Isuzu placed a sleeker body on its midsize Rodeo SUV chassis and installed a larger V6, to create the Axiom for 2002. Axioms were offered in base and uplevel XS trim levels. They shared a 3.5-liter V6 from Isuzu's recently-retired Trooper SUV. A four-speed automatic was the only transmission. Axioms were available with rear-wheel drive or with Isuzu's Torque On Demand four-wheel drive, which can be left engaged on dry pavement and included low-range gearing. Although Axioms shared the Rodeo's wheelbase, they were six inches longer and about 1.6 inches taller. The Axiom's body was considerably curvier. Side airbags were unavailable, but antilock braking was standard. Also included were 17-inch alloy wheels and Isuzu's Intelligent Suspension Control, which was basically electronically managed shock-absorber damping. Axioms with four-wheel drive had rear disc brakes instead of drums. The XS upgraded the base model with fog lamps, a sunroof, heated front seats, and leather upholstery. Axiom rivals included the Dodge Durango, Ford Explorer, GMC Envoy, and Toyota Highlander.