2005 Isuzu Ascender: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Ascender is Isuzu's sole offering for 2005. Shedding the Axiom and Rodeo SUVs from its lineup, the ailing Japanese brand soldiers on with a single SUV based on General Motors' midsize truck-type SUV family. Ascender is closely related to the GMC Envoy. It comes in a regular-length version with 2-row, 5-passenger seating, and in extended-length form with 3-row, 7-passenger seating. Seven-passenger models offer 6-cyl or V8 power, 5-passenger versions only the 6-cyl. Both come with a 4-speed automatic transmission. For '05, the V8 comes with GM's Displacement on Demand feature, which automatically deactivates four cylinders to save fuel. A computer reactivates the cylinders as needed for full power. Ascender is available with rear-wheel drive or 4WD that can be left engaged on dry pavement and includes low-range gearing. Antilock 4-wheel disc brakes are standard. Newly optional for '05 are head-protecting curtain side airbags that cover the 1st and 2nd seating rows; they replace last year's available seat-mounted front side airbags. OnStar assistance and power-adjustable pedals are optional; traction control is available with 2WD. Ascender comes with Isuzu's 3-year/50,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and 7-year/75,000-mile powertrain warranty vs. GM's 3-year/36,000-mile coverage. Maximum towing capacity is 7200 lb.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Larger than Compact SUVs, Midsize SUVs offer a mix of car- and truck-type construction, V6 and V8 power, and up to 8-passenger seating. This class also includes crossover vehicles.

Our Best Buys include the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander. Our Recommended picks are the Dodge Durango, Ford Explorer, Ford Freestyle, Nissan Murano, and Toyota 4Runner.