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20 Coolest Isuzu Vehicles You Forgot Ever Existed

Cameron Eittreim June 10, 2025

When it comes to automotive history, Isuzu is often overshadowed by bigger names. Yet, this Japanese manufacturer has delivered some of the most quirky, innovative, and unforgettable vehicles of the past century. From rugged off-road icons to futuristic concept cars, Isuzu’s contributions are both bold and surprisingly diverse.
In this article, we’ll journey through 20 of the coolest, rarest, and most fascinating Isuzu vehicles—models you probably forgot ever existed, but definitely deserve a second look.

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1. Isuzu Piazza (Impulse)

The Isuzu Piazza, known as the Impulse in North America, was a striking entry in the 1980s sports coupe scene. Styled by the legendary Giorgetto Giugiaro, its sharp, futuristic lines set it apart from rivals. Underneath, it offered rear-wheel drive dynamics and turbocharged excitement, making it a true driver’s car.
While it competed with icons like the Toyota Celica and Nissan 200SX, the Piazza’s unique flair has made it a cult favorite among enthusiasts. [Source]

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2. Isuzu VehiCROSS

The Isuzu VehiCROSS stood out with its futuristic, almost concept-car styling and aggressive stance. Produced from 1997 to 2001, this bold SUV featured cutting-edge AWD technology and a robust V6 engine, making it a true off-road performer.
Its short production run and unmistakable looks have earned it a loyal cult following today. The VehiCROSS’s unique blend of style and substance proved Isuzu wasn’t afraid to take risks, making it a modern classic. [Source]

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3. Isuzu 117 Coupe

The Isuzu 117 Coupe is a masterpiece of Italian design, penned by Giorgetto Giugiaro. Introduced in 1968, this elegant coupe boasted flowing lines and a refined interior, standing apart from its contemporaries.
It was also one of the first Japanese cars to feature a factory turbocharged engine, blending performance with sophistication. Today, the 117 Coupe is celebrated for its timeless looks and pioneering spirit. [Source]

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4. Isuzu Bellett GT-R

The Isuzu Bellett GT-R is a legend among Japanese classic cars. Launched in 1969, this compact sports sedan earned its stripes on the racetrack, boasting impressive motorsports credentials.
With a high-revving twin-cam engine and aggressive styling, the Bellett GT-R actually predates the famed Nissan Skyline GT-R, making it a true pioneer in Japanese performance. Its rarity and racing heritage have cemented its status among enthusiasts. [Source]

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5. Isuzu Axiom

The Isuzu Axiom broke the mold of early 2000s SUVs with its sharp edges and futuristic design. Launched in 2001, the Axiom’s bold styling set it apart from the sea of bland competitors.
Despite its forward-thinking looks and capable performance, it only lasted a few years on the market. Today, the Axiom stands as a reminder of Isuzu’s willingness to defy convention. [Source]

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6. Isuzu Amigo/Rodeo Sport

The Isuzu Amigo, later known as the Rodeo Sport in the US, was built for adventure. This compact SUV featured a removable soft or hard top, making it perfect for open-air fun.
Thanks to its rugged suspension and approachable size, the Amigo became a favorite among young, outdoorsy drivers in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Its playful spirit and versatility helped cement its reputation as an affordable off-road companion. [Source]

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7. Isuzu Trooper RS

The Isuzu Trooper RS epitomized rugged capability in a boxy, purposeful package. With its high ground clearance and robust four-wheel-drive system, the Trooper RS tackled tough trails and remote landscapes with ease.
Rivals like the Mitsubishi Montero and Toyota Land Cruiser often stole the spotlight, but the Trooper RS quietly built a loyal following for its dependability and off-road prowess. Today, it remains a beloved choice among classic SUV enthusiasts and overlanding fans. [Source]

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8. Isuzu Gemini ZZ/R

The Isuzu Gemini ZZ/R brought sporty flair to the compact segment. Built on a rear-wheel drive platform, the ZZ/R delivered a lively driving experience that set it apart from many front-drive rivals.
Its engineering roots trace back to the Opel Kadett and GM T-platform, giving it a unique blend of Japanese and European influences. The Gemini ZZ/R’s sharp handling and distinctive style made it a standout in the late 1970s and early 1980s. [Source]

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9. Isuzu Bellel

The Isuzu Bellel holds a special spot in history as Isuzu’s first passenger car. Debuting in the early 1960s, the Bellel was renowned for its durable construction and the availability of a robust diesel engine—a rarity among its peers at the time.
Its ruggedness made it a favorite for taxi fleets and commercial use, helping establish Isuzu’s reputation for tough, reliable vehicles. [Source]

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10. Isuzu Florian

The Isuzu Florian brought a touch of Italian elegance to Japan’s streets. Offered as both a sedan and wagon, the Florian drew inspiration from European design, with clean lines and understated sophistication.
Introduced in the late 1960s, it helped shape Isuzu’s reputation for stylish yet practical cars during the era. The Florian’s blend of reliability and flair made it a notable player in Isuzu’s evolving lineup. [Source]

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11. Isuzu Faster (KB)

The Isuzu Faster, also known as the KB, was a compact pickup that made a lasting impact worldwide. Introduced in the early 1970s, it became the basis for the Chevrolet LUV in America and paved the way for future Isuzu pickups.
Valued for its durability and versatility, the Faster was embraced by small business owners and tradespeople alike, earning a reputation as a reliable workhorse in a rapidly growing segment. [Source]

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12. Isuzu Aska

The Isuzu Aska was a versatile mid-size sedan that highlighted Isuzu’s global connections. Debuting in 1983, the Aska shared much of its engineering with the GM J-platform, including ties to the Chevrolet Cavalier.
It wore different badges in various international markets, adapting to local tastes while carrying Isuzu’s reputation for reliability. The Aska quietly expanded Isuzu’s footprint in the competitive sedan market. [Source]

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13. Isuzu Bellett Electric

Long before electric cars became mainstream, the Isuzu Bellett Electric was quietly breaking new ground. Developed in the 1970s, this rare prototype was one of Japan’s earliest experiments with alternative powertrains.
While only a handful were built, the Bellett Electric showcased Isuzu’s willingness to innovate and look to the future. Its existence highlights a lesser-known chapter in the brand’s history, proving that Isuzu was exploring electric mobility decades ahead of the curve. [Source]

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14. Isuzu Wasp

The Isuzu Wasp was a stylish yet practical answer for drivers needing a compact pickup. Based on the Bellett sedan, the Wasp blended car-like comfort with truck utility, appealing to both businesses and private owners.
Its compact size, reliability, and eye-catching design made it a standout option in the 1960s small truck market, laying the groundwork for Isuzu’s later success in the pickup segment. [Source]

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15. Isuzu MU Wizard

The Isuzu MU Wizard is a versatile SUV that found success far beyond its native Japan. Known elsewhere as the Isuzu Rodeo, it was also rebadged as the Honda Passport and Opel Frontera for global markets.
Its rugged chassis and practical design made it popular with families and adventure seekers alike. The MU Wizard’s international reach underscores Isuzu’s ability to create vehicles with broad appeal and enduring reliability. [Source]

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16. Isuzu ELF Camper

The Isuzu ELF Camper demonstrates the brand’s clever approach to recreational vehicles. Based on the durable ELF truck platform, these compact camper vans and motorhomes offered surprising comfort and utility in a small footprint.
Popular in Japan’s tight urban spaces and scenic countryside, ELF Campers showcase Isuzu’s ability to blend practicality with leisure. Their durability and charm have made them a favorite among adventurous travelers and RV enthusiasts. [Source]

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17. Isuzu Statesman DeVille

The Isuzu Statesman DeVille is a unique blend of Australian muscle and Japanese sophistication. This model was a rebadged version of the Holden Statesman luxury sedan, imported and sold by Isuzu in Japan during the 1970s.
With its powerful V8 engine and plush interior, the Statesman DeVille offered Japanese buyers a taste of big, comfortable cruisers rarely seen on local roads. It stands as a fascinating example of cross-cultural automotive collaboration. [Source]

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18. Isuzu BigHorn Lotus Edition

The Isuzu BigHorn Lotus Edition took the rugged Trooper SUV and elevated it for discerning drivers. This special edition, exclusive to Japan, featured a Lotus-tuned suspension for enhanced handling and comfort.
Targeted at upscale buyers, the BigHorn Lotus Edition combined off-road capability with refined road manners and subtle luxury touches. Its unique suspension setup made it a standout among 1990s SUVs, blending British engineering with Japanese reliability. [Source]

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19. Isuzu XU-1 Concept

The Isuzu XU-1 Concept wowed crowds at the 1993 Tokyo Motor Show with its radical design and advanced technology. Featuring dramatic gullwing doors and an innovative four-wheel steering system, the XU-1 showcased Isuzu’s willingness to push boundaries in automotive design.
While it never reached production, the concept’s bold lines and futuristic features remain unforgettable, reflecting a moment when Isuzu dared to dream big and captivate the imagination of car enthusiasts everywhere. [Source]

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20. Isuzu Gemini Irmscher R

The Isuzu Gemini Irmscher R is a true enthusiast’s gem. This limited-edition model featured distinctive bodywork and performance enhancements courtesy of German tuning house Irmscher.
Its aggressive styling, upgraded suspension, and sporty interior set it apart from standard Geminis, making it a sought-after collectible. The Irmscher R’s blend of Japanese engineering and European flair delivered a unique driving experience for those lucky enough to find one. [Source]

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Conclusion

From turbocharged coupes and rugged off-roaders to bold concepts and electric pioneers, Isuzu’s legacy is one of creativity and risk-taking. These twenty vehicles prove that Isuzu has never been afraid to forge its own path or challenge expectations.
While many of these models remain hidden gems, their stories are worth rediscovering. If you’re a true automotive enthusiast, take a closer look at Isuzu’s remarkable history—you might just find your next obsession among these forgotten classics.

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20 Coolest Isuzu Vehicles You Forgot Ever Existed

1. Isuzu Piazza (Impulse)

2. Isuzu VehiCROSS

3. Isuzu 117 Coupe

4. Isuzu Bellett GT-R

5. Isuzu Axiom

6. Isuzu Amigo/Rodeo Sport

7. Isuzu Trooper RS

8. Isuzu Gemini ZZ/R

9. Isuzu Bellel

10. Isuzu Florian

11. Isuzu Faster (KB)

12. Isuzu Aska

13. Isuzu Bellett Electric

14. Isuzu Wasp

15. Isuzu MU Wizard

16. Isuzu ELF Camper

17. Isuzu Statesman DeVille

18. Isuzu BigHorn Lotus Edition

19. Isuzu XU-1 Concept

20. Isuzu Gemini Irmscher R

Conclusion

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