U.S. EPA Recognizes Isuzu's Direct-Injection Gasoline V6

New Engine Meets Stringent New Emissions Standards Years Ahead Of Requirements; Standard on Axiom, Optional on Rodeo for 2004

WASHINGTON, Jan. 29 -- The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has recognized the Isuzu 3.5-liter direct-injection gasoline V6 as one of the first engines that meets the EPA's 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 manufacturer's 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.

The engine also reduces non-methane organic gas (NMOG) emissions by 16.7 percent, while at the same time improving fuel economy by 6 to 10 percent and horsepower by 8.7 percent.

"This engine is more environmentally friendly, efficient, and powerful. But it doesn't require premium fuel," explained J. Terry Maloney, president of Isuzu Motors America, Inc. "It's like having your cake and eating it too, and then finding out your cake is low in calories."

The Isuzu 3.5-liter direct-injection gasoline V6 is standard in the 2004 Axiom and optional on the 2004 Rodeo. The only other vehicles available for sale in the United States to offer direct-injection gasoline engines are the $116,495 BMW 760Li and the Rolls-Royce Phantom, priced well above $300,000. Isuzu is therefore the sole company to offer a direct-injection gasoline engine in a U.S.-market truck, in a vehicle of any kind available in the U.S. priced under $100,000, and in a vehicle at any price available in the U.S. that runs on regular unleaded fuel.

Prior to its recognition by the EPA, the engine had already received a 2003 "Best of What's New" Award from POPULAR SCIENCE magazine.