General Comments:
Gas mileage: I was getting about 26 MPG with my Chevy S-10 Pickup, as opposed to about 19 with the Rodeo. But then again the S-10 only had 125 HP and weighed 3700 lbs as opposed to 205 HP and 4100 lbs. All in all the comfort, features, sturdiness, performance and usefulness are well worth the little difference.
RIDE: I find the Rodeo tends to wallow a bit on uneven roads. Suspension should be a bit tighter, to prevent secondary bouncing. Other than that the ride is quite smooth and the seats are very comfortable and supportive.
POWER: No issues here at all. I found that the transmission is computer controlled and until the engine warms up, the shift points are a little high. Doesn't shift into 4th until 60-65 MPH as opposed to 50-55. Once warmed up the average 4th gear shift point is at 55-60 mph depending on the degree of acceleration.
2nd Feb 2005, 18:24
I'm glad you like your Rodeo, but I hope you are not only going to drive it on the road. The Rodeo has body-on-frame construction, a live rear axle, and low-range gearing. Whether you know it or not, your Rodeo can give a Jeep quite a run for its money off road.