2003 Isuzu Axiom: Road Test
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2003 Isuzu Axiom ▼
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- MSRP: $24,345 -$29,995
- Invoice: $22,942 -$28,196
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Our road test for the 2003 Isuzu Axiom includes a full evaluation of the 2003 Isuzu Axiom from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2003 Isuzu Axiom, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2003 Isuzu Axiom help you decide if a 2003 Isuzu Axiom is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| XS 4WD | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 4.9 |
Test 4WD XS Axiom did 0-60 mph in a class-average 8.3 sec. But the V6 feels somewhat labored, aggravated by syrupy throttle response and need for a hefty shove on the accelerator for best pickup.
FUEL ECONOMY
| XS 4WD | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 3 | 3.7 |
Averaged 17.4 mpg in test that included lots of highway miles. Another example averaged only 13.4 mpg in testing that included gas-eating performance runs. Axiom uses regular-grade fuel.
RIDE QUALITY
| XS 4WD | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 3 | 4.4 |
Poor overall, even with adjustable suspension. Normal mode not very absorbent and allows queasy wallow and residual bouncing. Firmer Sport setting controls body motions but feels jittery and harsh except on glassy surfaces.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| XS 4WD | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 2 | 3.5 |
Here too, gimmicky suspension can't disguise aged Rodeo chassis. Handling generally imprecise, far sloppier than in car-based rivals such as Toyota Highlander. Mediocre grip, marked body lean in corners, especially in Normal mode, which also allows unruly nosedive and rebounding in hard stops. Slow, numb steering. And Axiom is easily blown about by gusty crosswinds.
QUIETNESS
| XS 4WD | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 4.1 |
V6 coarse and throbby except in gentle cruising, wind rush evident from 40 mph, tire roar marked on all but unblemished asphalt.
CONTROLS
| XS 4WD | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 6.1 |
Look-alike audio and climate buttons distinguished only by color. Their settings appear on a central screen crowded with date, time, and outside-temperature data. 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 test Axiom had several rattles after only 3500 mi.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| XS 4WD | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 6.3 |
Shapeless, low-set seats allow decent 6-footer head room but force awkward legs-out posture and lack adjustment for height or cushion-tilt. Good outward visibility, enhanced by large side mirrors.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| XS 4WD | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 5.4 |
Bench seat also low, shapeless, lacking in thigh support. Too narrow for uncrowded three-abreast travel. Good knee clearance, but little toe room, marginal 6-footer head room. Entry/exit impeded by high step-up and rear doors that don't swing out very far.
CARGO ROOM
| XS 4WD | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 7.8 |
Liftgate lacks separate-opening glass and doesn't rise very high, so anyone above 5-ft-8 must stoop beneath it. Split rear seat double-folds to create a flat floor, but headrests must be removed first. Total load volume and small-items storage nothing special.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| XS 4WD | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 2 | 5 |
Underwhelming. Beneath its edgy styling, Axiom is troublingly trucky and trails other car-based crossovers for value, refinement, performance, even utility. And lack of 3rd-row seating is a drawback these days. Axiom sales are snail-paced, so don't buy without big price cuts.
Total Score
| XS 4WD | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 39 | 51.2 |
Total Score: 39
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