Let’s not forget what it might have been: A mid-engined, AWD sports car with Lotus V8 wrapped around a stunning design that has stood the test of time.
It not only brings back fond memories of Gran Turismo 5, but also shows the unusual result of Isuzu-Lotus collaboration. Both were at the time under the General Motors umbrella. This concept is one of the last exciting Isuzu cars before they decided to stop making passenger cars.
Shiro Nagamura was responsible for the 4200R’s stunning design. He is also the man who designed the Nissan GT-R R35 supercars and the 350Z/370Z coupes as well as the Juke crossover. The sleek concept was a 2+2 coupe that featured a Lotus LT5-derived 4.2 liter V8 engine. It is located in the middle of the car and produces 350 horsepower (261 kilowatts). The active suspension system from Lotus provided better handling and ride quality. It was also improved by the addition of a four-wheel drive system.
The 4200R, along with the original NSX was one of the most fascinating cars to ever see the light of day in 1989. Isuzu’s concept was not only a stunning car, but also packed a lot of hardware. Examples of relevant items would include a high-end sound system and color satellite navigation, digital instruments cluster dials, a tape deck, and even an fax machine. Although the wild 4200R was well received, it didn’t become a production vehicle after Isuzu made the decision to concentrate on commercial vehicles in late 1992. Here are three of the most recent concepts in the series: Peugeot Oxia and Toyota CS&S.