2008 Isuzu Ascender: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2008 Isuzu Ascender SUV is largely unchanged. Ascender is a traditional truck-type SUV and is essentially a retrimmed version of the Chevrolet TrailBlazer and GMC Envoy. Ascender is available with rear-wheel drive or with 4-wheel drive that can be left engaged on dry pavement and includes low-range gearing. The sole powertrain teams a 285-hp 4.2-liter 6-cylinder engine with a 4-speed automatic transmission. Maximum towing capacity is 5800 lb. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, and curtain side airbags. Note that Isuzu will discontinue sales of light-duty vehicles in North America during calendar 2009.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 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 eight-passenger seating. This class also includes crossover vehicles.

Our Best Buy choices are the Honda Pilot, GMC Acadia, Mazda CX-9, and Saturn Outlook. Our Recommended picks are the Hyundai Santa Fe, Hyundai Veracruz, and Toyota Highlander.

New or significantly redesigned models include the Toyota Highlander.