I have a ‘96 Sidekick with 82k. It was towed around for the first 25k of it’s life. I like it, do mild offroad (compared to the built Jeeps), has 5 speed, rare AC, top rack, not for sale. Only unscheduled repair was the little $5 cam seal which we did at the same time as the timing belt. Incidentally, its short wheelbase lets me tow my boat/trailer across the backyard and onto a parking pad. Can’t manage it with the pickup.
OK, some feedback from an actual owner, thanks. From what I can tell, your model has a 1.6 liter inline four cylinder, correct? So it’s been pretty reliable and bulletproof in your experience? Is it fairly smooth and quiet for a four, or is it more tractor-like? Some fours have a lot of noise and vibration, very irritating with an automatic, not as bad with a manual.
The 2nd gen, when they all were badged Chevrolet in the US, went to a 2.0 liter four with optional V-6. I’m looking for the four due to weight considerations, one way or the other, whether 1st or 2nd ten. Auto with air. If 2nd, want the ZR2 since it has fender flares, beefier tires, not so obnoxiously “cute ute” looking.