This year's Rodeo has a bold new eight-port grille, new flush-mounted headlight assemblies and redesigned front and rear bumper fascia. Other than some new colors (Canal Blue Mica, Garden green Mica, Roman Bronze Mica, and Alpine White), the rest of the Rodeo looks pretty much as it has since the major reworking it received in 1998.The most significant mechanical change to the 2000 Rodeo is the new Intelligent Suspension Control system. A dedicated onboard computer monitors vehicle speed, engine rpm, brakes, and input from a g-force sensors mounted on the chassis and integrated into the shock absorbers. The computer then directs step-motors that control shock valve blow-off points to adjust compression and rebound rates. The intent is to provide a smoother ride and reduced brake-dive and body roll. Sometimes it achieves that goal, sometimes it doesn't. The Intelligent Suspension Control system is optional on LS Rodeos and standard on LSE models. Another notable change for the 2000 Rodeo isn't mechanical or cosmetic. It comes in the form of a generous 10-year/120,000 mile powertrain warranty (the basic warranty is still 3 years/50,000 miles). The powertrain warranty covers defects in materials or workmanship in the engine, transmission, suspension, steering assembly, and axles. It does not cover routine maintenance or adjustments.
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