The Isuzu Impulse Coupe 1.6 i 12V (95 hp) Automatic, produced between 1990 and 1995, represented the entry point into the second-generation Impulse lineup. Positioned as a more affordable and fuel-efficient option, it catered to buyers seeking a stylish coupe without the performance or price tag of the more potent turbocharged variants. This model was primarily sold in North America and Japan, where the demand for compact, sporty coupes was strong. It was built on the Isuzu AS platform, shared with the Geo Storm and later the Opel Astra. The 1.6L engine and automatic transmission combination aimed for a balance between usability and economy, making it a popular choice for daily commuting.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Isuzu |
| Model | Impulse |
| Generation | Impulse Coupe |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 i 12V (95 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 1990 |
| End of production | 1995 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11 l/100 km (21.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7 l/100 km (33.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 170 km/h (105.63 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.9 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.9 kg/Nm |
| Power | 95 Hp @ 5800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 59.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 131 Nm @ 4800 rpm (96.62 lb.-ft. @ 4800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 1588 cm3 (96.91 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 80 mm (3.15 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 79 mm (3.11 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.1:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 3 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Kerb Weight | 1035 kg (2281.78 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 310 l (10.95 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 620 l (21.9 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 47 l (12.42 US gal) |
| Length | 4150 mm (163.39 in.) |
| Width | 1695 mm (66.73 in.) |
| Height | 1300 mm (51.18 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2450 mm (96.46 in.) |
| Front track | 1430 mm (56.3 in.) |
| Rear track | 1400 mm (55.12 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 3 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic |
| Tires size | 185/60 HR14 |
| Wheel rims size | 14 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Impulse Coupe 1.6 i was the 4G62 engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine featured a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design with 12 valves (3 valves per cylinder). It utilized multi-port fuel injection, a significant improvement over earlier carbureted designs, contributing to better fuel efficiency and smoother operation. The engine’s 9.1:1 compression ratio was a compromise between performance and the ability to run on readily available gasoline grades. The three-speed automatic transmission was a conventional hydraulic unit, chosen for its simplicity and cost-effectiveness. While not known for its sporty responsiveness, it provided smooth shifts and made the Impulse easy to drive in urban environments. The engine code for this variant is often found as 4G62.
Driving Characteristics
The 95 horsepower and 131 Nm (96.62 lb-ft) of torque delivered by the 1.6L engine resulted in adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took approximately 11-12 seconds, and the top speed was around 105 mph. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were geared towards fuel economy rather than outright acceleration. Compared to the turbocharged variants of the Impulse, which offered significantly more power and torque, the 1.6L felt noticeably slower. However, it provided a more relaxed driving experience, particularly in city traffic. The front-wheel-drive configuration offered predictable handling, but lacked the all-weather capability of an all-wheel-drive system.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 i Automatic Impulse Coupe typically came with a fairly basic level of equipment. Standard features generally included power steering, a basic audio system, cloth upholstery, and manual windows and locks. Air conditioning was often an optional extra. Interior trim was typically a simple, durable cloth in shades of gray or blue. Higher trim levels, if available, might have added features like upgraded audio systems, power windows, and alloy wheels. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, prioritizing ease of use over aesthetic flair.
Chassis & Braking
The Impulse Coupe utilized a relatively simple chassis design. Front suspension consisted of coil springs and MacPherson struts, while the rear suspension employed a coil spring and torsion beam setup. The front brakes were ventilated discs, providing adequate stopping power, while the rear brakes were drum brakes, a cost-saving measure. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were often included as standard equipment, enhancing safety. The relatively lightweight construction of the vehicle (around 2282 lbs) helped to offset the modest power output.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Isuzu Impulse Coupe 1.6 i Automatic was generally well-received as an affordable and stylish coupe. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and ease of driving, but noted its lack of performance compared to its turbocharged siblings. Compared to competitors like the Honda Civic Coupe or Toyota Celica, the Impulse offered a slightly more distinctive design and a more spacious interior. However, it often lagged behind in terms of overall refinement and reliability. Fuel economy was a strong point, averaging around 21-34 mpg depending on driving conditions.
Legacy
The Isuzu Impulse Coupe 1.6 i Automatic, while not the most powerful or technologically advanced vehicle of its time, holds a place in automotive history as a stylish and affordable coupe. The 4G62 engine, while not known for exceptional durability, proved to be reasonably reliable with proper maintenance. Today, these vehicles are relatively rare and are becoming increasingly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts. Parts availability can be a challenge, but the engine shares components with other Mitsubishi and Isuzu models, making sourcing replacements somewhat easier. The 1.6L automatic variant is often considered the most accessible entry point into Impulse ownership, offering a classic coupe experience without the higher cost and complexity of the turbocharged models.
