Isuzu Impulse
The Impulse was known as the Isuzu Piazza in other parts of the world. The first generation was produced from 1980 to 1990 and was introduced in the US in 1983, Isuzu also built the Chevrolet / Geo Spectrum on the same platform. The second generation was introduced in 1990 and was technically related to the four-door Isuzu Stylus. Isuzu also built the Geo Storm on the same platform. In 1993 Isuzu stopped selling cars in the United States and only focused on SUVs and pick-up trucks.
Isuzu Impulse Overview
The Isuzu Impulse is a unique and often overlooked chapter in the history of sport compacts and was notable for its collaboration with Lotus on its suspension system during the second generation. The Isuzu Impulse was in production for two generations, from 1983 to 1992.
The first-generation Impulse, known as the Isuzu Piazza in Japan, was based on the Isuzu Aska platform. The exterior design was by the famed Giorgetto Giugiaro of ItalDesign, giving the car a unique and stylish look for its time. Initially, the car was powered by a 2.0-liter inline-four engine, available in both naturally aspirated and turbocharged versions.
The second generation (1990-1992) had a design that was more angular and modern compared to the first generation. A key selling point was the “Handling by Lotus” badge. Lotus Engineering had revamped the suspension, providing the car with a sportier ride and improved handling. Engine options included a 1.6-liter inline-four and a more potent 2.3-liter DOHC engine. A turbocharged variant was available in certain markets. All-wheel drive (AWD) was offered as an option on some models, making the Impulse a well-rounded sports compact.
The Impulse was positioned as a sporty compact car, aiming to compete with vehicles like the Toyota Celica and the Nissan 200SX. The Impulse was generally well-received, especially the second generation with its Lotus-tuned suspension. However, despite its unique features and performance, it remained a niche product and wasn’t as widely recognized as some of its competitors.
Isuzu Impulse Sales Figures
The Isuzu Impulse remains a cult favorite among automotive enthusiasts, especially for those who appreciate its unique design and the Lotus-engineered handling of the second generation. As Isuzu shifted its focus primarily towards SUVs and trucks in the 1990s, passenger car models like the Impulse were phased out.
Isuzu Impulse U.S Sales Data & Charts
US Annual Sales
| Year | Sales Units |
|---|---|
| 1983 | 8,855 |
| 1984 | 12,536 |
| 1985 | 14,173 |
| 1986 | 12,864 |
| 1987 | 7,287 |
| 1988 | 7,210 |
| 1989 | 3,875 |
| 1990 | 3,327 |
| 1991 | 3,059 |
| 1992 | 3,148 |
| 1993 | 170 |
