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Before the nation’s banking lobby got to him . . .

Oops. Already said that.

Just as Isuzu lent Honda the Rodeo to call the Passport, it also provided the Trooper to Honda’s luxury Acura division to be rebadged the Acura SLX.

Confused?

When word began circulating that makers of compact SUVs were going to bringout luxury versions, the concern was that the luxury models would be no more than the compacts with new grilles and more frills. That concern was justified.

Though the Isuzu Rodeo is a fine machine, the Trooper is a frump. It is a tad narrow and boxy. Rather than a popup rear hatchlid for access in back, it features two swing-open doors, a large one and a small one, which means you can haul 2x4s or ladders and leave one door closed, whereas with a hatchlid you have to leave the entire lid partially open to carry that cargo.

The rear seats fold against the front seatbacks to allow more room for cargo, but when folded, the seat hinges are exposed, so you have to load that cargo with extra care.

Besides, how many 2x4s do you carry in a $38,000 machine?

The SLX is powered by the same 3.2-liter, 190-h.p., V-6 as the Passport, but because the SLX is a bit bigger and heavier, its V-6 is tamer. Mileage is the same–15 m.p.g. city/18 highway.

A unique SLX feature is the power outside rearview mirror control. When entering a carwash or pulling up to your mailbox, push a button in the consoleand the mirrors fold along the body, out of danger. Nice touch.

The ’96 SLX is available at $38,000 with the premium package, $33,900 without. Add $410 in freight to both. The premium package adds power moonroof,heated seats, eight-way driver and four-way passenger power seats, woodgrain trim on the doors and dash, fog lamps, five-spoke alloy wheels and the foldingmirrors.

Standard in both are dual air bags, power brakes with four-wheel ABS, powersteering/mirrors/door locks, rear window washer/wiper/defroster, air conditioning, cruise control, fold-down armrests, dual cupholders, inside fueldoor release, 16-inch all-season tires, cornering lights activated by the turnsignals and tinted glass.

Buyers also get an Acura Total Luxury Care coverage, from roadside assistance with emergency towing to vacation trip routing