop, and part throttle bucking, while putting
more power to the ground. Not for sale to the public.
Isuzuperformance Racing Team Polyurethane Engine Mount Bushings
For all 1.6 liter Isuzu Impulse, Isuzu Stylus, Geo Storm, and Isuzu Gemini JT191, with Manual
Transmission. FWD. True, solid polyurethane engine and transmission mount
bushings with stainless steel center sleeves. 65% stiffer than OEM, 62% stiffer than
OEM filled with silicone/urethane caulk. Eliminates engine and transmission movement,
wheel hop, and part throttle bucking, while putting more power to the ground. Not for sale to the public.
Isuzuperformance Racing Team Polyurethane Engine Mount Bushings
For all 1.6 liter Isuzu Impulse RS and Isuzu Gemini JT191S, with Manual
Transmission. AWD. True, solid polyurethane engine and transmission mount
bushings with stainless steel center sleeves. 65% stiffer than OEM, 62% stiffer than
OEM filled with silicone/urethane caulk. Eliminates engine and transmission movement,
wheel hop, and part throttle bucking, while putting more power to the ground. Not for sale to the public.
Isuzuperformance Racing Team Polyurethane Transfer Case Bushing and Bracket
For all 1.6 liter Isuzu Impulse RS and Isuzu Gemini JT191S, with Manual
Transmission. AWD. Solid polyurethane transfer case bushing shown with Isuzuperformance Racing Team
bushing bracket. This bracket is 20% stronger than the OEM bracket. Not for sale to the public.
Isuzuperformance Racing Team Four Wheel Big Brake Kit
The brake setup that the AWD Impulse RS and Gemini Irmscher-R should have come with.
11 inch front slotted vented composite rotor, 10.75 inch rear slotted solid composite
rotor. Wilwood Dynalite Forged 4 Piston Billet Aluminum Front Calipers. Specifically
designed to handle track use on 450+ HP vehicles weighing 2,700 pounds. Requires 15
inch or larger wheels. Not for sale to the public.
Isuzuperformance Racing Team Adjustable Cam Sprockets
Left, 1.6 liter Non-turbo. Right, 1.6 liter Turbo.
All 6061 T6 aluminum, 18% lighter than stock. CNC machined to more exacting
tolerances than even original gears. The outside ring is coal blasted before being
hard anodized. The coal blasting gives the gear a textured surface for the belt to
hold on to. The hard anodizing makes the outer ring incredibly durable. Inner ring
polished to a mirror finish and clear anodized. 24 degrees of adjustment. Four
stainless steel studs are used to lock the gear in place to prevent any slippage.
Lineup "peg" holes provided for ease of belt installation. Not for sale to the public.
Isuzuperformance Racing Team Underdrive Pulley Sets
Left, set of three for vehicles with power steering. Right, set of two for vehicles
with manual steering.
6061 T6 aluminum, polished to a mirror finish for beauty and anodized for
durability. Reduces rotating mass by 5.75 pounds. Accessory belts are
underdriven for further power gain. Crank pulley, power steering pulley, and
alternator pulley. Not for sale to the public.
Isuzuperformance Racing Team Rear Lower Tie Brace
Rear.
304 Stainless Steel. Completely eliminates flex in the rear suspension cross member. Not for sale to the public.
Isuzuperformance attended the 2006 Isuzu Owners Meeting on June 11, 2006. Highlights of the trip included
a visit to the Shrine at Ise, Suzuka Circuit, Mazda Museum and Assembly Plant in Hiroshima, Miyajima,
the Gerald Shop in Nagoya, Niimi Nankichi Memorial Museum, Handa City Library and Museum, Shiho Doll Museum,
Nissan Yokohama Engine Plant and Museum, Odaiba and Toyota Megaweb, Miraikan Museum, and the Meiji Shrine.
Below are excerpts from the Japanese coverage of the trip. For an account in English, follow the link above.
Isuzuperformance on track at Suzuka Circuit. Lap time: 3:32.
High Altitude Testing
May, 2004, the Isuzuperformance Racing Team conducts chassis and engine tuning tests
in a newly prepared 1991 Isuzu Stylus XS at Pike's Peak, Colorado, the site of the
"Race to the Clouds" Pike's Peak International Hill Climb, held annually in June.
No More Than Three Wheels Allowed To Touch The Ground At Any One Time
The Isuzuperformance Racing Team campaigns a 1989 Isuzu I-Mark RS in D Modified class
SCCA Autocross competition for the last half of the 2003 racing season. Driver Bill
Luton pushes the limit of both physics and common sense as the car actually lifts up
on two wheels, the inside front tire lifting clear of the pavement and spinning coming
out of corners. Driver quoted as saying "There's no more speed to be had out of it.
No one else is brave enough, or foolish enough, to drive this car that far over the edge."
2006 Isuzu Gemini Coupe?
In August of 2003, Isuzu released to the Japanese auto press, this rendered image of two
vehicles identified as "sports coupe(s)", in a very obvious attempt to test
the waters and see what public sentiments are toward a re entry of Isuzu in car making.
Here is a short time line to give an idea of the historic ramifications of this move by Isuzu:
1971, General Motors Corporation buys 32.4% of Isuzu and subcontracts them to make
Chevy Luv pickup trucks.
1981, against the direct protest of General Motors, Isuzu puts the Piazza and Impulse
into production, embarrassing GM because the newly redesigned Camaro and Trans Am pale in
comparison to the Giugiaro designed sports coupe. This begins GM's vendetta against
Isuzu.
1984, GM begins reselling rebadged Geminis under the Spectrum name, but, as a condition
of the arrangement, restricts Isuzu's rights to advertise their own cars in the US and
European markets and imposes quotas on the number of vehicles Isuzu can sell. This
effectively destroys any chance for Isuzu to build brand consciousness, brand loyalty, and
a reputation as a car builder, in all markets outside Japan.
GM imposed design changes on the Gemini and did not have the courtesy to ask the designer,
Giugiaro, for permission to make the changes to his design. Giugiaro took this as an insult
and not only refused to do any further work with Isuzu and GM, but for many years, he denied
having designed the Gemini.
1989, GM begins reselling rebadged Gemini Coupes under the Storm name. This vehicle
outsells GM's own domestically produced Cavalier, Sunbird, Corsica, and Beretta, combined,
causing great embarrassment for GM.
1994, GM discontinues their Storm model, eliminating close to 95% of Isuzu sales of cars
leaving Isuzu with weak name recognition and little hope of recovering from this financial
blow. This combines with the collapse of the Japanese economy after Isuzu went up market to
more luxurious and more expensive models with their 1990-93 redesign of their cars, and
Isuzu decided to discontinue car sales.
1994, Isuzu constructs a shrine to the much missed Gemini car in their Fujisawa
plant.
~1998, Isuzu attempts to purchase then financially troubled Nissan Motor Company in
order to acquire a name and a company to build passenger cars under.
1999, GM acquires 49% of Isuzu, controlling interest, but due to Japanese laws
restricting foreign ownership of Japanese corporations and Japanese labor laws which strictly
follow seniority, GM is unable to appoint an American to head Isuzu and must continue to
deal with Isuzu management's continued resistance to GM domination. GM is instead allowed to
install a non-voting "advisor" to the corporate board.
July, 2000, GM asks Suzuki, Isuzu, and Toyota, to rebadge and sell Chevrolet, Opel, and
Saturn small car models to increase global sales of those GM models. Suzuki and Isuzu
refuse. Toyota rebadges and sells the Chevrolet Cavalier as the Toyota Cavalier, with
very limited sucess, mostly only to fleet buyers (to delivery companies and for businesses
needing company cars). Saturn established its own vehicle distribution network. Acceptance
by the Japanese buying public is low, sales peaking at 1,300 units per year, due to poor
quality and value comparison to Toyota's domestic product, which is used by most as a
benchmark.
2001, Isuzu lays off 25% of their international work force due to financial losses and
ailing sales.
2002, Isuzu negotiates a $84 million debt restructure with it's Japanese bank and buys
37% ownership back from GM, reducing GM's ownership of Isuzu to 12%. GM's "advisor" on the
corporate board is replaced by a position filled by the Japanese bank, who is allowed a
vote. As part of the
restructuring, Isuzu sells the Lafayette, Indiana plant to Fuji Heavy Industries (Subaru),
withdrawing completely from their joint SUV venture with GM. The GM built Trailblazer
set to be rebadged as an Isuzu Ascender seems all but dead on arrival as Isuzu plans
for production of their own SUVs in Thailand.
2003, Isuzu finds itself in the enviable position of being one of only three commercial
truck producers in Japan who is selling diesel trucks that comply with the new, strict
emissions laws for the Tokyo metropolitan area, which require particle scrubbers for exhaust.
The law outlaws the use of trucks without these devices in and around the four prefectures
surrounding Tokyo, and as no aftermarket retrofit is available, truck operators are required
to buy new trucks. Mazda, unable to develop a commercial truck that complies with the new
emissions laws, subcontracts all it's commercial truck production to Isuzu. Isuzu leads
commercial truck sales in Japan and shows a profit for the first half of 2003 for the first
time in decades. Isuzu's stock showed a 400% increase in value (from 50 yen/share to 200
yen/share).
GM begins rebadging Isuzu Panther AUVs (Asian Utility Vehicle, or Far East Crossover Vehicle)
and selling them as the Chevrolet Tavera in Indonesia and India.
2003, Isuzu releases rendered images of what they call "a sports coupe" which is described
to be in the vane of such noted Isuzu cars as the Bellett 1600GTR and the Giugiaro designed 117
Coupe.
2003, Sources within American Isuzu Motors vehicle distribution (US market vehicle
distributor) indicate that
Isuzu intends to severe all ties with GM by 2007 (this can be confirmed on Isuzu's website in
their Three Year Business Plan which states one of its primary recapitalization goal as
"Retire GM's shareholding without consideration"), ending all joint ventures, rebadging,
parts sharing, and cooperative efforts and purchasing back all of the remaining 12%
of stock owned by GM. The Rodeo and Axiom (now made by Subaru at the Lafayette, Indiana
plant) will be discontinued at or shortly after the end of the 2004 model year. There will
be no serious effort to market the GM made Ascender through the 2005 and 2006 model years,
after which Isuzu's contract to sell that vehicle will end. Isuzu plans to introduce at
least two completely new models in late 2006, totally designed and manufactured by Isuzu
and with no ties to GM.
January 2004, Isuzu stock passes 235 Yen per share, a 470% increase since Spring
2003.
February 2004, Sources within American Isuzu Motors public relations and vehicle
development departments indicate that the replacement for the Isuzu Trooper will be built
on the Isuzu D-Max/Colorado platform in Thailand and that model should be introduced as a
2005 1/2 model year vehicle. Work continues on this vehicle within the Ceritos headquarters
of AIM where the vehicle is referred to in house simply as "the new Trooper". Current plans
are that the concept car for this vehicle will be introduced at the Detroit Auto Show and
later displayed at the Chicago Auto Show. Further plans are to introduce the Thailand made
D-Max pickup into the US market, also hopefully in 2006.
Isuzu's PR department was very proud to point out that the 250 HP 6VE1 V6 direct injection
engine has received accolades and awards from both Popular Science Magazine and Ward's
Automotive. Direct injection is seen as the future for gasoline engines to improve economy,
emissions, and power output, and Isuzu's engine has been held out as one of the best in the
industry. In addition to this, Isuzu plans to push diesel engine powered models in their
SUV lineup as an alternative to other manufacturer's hybrid vehicle offerings. Diesel
offers the same environmental benefits with power, drivability, range, and cost that is
comparable or favorable to gasoline. The problem is that the US market has not been exposed
to many of the better diesel powered vehicles which are almost indistinguishable from their
gasoline powered equivalents. The US market has seen mostly very tempermental and difficult
to drive, and the reputation of diesel powerplants has suffered in this market as a result
of this. General Motors, Ford, and Daimler/Chysler have already expanded their SUV and
pickup offerings with diesel offerings (to help them meet tightening CAFE standards) and
have begun marketing campaigns to improve the reputation of diesel power in the US, and
Isuzu plans to reap the benefits of these efforts by following the promotional campaigns
of the US manufacturers with their own campaign to reinforce diesel's improved reputation
and point out that Isuzu is the oldest, most experiences diesel manufacturer in the world,
offering better quality and higher performing diesel products at lower prices than the US
makers.
2005 is seen as the transition year between the old GM dominated Isuzu and the new Isuzu
that is free to build, sell, and advertise whatever, wherever, whenever, and in whatever
quantity they like. Getting past a tight year which their only offerings will be the
rebadged, GM made Ascender, will be the challenge, but they are already on track to
surpass their needed sales minimum in the US market by 20,000 units in this fiscal year.
The only remaining concern is that now that all decisions will be made by Isuzu in Japan,
the US office hopes to be allotted a large enough advertising budget to allow for a
serious promotional effort for what amounts to a reintroduction of the marque in the US
market.
Early April 2004, Isuzu stock passes 265 Yen per share, a 550% increase since Spring
2003.
Mid April 2004, Isuzu stock passes 310 Yen per share.
July 2004, Isuzu stock passes 323 Yen per share.
August 2004, Sources within Japan indicate that Isuzu Motors has announced, within
their domestic market, the introduction of the "D-Max Hi Lander" sport utility vehicle
(Trooper replacement) will be manufactured in Thailand and introduced in Thailand for the
2005 model year. This strategy introduces the SUV first into the market dominated by the
D-Max Pickup, that vehicle being the number one selling automobile in the large Thai market.
The Thai made D-Max Hi-Lander will then be introduced into the Japanese home market in
2006.
August 2004, Dutch shipping company TPG TNT Logistics wins a $48.25 Million contract to
pack and ship "car parts" from Isuzu plants around the world to assembly plants in Thailand.
Note the specific use of the phrase "car parts", quoted directly from the Reuters story, which
conspicously did not use the phrase "truck parts".
August 2004, Universal Motors Israel is in talks with "car maker Isuzu" Motors for
Central European sales and distribution rights. Again note Reuters use of the word "car"
and their specific omission of the word "truck". Also note that Isuzu is expanding their
distribution network.
September 2004, Isuzu reports to the Daily Yomiuri newspaper that they are now exporting
the D-Max Pickup to 60 countries outside Thailand and plan to increase that number to 100
countries over the next year. Production resumes at a second assembly plant outside
Bankock that will increase production from 240,000 to 320,000 units annually.
November 2-7, 2004, Isuzu displayed both its commercial and sport utility vehicles at the
"The 38th Tokyo Motor Show for Commercial & Barrier-free Vehicles". This was the Japanese debut
of the new 2005 Isuzu Crosswind Sportivo AUV, which forshadows the interoduction of the 2005
Isuzu Adventure Master midsized utility, that is expected to be the "Ford Everest Killer" in
the Southeast Asian Market. The Crosswind is made in the Philippines (the AM
will be also) and Isuzu punctuated this by displaying the vehicle flanked by two lovely
Filipino race queen models. Isuzu did not have a concept vehicle on display but did have
a guest speaker, "Ida-san" (this is the affectionate nick name that Isuzu enthusiasts use for
Isuzu Motors president Yoshinori Ida), who stated confidently that he expects Isuzu's prosperity to
continue and for Isuzu, in the coming years, to retake its position in the upper tier of
Japanese automakers. Isuzu also displayed it's handicap accessible Giga over the road truck.
Early November 2004, Isuzu stock hits 325 Yen per share, recovering from July's market
scare over oil prices more quickly than the majority of Japanese stocks.
Mid November 2004, Reuters, the Associated Press, and the Detroit Times all report that
GM's holding in Isuzu has been decreased from 12% in January of 2003 to 9% as of November
17, 2004.
November 16, 2004, Autoweek confirms what was reported in this very time line in February
of 2004 and also in 2003: As the stocks of the discontinued Rodeo and Axiom models run out,
Isuzu will expend minimal efforts marketing the GM made Ascender and wait out the end the
contract which obligates them to sell the vehicle, tightenning its belt and anticipating the
introduction of the Thai made pickup and mid and small size SUV replacements slated for
introduction in 2006. Autoweek's Kathy Jackson quotes Scott Lasher, Isuzu dealership owner
in Sacramento and Chip Letzgus, spokesman for American Isuzu Motors, in this somewhat late
in delivery, but always appreciated confirmation of what was reported here over nine months
earlier.
November 17, 2004, Mitsubishi Corp. (whose divisions include banking,
steel manufacturing, machinery manufacturing, etc.) purchases $90 million in preferred shares
of Isuzu stock, most likely from Mizuho Corporate Bank and other banks, making
Mitsubishi Corp. the second largest stake holder in Isuzu at around 8%. It is important to
note that Mitsubishi Motors, owned by Mitsubishi Corp., is one of only two Japanese automakers
currently operating in the red (the other is Subaru ["Subaru hopes the SUV (B9X) will help
it shake off the rust that has hampered sales in recent years", Philadelphia Business Journal;
"Subaru maker Fuji Heavy's H1 op profit down 15 pct", Reuters]). Mitsubishi has suffered due
to defect cover ups, lawsuits from accidents caused by defects, total loss of consumer
confidence in their products within Japan, loss of government contracts due to the same, being
banned from selling vehicles in the growing China market for the same, and an unrelated loss
of US sales due to record numbers of defaults on zero-down financing sales. Mitsubishi was
refused a bailout by Daimler and plans to rebadge Mitsubishi small cars as Nissans in Japan
fell through. Could Mitsubishi Corp.'s investment in Isuzu lead to a rebadging of Lancers
and Colts under the Isuzu name?
Mid November 2004, on November 17, Itochu Corp. trading house buys $67 million in
preferred shares of Isuzu stock, most likely from Mizuho Corporate Bank and other banks,
making it the third largest stake holder in Isuzu.
November 18, 2004, Isuzu released a new three year plan and revealed
that their half fiscal year profits had risen 44%, an increase of $105 million. Isuzu
released a new and more agressive three-year-plan, stating that their goals in the previous
plan of 2002 were already in sight. Increased production and expanding into new markets
were the main focus of the new plan, which means that we are very likely to see the D-Max and
the Mu-7 and Hi-Lander SUVs, based on the D-Max, in the US, as well as other passenger
offerings. Isuzu also announced a bold plan to
reduce capital by buying back $120 million in preferred shares. The size of such a stock
buy back plan suggests a further reduction of GM's holdings in Isuzu. On the news of the
profit announcement, new three-year-plan, and the plan to buy back the referred shares,
Isuzu's common stock bounced up 20 points.
Mid December, 2004, reports in the AP, Reuters, and Just-Auto.Com indicate that once Isuzu
executes the stock buy back and conversion of preferred shares to common shares, Mitsubishi
will supplant General Motors as the largest share holder in Isuzu with 11 percent, Itochu
will be third with 6 percent.
Mid December, 2004, Isuzu President Iide issued a public statement asking for reinvestment
by GM. Outside Isuzu, this appears to be an act of "aisatsu", a tradition calling for all
businessmen to visit their business contacts at other companies in the first days of January
of each New Year, in order to express how much they value continuing their business
relationships in the future, whether they want to continue a business relationship with the
individual or not. The timing of Mr. Iide's statement corresponds with the completion of the
previous fiscal year and beginning of the new fiscal year, and this has all the appearances
of an act of "aisatsu" and that Isuzu really doesn't want GM to own any more of their
shares. However, sources within Isuzu Motors public relations and vehicle
development departments see this more in the context that Isuzu is now on firm financial
footing, and is in the position of power to dictate the terms and conditions to an ailing GM,
seeking a financial agreement that would benefit Isuzu instead of the previous usurious
relationship dictated by GM.
January 2005, Isuzu Motors and Mitsubishi Corp. have sign an agreement with Malaysian
auto firm DRB-Hicom Bhd, who has been the distributor of Isuzu vehicles in the Malasian
market (second largest in Asia behind the Philipines) for 20 years. DRB will assemble the
Isuzu pickups, SUVs, and other "vehicles" in Pahang which it will then sell in Malasia. DRB
currently assembles vehicles for Audi, Volkswagen, Mitsubishi and Proton for the Malasian
market, and have a multitude of passenger car specific assembly lines that are a
significant asset to Isuzu for future passenger car (sedan or coupe) development and
manufacture.
February 2005, Isuzu secures a $2.89 Billion capitol investment from Japanese banks.
This shows a great deal of confidence from the Japanese financial institutions in the
current success of Isuzu and future outlook for the company.
February 2005, Sources within American Isuzu Motors public relations and vehicle
development departments indicate that Isuzu will not sell the MU-7 vehicle into the US.
They do not see enough potential sales volume by the time the vehicle could be certified
for importation.
The D-Max Pickup, will not be imported from Thailand due to continuation
of high import tariffs that were expected to be withdrawn or expire. The current political
situation in the US makes it unlikely that politicians would suggest the lifting of these
protectionist tariffs. Isuzu will rebadge the Colorado pickup (which Isuzu designed).
The question remains as to if Japanese sheet metal will be imported for the Isuzu model,
or if simple badge and grille changes are made to differentiate the models. Isuzu had also
considered rebadging the Equinox, but did not see the vehicle as fitting the current
direction of the company.
The sale of the Lafayette, Indiana assembly plant to Subaru (now being used to assemble the
B9 Tribeca), seems to have caused difficulties in the area of importation vs. domestic
assembly for US market sales. However, Isuzu's new partner, Mitsubishi, has announced that
they are looking for someone to buy their entire North American manufacturing operation...
The Trooper will not be imported to the US again until a new generation design is put into
production, but the current generation Trooper is enjoying such high sales volume in Asia
that plans for a redesign are not seen in the immediate future.
The new sister relationship with Mitsubishi has not been made clear yet, but is expected
to involve either shared raw material and OE supplier sources to reduce costs through higher
volume, or shared engineering and manufacturing of sister models (rebadging of Mitsubishi
passenger car models as Isuzus or development of shared platforms to be used by both
partners.
GM has begun marketing the Isuzu made V6 Diesel under its Duramax name in comparison to
less environmentally friendly offerings by Dodge/Cummins and Ford. This appears to foreshadow
an increase in the Isuzu made Duramax range to sell on the reputation of the well established
and respected 6.6 liter. We can expect to see the 3.0 liter I-4 Isuzu Diesel for small and
mid sized pickups and the 1.7 liter Isuzu Diesel in small cars like the Cobalt, under the
Duramax name in the near future.
Isuzu is now not only designing the complete line of GM Commercial Vehicle offerings, but has
now been put in charge of marketing the complete line itself, with no more GM involvement in
the commercial vehicle line.
Late March 2005, the Detroit News confirms that the MU-7 will not be imported to the US
market and the introduction of the 2006 model i-280 and i-350 model pickups, which will be
rebadged Chevrolet Colorado pickup. However, the Detroit News fails to credit the fact that
Isuzu designed and engineered the Colorado truck for GM, based on the D-Max design that Isuzu
was selling in Asia over a year before the Colorado hit the US market.
May 2005, Isuzu increases its ownership of the Chinese light truck maker Quiling Motors
from 7% to 20% by purchasing 325 million shares for approximately $87.36 million. This
represents a major expansion of Isuzu into the Chinese market.
May 2005, "Isuzu Motors sees record group profits on strong overseas sales". 2004 FY
profits rose 9.7 percent ($560 million), pretax profit up 12.1% ($854 million), and a 4.4%
rise in sales ($13.9 billion total). Isuzu announced it will resume paying dividends of
1.5 yen per share on its stock, for the first time in seven years. Consolidation of the
Thai sales unit and strong overseas sales is seen as the primary drive that brought these
favorable conditions.
May 2005, Isuzu stock surges on the announcement that they will redeem $481.2 million
worth of convertible bonds, 14 months ahead of their maturity. Goldman Sachs brokerage has
raised Isuzu Motor's rating from "In-Line" to "Outperform".
June 2005, General Motors stock is downgraded to "Junk Bond" status, as the company shows
a $1.1 Billion loss of sales, a loss of over one third in revenue in the first quarter of
2005. GM claims their pension obligation to retired workers is adding $1,500 to the cost of
each vehicle, and that at this time, each current employee is paying the pension of 2.5
retired workers. GM has responded by announcing that they will cut 25,000 jobs, eliminate
redundant vehicle models (Chevy, Pontiac, Buick, Cadillac, etc. rebadgings of the same
platform vehicle) and is now offering
"employee discount pricing" to all customers. So, further reduction of work force so that
each current employee is paying for 3.5 retired workers and selling vehicles at a further
loss is apparently the best way to improve the current death spiral the company is in. As
Isuzu is the only "GM Affiliate" that is currently showing a profit, is it much of a stretch
to expect that GM will ask Isuzu for a bail out and debt restructuring? Could we see Isuzu
own 20% of GM in the near future? How will Detroit like being told how to run their company
by the Japanese?
June 2005, MSNBC's Motley Fool, Rich Smith, states "Toyota wants to buy GM". He suggests
that GM CEO Rick Wagoner's recent trip to Toyota HQ at the Aichi Expo was not to discuss
sharing hybrid technology (which GM has none of to share), but rather to discuss a buyout.
Smith indicates that Toyota has enough cash on hand to buy all of GM's stock outright, just
as Daimler did when it acquired Chrysler.
July 2005, Isuzu recieves a contract to supply 150,000 of its super clean burning diesel
engines to GM for use in vehicles for the North American market.
Late July 2005, Isuzu stock passes 322 Yen per Share. At this time, Isuzu is the only
profitable "GM Affiliate".
End of August 2005, Isuzu stock passes 344 Yen per Share.
Beginning of September 2005, Isuzu stock passes 372 Yen per Share.
End of September 2005, Isuzu stock passes 438 Yen per Share.
In recent years, the Detroit International Auto Show has become increasingly irrelavent.
In 2005, the Chicago International Auto Show eclipsed the Detroit show as the largest,
approximately 1 1/2 times larger than the Detroit show. And other shows throughout the US
continue to surpass the features and amenities of the Detroit show. This has mostly to do
with the fact that Detroit show is held at the Detroit Civic Center, which is much smaller
than the newer convention centers in other cities, and is showing its age. Only American
manufacturers introduce new models at the Detroit show, Japanese manufacturers introduce
their new models at the Tokyo show and European manufacturers introduce their new models
at the Frankfurt show. Quite frankly, the American manufacturers are not introducing or
even manufacturing much that is very exciting, which only adds to the irrelavence of the
Detroit show. Isuzu is again at the forefront of the industry, in announcing that they
will not have a display at the Detroit show beginning in 2006, choosing to focus their
energies on more relavent North American shows.
After Isuzu made this announcement, Aston Martin announced that it would also skip the
Detroit show this year.
Beginning of October 2005, GM continues to divest itself of Japanese "partners",
when it sells all its stock in Subaru/Fuji Heavy Industries to Toyota. This, after
reducing its control of Isuzu from 37% in 2002 to their current minority share holder
status of about 8%. Or, perhaps it would be better to say that the Japanese are
divesting themselves of GM's boat anchor like negative influence, as their sales
continue a death spiral. Either way, it's good news for everyone except GM.
Beginning of October 2005, Isuzu stock passes 480 Yen per Share.
End of October, 2005, GM's yard sale continues. Reuters announced that GM will
sell its Australian and South African truck divisions to Isuzu. GM keeps selling
off pieces, and Japanese companies keep buying.
Beginning of November 2005, Isuzu stock hits 509 Yen per Share.
Middle of November 2005, Bloomberg News and the International Herald Tribune report
that General Motors Acceptance Corp. (GMAC) has announced it will sell off its real estate
assets in Japan, part of the $482 billion worth of assets that are to be sold off to cover
the mounting losses in GM's shrinking global sales.
In the same report, Bloomberg News and the International Herald Tribune confirmend
that GM's stake in Isuzu had been reduced to 8%, and that Isuzu announced that their
2006 FY profit forcast has been raised by 10% to $462 million. 2006 FY sales forecast
was raised to $13 billion. Non pickup truck sales are expected to double from 150,000
to 300,000 units. Mizuho Investors Securities has rated Isuzu's stock as "outperform"
(which is on the opposite end of the scale from GM's rating of "junk").
January 2006, Reuters reports that Isuzu reported a 12% increase in sales in 2005
and revised its 2006 sales expectation up to 7%. Isuzu also announced that it intends
to reinvest $260 Million of its profits into further advancing diesel technology.
On this news, Isuzu stock surged up 5.26% compared to the market average 2% increase over
the same time period. Reuters further confirmed that GM's holding in Isuzu has been
reduced to 8%.
March 2006, Bloomberg News and Reuters report that GM will sell off most of its
stake in Suzuki, as the GM yard sale of Japanese stock continues. GM will sell off
17% of its stock in Suzuki, reducing its ownership from 20% to 3%, and using the $2
billion to offset GM's mounting losses from shrinking sales.
In a related story, Reuters confirmed GM's stake in Isuzu has shrunk to 7.9%.
Mid March, 2006, Sources within American Isuzu Motors public relations indicate that
Isuzu has been concentrating on building up its commercial vehicle program, purchasing
General Motor's distribution networks in Mexico and Australia and merging American Isuzu
Motors Inc. with Isuzu Motors of America. The North American passenger vehicle
distribution program is now under the commercial vehicle and power train distribution
umbrella. This provides greater financial stability to the passenger vehicle program.
As emissions tighten in the US on marine engines and diesel tractor trailers, Isuzu
is positioning itself to be a major supplier of marine replacement engines (expected
legislation will prohibit rebuilding these engines) and power generator units which will
be required when tractor trailers are prohibited from idling with their engines running.
The Trooper has gone out of production and has been discontinued in its last market, the
UK. It's replacement is expected to be built on the D Max platform, possibly a larger
next generation MU-7 which would be too large to be a Rodeo replacement.
The I-280 and I-350 Pickup line will see the introduction of diesel engines next year,
specifically the 4JX1 3 liter inline four cylinder with variable valve timing and direct
injection, and the 4JA1 SOHC 2.5 liter non-turbo variant as well.
Isuzu Japan still seems to still be opperating under extremely an tight, famine mindset,
while the financial situation seems to have turned for the better, and the management
hasn't caught on yet. In addition to this, several within Isuzu have pointed out that
their passenger vehicle lineup will have to be more well rounded (Read: Include Cars).
One pointed out that Land Rover is the only company selling only SUVs, and Isuzu can
not expect to sell Troopers at Land Rover prices, which is the only way Land Rover
survives as a "SUV only" manufacturer.
Diesel technology is still seen as the future with rising gasoline prices. Hybrid
technology is seen as a short term fad, with Toyota selling these vehicles at dramatic
losses, and then absorbing the costs of expensive motor and battery replacements under
warranty, with the only goal being to establish Toyota as the leader in this technology.
Diesel engine usage in passenger vehicles is seen by Isuzu as a more permanent and
dependable alternative, as has been done so well by Audi, Mercedes, and even GM in
Europe. Remember, GM buys all those diesel engines from Isuzu, and Isuzu already
supplies all of the major components to build a car to GM and others, even the 4EE2 1.7
liter, DOHC, variable valve timing, direct injection, passenger car engine, as well
as numerous transmissions supplied for Chevrolet, Pontiac, Saturn, Opel, and Vauxhall.
Isuzu need only build their own body to accept all the pieces they already make for
other companies, and Japan's Oldest Car Maker will be back making cars.
March 29, 2006, Reuters reports that General Motors has notified Isuzu Motors of
GM's intent to sell it's remaining 7.9% stake in Isuzu. GM also stated they had
approached Mitsubishi Trading, Itochu, and Mizuho Corporate Bank as possible buyers. Isuzu stock surged up ten points on this news.
After GM announced it was selling off its stake in Suzuki earlier this month, GM denied
any plans to sell its dwindling stake in Isuzu. But as it turns out, GM's yard sale
of Japanese stock continues, to the benefit of all of the Japanese companies who finally
find themselves out from under GM's oppressive thumb.
April 11, 2006, Isuzu is now free of General Motors! In a Reuters story, GM
has stated that they are selling their remaining 7.9% stake as follows: 3.5% will be
purchased by Mitsubishi Corp., 3.5% will be purchased by Itochu Corp., and .9% will be
purchased by Mizuho Corporate Bank. GM will sell its 89 million shares for $300 million,
based on the average price of the stock in the last thirty days, which is 10% lower than
the current market value.
Mid May, 2006, Reuters reports that after shedding ties with GM, Isuzu reported a
4.0 percent rise in operating profit. Isuzu doubled its stock dividend payment to 3 Yen,
issued a forecast for next year's dividend payment to be 4 Yen, and stock surged up 4.7%
on this news.
Early November, 2006, Reuters reports that Toyota has announced that it will buy 100
million shares of Isuzu stock, a 6% stake in the company, as
part of a joint venture where Isuzu is to become the primary supplier of diesel engines for
Toyota's small and compact cars. Toyota is responding to pressure from Honda and others
who have recently expanded their small car strategies from hybrid only to also include
diesel offerings. Toyota will now be the third largest owner of Isuzu shares at 6%,
behind Mitsubishi Corp. with 9% and Itochu at 7%. Isuzu's shares surged up on the news by
12% by 56 yen per share. Sources in Japan cite this as the first sign of Isuzu's re entry
into the small car market, expecting that Isuzu will be selling rebadged versions of the
Toyota cars for which it is supplying engines.
Early November, 2006, Reuters and Nihon Keizai Shimbun reports that Isuzu will pull out
of its joint diesel engine programs with General Motors in Moraine, Ohio (DMAX Ltd.), and
Tychy, Poland (Isuzu Motors Polska Sp.), and replace GM with their new partner, Toyota.
The Ohio venture produces the 6.6-litre V8 diesel engine for Chevrolet Silverado and GMC
Sierra, and the Tychy venture produces the 4EE1 1.7 liter diesel engine used in half of
Opel's small cars. Such a move by Isuzu would cripple GM. Isuzu spokesman Kouitsu Mabuchi
denied the report, refusing to comment further.
Mid November 2006, Isuzu stock hits 526 Yen per Share.
Mid December 2006, Isuzu stock hits 559 Yen per Share.
End December 2006, Isuzu stock hits 566 Yen per Share.
Mid January 2007, Isuzu stock hits 576 Yen per Share.
End January 2007, Isuzu stock hits 605 Yen per Share.
Mid February 2007, Isuzu stock hits 614 Yen per Share.
End February 2007, Isuzu stock hits 666 Yen per Share.
April 3, 2007, HSBC Securities Japan Ltd. upgraded Isuzu stock.
April 9, 2007, Reuters reports that Isuzu announces that it has purchased a $7.8
million plot of land
in Alabama to build an assembly plant in North America to come on line by 2010 with an
initial annual production rate of 5,000 units, and a maximum capacity of 50,000 units.
Isuzu stock jumped 1.4% on the announcement.
Mid April, 2007, Isuzu denies reports by the Economic Times paper that it is in
talks with India's Hiro group for a joint venture to build passenger cars in India.
June 14, 2007, Reuters announces that Isuzu and Toyota announced that Isuzu will start
making diesel engines for Toyota. Isuzu stock rose 2.5% on the announcement.
End June 2007, Isuzu stock hits 693 Yen per Share.
Mid July 2007, Isuzu stock hits 720 Yen per Share.
Beginning August, 2007, Toyota has been floating illustrations of a new, retro
Toyota Corolla GT-S or AE86, to be a rear wheel drive four cylinder compact coupe,
inexpensive and light weight. The illustration is suspiciously similar to the
August 2003 concept drawing for the "New Bellett GTR, above. The fact that Toyota
is now a partial owner of Isuzu can not be ignored, and it appears that the Isuzu
retro coupe design has been picked up by Toyota. The only question left is if Isuzu will
be manufacturing the vehicles for Toyota to rebadge as Corollas.
End January 2008, Isuzu has announced that it will discontinue sales of SUVs in the
US as of January 31, 2009. Current Isuzu offerings are the I-280 and I-350 Pickup (a
rebadged Chevy Colorado which itself is a clone of the Isuzu D-Max Pickup of Southeast
Asia), and the Ascender (a rebadged Chevy Trailblazer). GM has scheduled the Colorado
and Trailblazer to be discontinued without model replacements, and will have nothing to
provide as replacement models to be rebadged. Skyrocketting fuel prices have sent truck
and SUV sales into a tailspin and small cars are the only growth market, a market which
AIM has shunned and Isuzu Motors seems to refuse to consider.
However, Isuzu is now partnered with Toyota, and may be tapped to produce the new, rear
drive Corolla, just as Daihatsu produces the Toyota db and Scion XB.
October, 2008, GM and Chrysler begin talks to merge the two ailing companies
into one company. Isuzu may have pulled out of the US market, but it appears that Isuzu
will outlive GM.
November, 2008, GM announces that it will run out of money by the end of the year.
The concept drawing released by Isuzu and the written statement that accompanied it
indicate it to be the new Sports Coupe(s). (Remember, Japanese has no plural form and this
will be important immediately below).
One source indicates both cars are two different trim levels of the same model vehicle
which is to compete with such Japanese piers as the Honda Integra (Acura RSX in the US)
and Toyota Celica, both considered the dominant specialty small cars in the Japanese
domestic market.
A second source indicates that these are in fact two different models following the
recent auto industry trend for retro styling.
The darker color car in the background is
indicated as the "New Bellett GTR", a compact sports coupe approximately 158 inches in
length with a 94 inch wheel base, a two door four seat with very rounded styling and flared
fenders with a silhouette surprisingly similar to the Audi TT. The retro exterior elements
that draw from the original Bellett GTR are the composition of the grille with integrated
quad style headlamps, the two chromed bars across the grille itself, black painted hood,
antenna ariel over the center of the windshield, crease lines in the hood, and three box
notch back proportion. This vehicle would be expected to have a four cylinder engine,
likely a 2 liter gasoline engine, with DOHC and direct injection, typically a gasoline
variant from one of the diesel lines, from either the 4E engine series, or preferably
the 4J engine series (likely a destroked 4JA1), but no firm information on drivetrain
layout. This model would fill the role
of the affordable sporty model in the lineup.
Meanwhile, the lighter colored car in the
foreground is described as the "New 117 Coupe", a mid sized sports coupe approximately 168
inches in length with a 101 inch wheel base, a two door four seat with a sloped rear window
somewhat like a fast back body style. The retro exterior elements that draw form the
original 117 Coupe are again the composition of the grille with integrated quad style
headlamps, this time with the lower edge of four round lamps extending below the lower
grille line, distinctive hexagonal emblem with bar extending to the left and right, flat hood
devoid of creases, metal tone trim pieces, and the sloping rear window and rear trunk lid.
This vehicle is expected to be rear wheel drive with the 250 HP 6VE1 V6 direct injection
engine. This model would be an image car to compete with such cars as the Nissan 350Z
and Mazda RX8.
Isuzu appears back on track to build cars.
Isuzuperformance Autocross Victories
Isuzuperformance has been campaigning a 1991 Isuzu Stylus XS driven by Bill Luton in
the D Street Prepared Class of the St. Louis Region of the Sports Car Club of America.
This car has been built for autocross competition using only Isuzuperformance parts.
The 2002 season has been particularly fruitful for the team, as they have taken first
place finishes in eight of the eleven races they have competed in this year. Victories
include:
First Place; D Street Prepared Class; STL Region SCCA 2002 Extreme Exhaust Champoinship
Series Autocross Event #3, April 7, 2002, St. Louis, Missouri, USA.
First Place; D Street Prepared Class; STL Region SCCA 2002 Extreme Exhaust Champoinship
Series Autocross Event #4, April 21, 2002, St. Louis, Missouri, USA.
First Place; D Street Prepared Class; STL Region SCCA 2002 Extreme Exhaust Champoinship
Series Autocross Event #6, May 12, 2002, St. Louis, Missouri, USA.
First Place; D Street Prepared Class; STL Region SCCA Gateway To Nationals Divisional
Autocross Event, May 26-27, 2002, St. Louis, Missouri, USA.
First Place; D Street Prepared Class; STL Region SCCA 2002 Extreme Exhaust Champoinship
Series Autocross Event #7, June 9, 2002, St. Louis, Missouri, USA.
First Place; D Street Prepared Class; STL Region SCCA 2002 Extreme Exhaust Champoinship
Series Autocross Event #9, August 11, 2002, St. Louis, Missouri, USA.
First Place; D Street Prepared Class; STL Region SCCA 2002 Extreme Exhaust Champoinship
Series Autocross Event #10, September 1, 2002, St. Louis, Missouri, USA.
First Place; D Street Prepared Class; STL Region SCCA 2002 Extreme Exhaust Champoinship
Series Autocross Event #11, October 6, 2002, St. Louis, Missouri, USA.
At the St. Louis Region SCCA 2002 Year End Banquet, Bill Luton will be awarded the trophy
for D Street Prepared Points Champion for the St. Louis Region, having taken double the
points of any other driver in that class and finishing ninth out of 350+ drivers in the
region for most points earned.
ISUPAGE Featured In National Magazine, Again!
The ISUPAGE was featured in Sport Compact Car Magazine's October 2001 issue in
the Webside section. This marks the second time that the ISUPAGE has been featured in
a national magazine, the first being specific mention in the January 1999 Sport
Compact Car Magazine article entitled "Isuzu Enthusiasts" which was about the
IsuzuWeb Car Club. No other website dealing with
Isuzu cars or Geo Storms has received such an honor as being featured in a national
magazine once, much less twice, and we thank the media for recognizing our hard work
and perserverance.
The IsuzuWeb Mailing List
The IsuzuWeb Mailing List has been established for the discussion of all things Isuzu
and all things IsuzuWeb.
ISUZUWEB.ORG
The domain name "isuzuweb.org" has been registered and has been put to good use
as the main page for the IsuzuWeb. Please update your links to the new URL.
Bill
Luton's 1986 Isuzu Impulse
Mike Robinson's 1991 Isuzu Stylus Drag Racer
Serge Lakatos's 1993 Asuna Sunfire
Mitsuhiro Takeda's 1988 Isuzu Piazza
Don Baker's Isuzu Impulse
Jacob Thomsen's Former 1988 Isuzu Impulse
Gianpaolo Albanese's 1988 Isuzu I-Mark Turbo
John Kingdon's 1988 Isuzu Piazza MKII Turbo
Edwin Vasquez's 1986 Isuzu Impulse Turbo
Heather Carzis Former 1992 Isuzu Stylus RS
Bryan Peckler's 1991 Isuzu Stylus
Marcus Toups's 1992 Geo Storm
Mike Lologgia's 1992 Geo Storm
Robert K. Lee's Isuzu Stylus XS
John Belcher's 1986 Isuzu Piazza Turbo
Arthur C. Curkovik's 1993 Asuna Sunfire
Andre Dula's 1991 Isuzu Impulse XS
Dave's Autocross Prepped 1981 Isuzu I-Mark
Chris Rhoades's 1993 Geo Storm
Glenn Percy's 1968 Isuzu Bellett GT
Rick Ng's 1989 I-Mark LS Turbo
Soren Round's 1989 Impulse Turbo
The Boy Scouts of America 1991 Geo Storm Roadster
Jon D.'s 1989 Impulse Turbo
Marc Belanger's Former 1989 I-Mark RS
Victor Dumeng's 1989 Impulse Turbo
Robert Pace's 1991 Geo Storm GSi
Eric Budinich's 1989 Impulse
Martin Durand's 1991 Impulse RS
Steve Lockett's 1990 Geo Storm GSi SCCA ITB Racer
Jeffrey Robinson's 1991 Impulse XS
Hiroyuki Nomoto's 1984 Piazza XE Turbo
Rick Ludgate's 1991 Gemini Oz/G Coupe