The Vauxhall Monterey Mk II, specifically the 5-door model with the 3.0 DTI engine introduced with a facelift in 1998, represents a relatively short-lived but significant offering in the mid-size SUV segment. Sold primarily in Europe, the Monterey was a rebadged and significantly updated Isuzu Trooper, reflecting a strategic alliance between the two manufacturers. While not widely recognized in the United States, the Monterey Mk II aimed to provide a robust, capable, and family-oriented vehicle for European buyers seeking a blend of on-road comfort and off-road ability. Production spanned only from 1998 to 1999, making it a somewhat rare vehicle today.
Vauxhall Monterey Mk II: A European SUV
The Monterey occupied a niche in the European market where larger, body-on-frame SUVs were gaining popularity. It competed with vehicles like the Mitsubishi Pajero and Nissan Patrol, offering a more affordable alternative to premium brands. The Mk II facelift brought styling updates and, crucially, the introduction of the 3.0 DTI diesel engine, intended to improve fuel efficiency and provide adequate power for towing and off-road excursions. The Monterey was positioned as a versatile vehicle suitable for both family transport and recreational activities.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the 1998-1999 Monterey Mk II 3.0 DTI is a 2.999-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine, designated the 4JX1. This engine produces 159 horsepower at 3900 rpm and a substantial 333 Nm (245.61 lb.-ft.) of torque at 2000 rpm. The engine utilizes a diesel commonrail fuel injection system and a turbocharger to enhance performance and efficiency. While the 0-60 mph acceleration time of 15.7 seconds is not particularly brisk by modern standards, the engine’s torque output provides reasonable pulling power for towing and navigating challenging terrain. The Monterey achieves a maximum speed of 160 km/h (99.42 mph). Fuel economy is rated at 14 l/100 km (16.8 US mpg) in urban conditions and 9.6 l/100 km (24.5 US mpg) on the extra-urban cycle. The engine’s longitudinal front-mounted layout contributes to the vehicle’s balanced handling characteristics. The weight-to-power ratio of 12.8 kg/Hp and weight-to-torque ratio of 6.1 kg/Nm indicate a vehicle prioritizing usability over outright speed.
Design & Features
The Monterey Mk II is a traditional, body-on-frame SUV with a five-door configuration and seating for five to seven passengers, depending on the configuration. Its design reflects the late 1990s aesthetic, with a boxy silhouette and relatively conservative styling. The facelifted model features updated front and rear fascias, contributing to a more modern appearance. The interior is functional and durable, prioritizing practicality over luxury. Key features include all-wheel drive (4×4) for enhanced traction, ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, and an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for improved safety. The spacious interior offers a minimum trunk capacity of 1303 liters (46.02 cu. ft.), expanding to a substantial 2548 liters (89.98 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. The Monterey’s robust construction and high ground clearance make it suitable for light off-road use. A fuel tank capacity of 85 liters (22.45 US gal) provides a reasonable driving range.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Vauxhall |
| Model | Monterey |
| Generation | Monterey Mk II (5 dr) (facelift 1998) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0 DTI (159 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1998 |
| End of production | 1999 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5-7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 14 l/100 km (16.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 9.6 l/100 km (24.5 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 16.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 16.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 15.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 160 km/h (99.42 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.1 kg/Nm |
| Power | 159 Hp @ 3900 rpm |
| Torque | 333 Nm @ 2000 rpm (245.61 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 4JX1 |
| Engine displacement | 2999 cm3 (183.01 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 95.4 mm (3.76 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 104.9 mm (4.13 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 19:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6 l (6.34 US qt | 5.28 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8.6 l (9.09 US qt | 7.57 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2035 kg (4486.41 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2600 kg (5732.02 lbs.) |
| Max load | 565 kg (1245.61 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 1303 l (46.02 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2548 l (89.98 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 85 l (22.45 US gal | 18.7 UK gal) |
| Length | 4795 mm (188.78 in.) |
| Width | 1835 mm (72.24 in.) |
| Height | 1840 mm (72.44 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2760 mm (108.66 in.) |
| Front track | 1515 mm (59.65 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1520 mm (59.84 in.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Tires size | 215/80 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
The Vauxhall Monterey Mk II, while a relatively short-lived model, offered a compelling package for European buyers seeking a capable and versatile SUV. Its blend of robust construction, all-wheel drive capability, and practical interior space made it a suitable choice for families and those with active lifestyles. Although not a mainstream success, the Monterey represents an interesting chapter in Vauxhall’s history and a testament to the collaborative efforts between Vauxhall and Isuzu.
