Slx --- Hex ???

[nsxt2000]

I was reading about the Acura SLX and understand it was produced from 1996 to 1999 and according to several sites little more than a dressed up version of the Isuzu Trooper. The story goes that Acura was late in defining the SUV market and had nothing to compete in that segment...a fast growing segment at that. With no time to design, engineer and develop a new model the marketing folks at Acura went to outsorucing from Isuzu. Voila instant SUV as it were.

Frankly most of the reviews were unkind to say the least. I kept seeing phrases like "tall, thin, top heavy, prone to roll over, an Isuzu in different clothing, etc." On a positive note several alluded to the very nice humongous sunroof, although one source said that would come in handy in a roll over. Some guys just have a way with words.

Sales were lackluster, not helped by a "Not Acceptable" rating for the '96 - '97 models by Consumer Reports. I guess Acura needed it's own version of "Joe Isuzu", the fast talking personality who moved quite a few Isuzu's at the time. The SLX managed to linger on until 1999.

I have no personal experience with the SLX, but am a big fan of it's Acura developed MDX that followed. I would like to hear from SLX owners their take on the vehicle. Frequently the "professional" take on a vehicle will vary from real life experiences. Any SLX'ers have an opinion on this???
Mike S.

[Big Shrek]

I'm shocked that no-one has posted on here about the SLX yet.

I bought one a few years ago, it's a '96. Ran like a charm, it'd dig thru mud like it was solid ground :) But had an annoying ticking sound. Not loud enough to be worse than a Chevy, so I ignored it. Heck, my Ford Ranchero 5.8l makes a louder noise (due to old lifters).

After a few years of solid service, the ticking eventually turned into a CLANK!! RATTLE RATTLE RATTLE!! It had thrown a rod. So I parked it, steam-cleaned the engine ( so I could SEE in there) & stuck a mirror-onna-stick down there to find out how bad it was...the broken rod poked a hole in the side of the engine block.

Later found out that it had head work done, and they used the OEM replacement gaskets..which...were WRONG. A few years ago AFEA put out a warning about the OEM gaskets...guess not everyone recieved it.

It is currently sitting in my yard, awaiting a new engine...when I finally can afford to put one in...hopefully by the end of summer. I'm looking forward to have the old gal Romping & Stomping again :)

I can also say that the '96+ versions are FAR superior to the old Isuzu Trooper II's. I owned an 88 Trooper II prior to the Acura...it was a beer can...but a TOUGH beer can ;)