Good news from Isuzu:
http://www.isuzunewsbureau.com/download.php?id=150&type=file
A short clip:
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency today recognized the Isuzu 3.5-liter direct-injection gasoline V6 as one of the first engines that meets the EPAÆs tough new Tier 2, Bin 5 emissions requirements. Isuzu was recognized along with other automakers at a ceremony here announcing the Tier 2 Vehicle and Gasoline Sulfur Program, which was finalized in December 1999 and begins taking effect for the 2004 model year.

For 2004, 25 percent of each manufacturerÆs output of cars and light trucks must meet the standard; full compliance is not required until the 2007 model year.

Tier 2 requires vehicles to reduce nitrogen oxides (NOx) emissions by at least 75 percent versus pre-existing levels. The Isuzu direct-injection gasoline V6 reduces NOx emissions by 87.5 percent versus its conventionally fuel-injected predecessor.

This part isn't isuzu related, except in the area of an Asian company putting out an impressive engine, and we spend a lot of time talking engines.

In February, Sabaru is releasing a 300 HP turbocharged Forester which will probably work it's way over here and compete with high-end models....at a much cheaper price. With Recaro seats.

http://www.cartoday.com/content/news/singlepage.asp?in=5549

They're doing it with a straight 4, so I'd imagine torque and low-end power would be low, but HP is a number that impresses people.

Say it Wayne.......... S U B A R U


[color:"red"] Sue Baw Rue [/color]

S U B A R U [color:"orange"]

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[color:"blue"] Subaru [/color]



[color:"yellow"] Subaru [/color]


SUBARU <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/lol.gif" alt="" />

Subaru uses the "flat" four with a horizontally opposed piston configuration (like Porsche), and, actually, their torque numbers are pretty good due to this orientation.

Just my .02...

Subaru also have a flat six engine as well, don't know if it is used in the Forester?

No, I think it is currently used only in the Legacy cars. It wasn't until recently that they finally brought the turbo'd 2 liter here. In the Forester they're still using the 2.5L naturally aspirated version that they've had here for years.

From the web site Wayne has listed up there, it looks like the Forester is going to get a tweaked version of the 2.5L Turbo engine. This engine is currently available in the Forester line, as of the 2003 model line I believe. The stats for the standard 2.5 turbo are 210 hp @ 5600 rpm and 235 lb-ft torque @ 3600 rpm. Not all that bad really for a boosted four banger.

If Isuzu cuts anymore of their product lines, they'll be able to meet full compliance long before 2007. I miss the Trooper and the Amigo!

I liked this quote from the Isuzu press release. Not very stuffy! I'll bet he's a down to earth kind of guy:

"This engine is more environmentally friendly, efficient, and powerful. But it doesnÆt require premium fuel," explained J. Terry Maloney, president of Isuzu Motors America, Inc. "ItÆs like having your cake and eating it too, and then finding out your cake is low in calories."

And yes, I can't spell Subaru.

On a related note, the Caddy 3.6 liter puts out 260 HP, very close to Isuzu's 3.5L/250HP. Gas mileage is Isuzu (17/21) to Caddy (16/23). Caddy has a 5-speed with final gear ratio of 3.73 to Isuzu's 4-speed with gear ratio 4.10. And for some reason, the Caddy towing is 1000 std/3500 max to Isuzu's 4500/4500.

What's the HP of Isuzu's 2.6l?

About 120hp, here's a handy link to find vehicle spec's
http://english.auto.vl.ru/catalog/isuzu/

Peter H