2002-2004 Isuzu Axiom: Road Test

Performance ranks around class-average. When new, a test 4WD XS Axiom accelerated to 60 mph in 8.3 seconds. On the down side, the V6 feels somewhat labored, aggravated by syrupy throttle response and a need for a hefty shove on the accelerator for best pickup. Isuzu claimed a 0-60 mph acceleration time of 7.5 seconds for the 250-hp engine introduced in 2004. Isuzu's Torque On Demand 4WD system is unobtrusive. Fuel economy averaged 17.4 mpg in tests that included plenty of highway miles. Another example averaged only 13.4 mpg in testing that included gas-eating performance runs. Axioms use regular-grade fuel. Despite the adjustable suspension, ride quality is poor overall. Normal mode doesn't absorb bumps well, and also allows queasy wallow and residual bouncing. The firmer Sport setting controls body motions better, but makes things jittery-harsh except on glassy surfaces. As for steering/handling, the Axiom's gimmicky suspension cannot disguise the aged Rodeo chassis. Handling is generally imprecise--far sloppier than in car-based unibody rivals such as the Toyota Highlander. Expect mediocre grip and marked body lean in corners, especially in Normal mode, which also allows unruly nosedive and rebounding in hard stops. Slow, numb steering is another drawback, and an Axiom is easily blown about by gusty crosswinds. Quietness falls below class-average. The V6 is coarse and throbby, except in gentle cruising. Wind rush is evident from 40 mph, tire roar marked on all but unblemished asphalt. Instruments and stalk controls are acceptable, but look-alike audio and climate buttons are distinguished only by color. Their settings appear on a central screen that's crowded with outside-temperature, date, and time readouts. The display is busy and washes out in bright light. Nicely padded interior surfaces clash with budget-grade molded plastics and cut-rate painted-metal-look trim pieces. One text Axiom suffered several rattles after only 3500 miles. Rather shapeless, low-set front seats allow decent six-footer headroom, but force awkward legs-out posture and don't have height or cushion-tilt adjustments. Outward visibility is generally good, enhanced by large side mirrors. The rear bench seat is also low and shapeless, lacking in thigh support. It's too narrow for uncrowded three-abreast travel. Knee clearance is good, but there's little toe room and marginal six-footer head room. Rear entry/exit is impeded by a high step-up and rear doors that don't swing out very far. At the rear, the liftgate lacks separate-opening glass and doesn't rise very high, so anyone above 5-foot-8 must stoop beneath it. The split rear seat double-folds to create a flat floor, but headrests must be removed first. Total load volume and small-items storage are nothing special.

Value for the Money
Underwhelming is the word for Isuzu's Axiom. Beneath its edgy styling, the Axiom is troublingly trucky and trails any number of car-based "crossovers" for value, refinement, performance--and even utility. Lack of third-row seating is another drawback these days, for a midsize SUV. Because Axiom sales have been snail-paced, prices may be low.