2006 Isuzu Ascender: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Ascender is a retrimmed version of the GMC Envoy. It comes in a regular-length version with two-row five-passenger seating, and in extended-length form with three-row seven-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. The V8 comes with GM's Active Fuel Management feature, which automatically deactivates four cylinders while cruising to save fuel. Ascender is available with rear-wheel drive or 4-wheel drive that can be left engaged on dry pavement and includes low-range gearing. Antilock 4-wheel disc brakes and traction/antiskid control are standard. Optional are curtain side airbags that cover the 1st and 2nd seating rows. OnStar assistance and power-adjustable pedals are optional. Ascender comes with Isuzu's 3-year/50,000-mi. bumper-to-bumper warranty and 7-year/75,000-mi. powertrain warranty vs. GM's 3-year/36,000-mi. coverage. Maximum towing capacity is 6400 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 Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander. Our Recommended picks are Dodge Durango, Ford Explorer, Ford Freestyle, Nissan Murano, Nissan Xterra, and Toyota 4Runner.

New or significantly redesigned models include Hummer H3, Jeep Commander, Pontiac Torrent, and Subaru B9 Tribeca.