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The worst thing about the SLX, a new-for-'96 sport-utility vehicle from Acura is this: It's a clone of the Isuzu Trooper. Built in the on the same platform, with the same engine and body, it can actually pass for a Trooper when veiled with a light coat of dust. And while the Trooper is no slouch in terms of image, it doesn't measure up to Acura's luxury-liner lineage. The best thing about the SLX is this: It's a clone of the Isuzu Trooper. The rugged, veteran SUV knows exactly what it wants to be, and plays its role without guile or apology. What it wants to be is a capable yet plush upscale ute with a price higher than most, but lower than some. I drove the SLX Premium, which at $38,000 is priced the same as an equally-equipped Trooper Limited. It's $4,100 more than the base SLX. It stands 72 inches tall, and it makes its way about town like a big basketball player: Athletic and strong, but not exceptionally agile. It leans a bit in turns, a tendency compounded by its boulevard-ride suspension. New for '96 is shift-on-the-fly capability, which lets you choose 4WD without stopping the car. Finally. Still missing, however, is a center diferential, which means you can't use 4WD for extended periods on dry pavement. That's a pain in mixed weather. The SLX offers not even the pretense of a third-row seat. It's all storage cargo space back there, which means plenty of cargo and plenty of leg room in the second seat. The high roof means abundant head room. Three adults can ride comfortably in the back. Winter features include heated seats (part of the Premium package), and an automatic transmission with Winter mode, for creeping off ice. Dual heated mirrors are standard. A 60/40 split rear seat accommodates skis. A unique, side-hinged double-dutch door is split appoximately 70/30, and is handy for loading cargo. The spare tire is mounted outside, which leaves more room inside. A limited-slip rear differential is standard. Acceleration is adequate for such a weighty vehicle, and with just six cylinders, fuel economy is acceptable. Unlike the Trooper, the SLX is not available with a manual transmission. The SLX is a paradox: a comfortable truck, at semi-comfortable price. 1996 Acura SLX Premium
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