Overview & Reviews

The Isuzu Ascender was a product of Isuzu's alliance with General Motors. In terms of design and running gear, it was pretty much identical to GM's other truck-based SUVs such as the Chevrolet TrailBlazer. Only in terms of styling and trim levels did the Ascender offer any significant variation.

The Isuzu Ascender lacked brand recognition, a third-row seat and some desirable features. It also lagged in terms of overall refinement. Only its low price stood out. Given that Isuzu no longer sells cars in the United States, this is a lame duck best avoided.

Most Recent Isuzu Ascender

The Isuzu Ascender was launched in 2003 as a seven-passenger extended-wheelbase model only. The smaller five-passenger version was first released in 2004. Both rear-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive variants were available. Power for the Isuzu Ascender came from a 4.2-liter, inline six-cylinder engine. It produced 285-291 horsepower (depending on year) and 277 pound-feet of torque. A four-speed automatic transmission was standard. Older models had the option of a 290-hp 5.3-liter V8. In 2005, the V8 was equipped with Displacement on Demand technology to improve fuel economy. But the V8 and seven-passenger Ascender were discontinued for the 2007 model year.

Trim levels were added and subtracted over time, as were equipment items. Generally, though, base Ascenders were sparsely equipped, while upper trims were borderline luxurious. Standard equipment included dual-zone manual climate control (with rear-seat controls), power locks and windows, power accessories and a CD player stereo. Available items included power mirrors and driver seat, power-adjustable pedals, keyless entry, cruise control, sunroof, leather upholstery, heated seats, driver memory functions, a six-CD changer and upgraded audio.

In road tests, we found the Isuzu Ascender to offer a comfortable ride and decent power. However, the Ascender's handling was rather sloppy. Feedback to the driver was numb and slow. Buyers looking for an urban-oriented SUV might be disappointed and would be better off looking at more evolved midsize SUVs or crossovers. Off-road, the 4WD Ascender comes more into its own given its body-on-frame construction and low-range gearing.

User Reviews:

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  Surprise!!! - 2003 Isuzu Ascender
  By tix6174 - May 17 - 10:00 am

  Great vehicle!! Had already been looking at the Envoy XL and Trailblazer EXT, but didnt really care for the stylings of those. Stumbled across the Ascender here on Edmunds and discovered it was the same truck, so had to find one to test drive. What a difference!!! The GMC "felt" smaller inside and I dont like the look of the TB (plus there are hundreds around here). The ride was much better too! So for about $5000 less, I got a better warranty and up-level options (Limited minus leather), plus that great V8.

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  enjoy - 2006 Isuzu Ascender
  By cliff - April 20 - 11:06 am

  Wonderful but needs cruise control.

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  Drive it before you buy it - 2006 Isuzu Ascender
  By great deal by Jeff - March 16 - 7:33 am

  Large suv, plenty of room for all sized people and cargo. Has plenty of power with 6 cylinder; if you are looking for a large suv check it out but drive it before you buy it. It is large, but you can get a good deal on pricing. Get the preferred package which adds to its good looks and you get lots of extra goodies.

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  Give it a chance!! - 2004 Isuzu Ascender
  By Buzzard - March 6 - 10:00 am

  If you dont have one;GET ONE!! Same as Trailblazer & Envoy.Better warranty and price.Same engine,same transmission.If you are considering Chevy or GMC,it would be worth your time to check one out.I have 4 kids.has plenty of room.

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  Isuzu Acender...poor mans enovy - 2004 Isuzu Ascender
  By Othello - December 21 - 2:00 am

  Outstanding Drive! Lots of space!

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  I love my Ascender - 2004 Isuzu Ascender
  By mom of teens - December 21 - 2:00 am

  I have only had my Ascender for a couple of weeks, but I love this SUV. The options available are far better than the Trailblazer, plus the warranty and price cant be beat. I like the 2- tone exterior and the 6 CD changer in the dash. I love the sun roof and the computer. The V8 was also worth the extra $600. The kids love the sound systen in the back. The third row seat is easily accessible, too.

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  Great look and great ride - 2004 Isuzu Ascender
  By Tarun Ghosh - December 2 - 4:30 pm

  I am still learning about this car. I bought the 5 passenger. I got two kids and so I am still thinking to go to dealership and request for an exchange to a 7 seater. This car is as good as TrailBlazer and Envoy but I got more options in the same price.

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  Impressive SUV - 2003 Isuzu Ascender
  By gunter - December 2 - 2:00 am

  I have been test driving SUVs for the past 6 months and had decided on the Acura MDX. A friend suggested I check out the Isuzu Ascender. After driving both vehicles and comparing styling, cargo area, passenger comfort and overall value, the Ascender has won me over. It is a much better looking vehicle than the MDX both inside and out. I felt more comfortable driving the Ascender (I am 5ft 2, 118 lbs) and I can actually carry other adults in the third row. The gas mileage is better on the MDX, but the MDX lacks the style and comfort of the Ascender.

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  Losing Some Paint - 2007 Isuzu Ascender
  By Tom - November 25 - 10:26 pm

  After almost a year of ownership, overall I really like the vehicle. It handles the snow well and the ride is very good for an SUV. There is a problem of the paint getting blasted off on the flairs in front of the rear wheels.

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  I would buy a second one!!! - 2005 Isuzu Ascender
  By sanabu - November 21 - 4:13 pm

  It is a real shame that Isuzu will no longer offer personal automobiles as of January 1, 2009. My 2005 Ascender Limited is probably one of the best buys I have completed based on value and acquisition. I wrote my first review on this car on 6/05. I liked the car then and now I just love it. 72000 miles later the truck still has that new feel. When it was brand new the radio broke and it was fixed by the dealer promptly. Other than that just standard maintenance. Everything works on this SUV. Last time I rated the mileage as a 5. Now Im rating it as a 7 as the truck will usualy do between 18 to 20 miles per gallon which is not bad for the size of truck that I am driving. No complaints.