2007 Isuzu Ascender: Road Test
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2007 Isuzu Ascender ▼
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- MSRP: $25,959 -$27,959
- Invoice: $24,401 -$26,281
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Our road test for the 2007 Isuzu Ascender includes a full evaluation of the 2007 Isuzu Ascender from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2007 Isuzu Ascender, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2007 Isuzu Ascender help you decide if a 2007 Isuzu Ascender is right for you.
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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 |
Total Score: 56
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