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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  THE GREAT ASCENDER - 2004 Isuzu Ascender
  By TERRY - January 21 - 7:16 am

  This vehicle has been great 70,000 Miles no major repairs 45,000 on set of tires and 60,000 on brakes City mileage 16MPG Highway as much as 23MPG The editors rating is off base, was $7,500 less than its sister Chevy. with double the warranty. Just needs a few more Isuzu dealers in north east ohio. No doubt the Best Bang for the Buck.

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  Comfortable limo type ride - 2005 Isuzu Ascender
  By Kent - December 19 - 2:13 pm

  Great ride, good performance and comfortable for 6 of us on a 1500 mile trip to South Florida. Gas mileage of 21 was great and on regular gas. The AWD was great in the rain, and using the trailer hitch and wiring was easy. Good heater and A/C system. Price of $24,000 was lower than some minivans we looked at and this has all wheel drive. Much tighter vehicle than the Town and Country, and more versatile than the van.

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  Best value for money in the class - 2004 Isuzu Ascender
  By Kedar - December 11 - 4:03 am

  Smooth, comfortable ride. Third row seat actually usable by adults. Plenty of room. In terms of features available for the price, second to none other in the class of large SUVs.

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  Good SUV - 2007 Isuzu Ascender
  By AYGARCIA - September 21 - 5:56 am

  I like my ASCENDER 2007, but dont like the front seat belts. They scratch my neck and I have to keep pulling them away for a while. The seat belts are too low. Also, the tire maintenance sensor lights went on the first week I bought it and theyve been on for 3 years, even though the tires are brand new, including the spare tire! I wish it had keyless entry and better sound system. The center console is too fragile. Other than that, it is a good car to drive.

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  7 passanger Ascender - 2004 Isuzu Ascender
  By Bill Manes - September 4 - 10:00 am

  Great car handling on the road. Plenty of power and very comfortable. Visability is very good. Seems to be classier than the other similar GM models built on the same frame.

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  Great - 2003 Isuzu Ascender
  By allison milford - August 15 - 10:00 am

  It has been great!!!!!

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  good family room and value - 2005 Isuzu Ascender
  By kent - July 20 - 5:46 pm

  Great comfortable ride and the fuel economy is pretty good, 6 of us and luggage on a trip over 21 mpg, in comfort. Pleased with the value and the 7 year warranty. And got a great price, $24,250 bucks for this 7 passenger and all the features. We enjoy it more than our Chrysler minivan that we never could feel safe about, or always worried when the infamous Chrysler quality and transmission would break down. Pleased with the Ascender.

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  go for it - 2003 Isuzu Ascender
  By csieka - June 28 - 10:00 am

  We like this vehicle, however we have already had it in for repairs on the a/c switch. It is suposed to have a monitor for the life of oil, but the mechanic manager said we should change oil every 3,000 miles anyway. As front passenger sometimes the consule proved to be uncomfortable when traveling long distances. Overall we are still very pleased.

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  My Isuzu Ascender LS Review - 2005 Isuzu Ascender
  By Lancer95 - June 25 - 1:56 am

  I like Isuzu Ascender which is the same as the Trailblazer and Envoy, but I think that the Ascender is a lot better looking in design and has a better price and warranty.

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  So much more than expected! - 2004 Isuzu Ascender
  By AKennedy - June 10 - 2:00 am

  I went to the dealership intending to purchase a different make SUV that is much larger. I would never be able to get all of the extras that I got in the Limited Ascender. This is a smooth ride with plenty of room, and it doesnt feel like a bus! We are so happy and ready for our first road trip.