Acceleration

4WD Base	Class Average
6	5.2

Test Ascender did 0-60 mph in 8.8 sec, was unfazed in everyday driving. Responsive automatic transmission helps 6-cyl engine deliver decent passing punch, but really needs five speeds, not four. Maximum towing capacity is 5800 lb.

Fuel Economy

4WD Base	Class Average
4	4

Test Envoys and Ascenders averaged 12.1-17.4 mpg. That's slightly sub-par for the class, but typical of truck-type SUVs.

Ride Quality

4WD Base	Class Average
5	5.5

Suspension smothers most bumps quite well for a truck-type SUV, but dips and swells can induce unwanted porpoising at highway speed, and there's less overall compliance than in most car-based rivals.

Steering/Handling/Braking

4WD Base	Class Average
3	4.5

Disappointing overall, with marked body lean in sharp turns and imprecise steering that demands lots of correcting at highway speed. But standard traction/antiskid control a plus, as is a relatively tight turning radius. Standard antilock 4-wheel disc brakes deliver adequate stopping power, but "panic" stops trigger marked nosedive and some wander.

Quietness

4WD Base	Class Average
4	5.6

Wind rush can annoy at highway speeds, even with a closed sunroof. The 6-cyl engine cruises quietly enough, but sounds gruff when cold and a touch ragged at full throttle. Tire noise not intrusive, but never absent either.

Controls

4WD Base	Class Average
7	6.6

Dashboard design uninspired but serviceable in the usual GM way. Switchgear works smoothly, but adjusting the low-set climate controls forces a long look away from the road. Utilitarian describes the truck-like cabin decor and workmanship.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

4WD Base	Class Average
7	7

Good head and leg room, even for taller folks. Seats too soft for best support, but not uncomfortable. Visibility restricted aft and over-the-shoulder by headrests, thick roof pillars. Available power-adjustable pedals may be helpful, especially to shorter drivers.

Room/Comfort (rear)

4WD Base	Class Average
6	6.1

Six-footers enjoy ample head room and OK knee room, plus good under-seat foot space despite stepped floorboard. Split bench seat comfortable, fairly supportive, and wide enough for three adults with a little squeezing. As in front, step-in a bit high, entry/exit just OK.

Cargo Room

4WD Base	Class Average
9	8

Generous volume abetted by easy-fold 60/40 split rear seat with self-stowing headrests, but resulting load deck is uneven and so can frustrate packing. Liftgate's separate opening glass is fairly high, thus partly negating its usefulness. Cabin has good array of pockets and compartments for small items.

Value within Class

4WD Base	Class Average
5	5.9

Though Ascender matches most truck-type rivals for pace and space, Isuzu's longer warranty doesn't fully offset a sparse dealer network and the lower resale values associated with this brand. Ascender intenders would be better off with a Chevy TrailBlazer or GMC Envoy, as their pricing and equipment are much the same.

Total Score

4WD Base	Class Average
56	58.4

Scores for all Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles

Low Score		48
Average Score		58
High Score		69