VAUXHALL'S next Frontera model took a bow at the Tokyo Motor Show - on another car maker's exhibition stand. Wearing Isuzu 145 badges, the new model is lower and wider than the current car and began production in America two months ago at a factory which is jointly operated by Isuzu - it has links with Vauxhall parent General Motors - and Subaru.

According to Isuzu European chief designer Simon Cox, five- and three-door versions are badged as the Rodeo and Amigo in the US and right-hand-drive examples will be available early next year. Birmingham-based Cox, whose exterior and interior proposals for the new model were accepted by GM Europe, said: 'The new car's extra width has played a big part in giving it improved on-road performance.'