From the June 1987 issue of Car and Driver.

On the global car stage, bright lights often favor the usual headliners. Major brands like Ferraris, Porsches, Mercedes, and Hondas claim most prime parts, with occasional returns from past favorites such as the Pontiac Bonneville seeking renewed attention. Other names like Yugo and Fiat appear mainly for laughs, filling comic slots that highlight the stars even more. Yet some models, blessed with strong style and real ability, stay stuck in the background chorus. That describes the Isuzu Impulse. Despite clear appeal, it has remained a minor player.

The Impulse arrived in America in 1983 as a sleek newcomer with high hopes. Its shape came from Giorgio Giugiaro, known for many standout designs. He turned the Ace of Clubs concept into a refined example of current styling, and early critics praised its striking lines. After driving it, however, they found the rear-drive, Chevette-based car offered looks without much substance. A modest chassis paired with a modest engine failed to win fans. Its live-axle setup also drew little praise.

By 1985 Isuzu added a turbocharged and intercooled 2.0-liter four plus minor rear suspension tweaks to boost appeal. Output climbed from 90 to 140 hp, handling sharpened, and reviews improved noticeably.

For 1987 Isuzu introduced the RS version of the Turbo. It stands out with an all-white finish accented only by gray bumpers, rockers, and a matching spoiler. Small decals on the rear side windows provide the sole extra clue.

Beneath the surface the RS adds a limited-slip differential, thicker anti-roll bars, stiffer springs, and wider tires. Standard and Turbo models ride on 195/60R-14 Bridgestone Regno tires, while the RS uses 205/60R-14 unidirectional Bridgestone Potenza RE71 rubber. A five-speed manual is the sole gearbox offered.

Inside, gray cloth seats give the RS a European flavor. Everything else matches the Turbo, including air conditioning, power windows, a leather-wrapped wheel, a seven-way driver's seat, folding rear seats with recliners, an AM/FM cassette with equalizer, plush carpet, power mirrors, a rear wiper, and a defogger.

Beyond the features, the RS includes the Impulse's thoughtful cabin details that feel custom-made. Clever elements include adjustable pods beside the dash, a pop-up vent on the driver's side, sculpted armrests, separate lighters and trays up front, rubber covers on headrest posts, and a neatly placed cargo light. These touches usually stay on concepts yet appear here in production. Though stylish, the cabin feels tight; rear seats suit only kids. A missing boost gauge stands out in an otherwise complete layout.

With our fifth wheel attached the RS posted strong figures. It reached 60 mph in 7.7 seconds, matching cars like the Saab 9000 Turbo, Fiero GT, Mitsubishi Starion ESI-R, and Maserati Biturbo 425. The quarter-mile run of 15.9 seconds at 85 mph and 130-mph top speed also impress. Skidpad grip hit 0.80 g, equal to the Mercedes 190E 2.3-16, Porsche 944 Turbo, and Toyota Supra. Braking from 70 mph took 196 feet, an average result.

On twisty roads and ramps the RS demands extra focus compared with typical rivals, especially for drivers used to front-drive cars. Its live rear axle feels very active. It prefers smooth inputs and resists mid-corner corrections. Adding throttle in a turn can make the tail wag as the axle twists and steers on its own. Braking late or hard produces similar effects. In extremes moderate oversteer appears.

Drivers may view this character as either alarming or exciting depending on their comfort level. On smooth pavement with proper entry the RS can hold clean lines until tires wear or concentration fades. On rough surfaces it pitches on its springs while settling. The motion does not unsettle the car much yet highlights the need for better rear suspension.

The RS version lifts the Impulse without making it a star, yet it marks real progress. Isuzu's coupe now shows the ability to leave the background and move closer to the front. A bit more work could turn it into a true standout.

Specifications

Specifications

1987 Isuzu Impulse Turbo RS
Vehicle Type: front-engine, rear-wheel-drive, 2+2-passenger, 3-door coupe

PRICE
Base/As Tested: $14,888/$14,888

ENGINE
turbocharged and intercooled SOHC inline-4, iron block and aluminum head, port fuel injection
Displacement: 122 in³, 1995 cm³
Power: 140 hp @ 5400 rpm
Torque: 166 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm

TRANSMISSION
5-speed manual

CHASSIS
Suspension, F/R: control arms/torsion beam
Brakes, F/R: 9.8-in vented disc/10.4-in vented disc
Tires: Bridgestone Potenza RE71
205/60HR-14

DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase: 96.1 in
Length: 172.6 in
Width: 65.2 in
Height: 51.4 in
Passenger Volume, F/R: 49/29 ft³
Trunk Volume: 13 ft³
Curb Weight: 2914 lb

C/D TEST RESULTS
60 mph: 7.7 sec
1/4-Mile: 15.9 sec @ 85 mph
100 mph: 22.9 sec
110 mph: 31.8 sec
Top Gear, 30-50 mph: 11.1 sec
Top Gear, 50-70 mph: 9.7 sec
Top Speed: 130 mph
Braking, 70-0 mph: 196 ft
Roadholding, 300-ft Skidpad: 0.80 g

Interior Sound
Idle: 50 dBA
Full Throttle: 79 dBA
70-mph Cruising: 71 dBA

C/D FUEL ECONOMY
Observed: 17 mpg

EPA FUEL ECONOMY
Combined/City/Highway: 20/25 mpg

C/D TESTING EXPLAINED