Overview & Reviews

New options include XM Satellite Radio and a side curtain airbag system (available midyear). The 5.3-liter V8 now includes Displacement-on-Demand technology to improve fuel economy and is rated for five more horsepower this year for a total of 300.

• Strong six- and eight-cylinder engines, simple interior design, plenty of passenger and cargo room, long warranty.

• Spongy suspension, numb steering, low-grade interior materials, odd exterior proportions, poor expected resale value.

User Reviews:

Showing 11 through 20 of 29.00

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  Upgrading to the Ascender - 2005 Isuzu Ascender
  By Bob Ransom - September 26 - 10:23 am

  I recently upgraded from the Isuzu Rodeo to the Ascender, what an improvement! The overall ride comfort, suspension, brakes, and space were noticeable from the initial test drive. After taking the vehicle on a 600 mile trip, other positives such as the air-conditioner and low level of outside noise became apparent. Purchasing this vehicle has been the best decision Ive made all year!

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  My view on 2005 Ascender - 2005 Isuzu Ascender
  By Sabryna - August 12 - 4:30 pm

  I feel that overall the suv was a very good price. However I feel that the tires that they have on the Suv really STINK! They dont handle well on wet/snow pavement. If they put a better tires on it then the preformance rating I would give would have been much hire.

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  Love my Ascender - 2005 Isuzu Ascender
  By rbraxton - July 31 - 12:33 pm

  I have not had any problems with my SUV. I now have 38000 miles. I drive my Ascender at highway speeds and I love the ride. When we travel, this is the car that we drive (I also have a Lincoln LS).

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  Lots of electrical probs starting at approx 80,000mi. Listed in order of failure: check engine light came on thermostat, speedometer, fuel gauge and oil pressure gauge at 105,000mi. - 2005 Isuzu Ascender
  By mysuzuki - May 29 - 11:54 am

  Dealer where I purchased the vehicle said none of the probs were covered under warranty because of the mileage. I called Isuzu corporate office and they said there is a "policy extension" on the fuel gauge to 120,000mi. The policy extension has a campaign number issued for it. " SB 13-04-S004 (fuel sensor).They referred me to another dealer who has ordered the part for the fuel gauge. However, they say the instrument cluster" needs to be replaced and it is not certain that the fuel gauge will work unless it is replaced and some or all of the probs may or may not work unless the instrument cluster is replaced. Footnote: A linkage part in the transmission shifted broke at approx 100,000mi

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  comfort - 2005 Isuzu Ascender
  By AzRed - January 11 - 4:40 am

  Strong engine. Tows trailers well. Front passenger seat is very uncomfortable on trips; my hands fall asleep due to the low hard arm rest. Envoys seats are much more comfortable.

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  Best choice - 2005 Isuzu Ascender
  By Bronco84 - October 20 - 12:56 pm

  In first 30 days drove over 4000 miles in rain, ice, sleet and snow. The vehicle performed beyond my expectations. Traction was great with total control. Only problem encountered was widnshield washer fluid freeze up with factory fluid at -30 degrees temperature. Engine performed great in mountains as well as on flatlands.

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  Still love my Ascender after 5 years! - 2005 Isuzu Ascender
  By FLAscenderDriver - June 18 - 10:23 pm

  After 5 years and nearly 60K miles, I still love my Ascender. It looks good, tracks well, doesnt slide around on wet roads, is comfortable, and has plenty of power when needed for towing a trailer or just passing other vehicles. I love the Bose system stereo and 6 disc changer, the woodgrain dash and steering wheel, leather interior, and especially the dual seat heaters on colder evenings! Its been a reliable vehicle with only general maintenance/tire upkeep, and had to replace the shocks this Spring. Well made and comfy, just wish it got better mpg when gas was so pricey.

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  Great vehicle - 2005 Isuzu Ascender
  By jackie - May 15 - 11:56 am

  I did plenty of research and drove about every other van and SUV that was a 7 seater. The Ascender is really a great vehicle. It is very roomy in all rows. It is versatile with folding seats. Storage is better than any other SUV I tried. I have every option on mine and it is really nice and very enjoyable to drive. I had a minivan for 16 years and really am pleased with this change. I still have room for 7 people but it is a whole lot more fun to drive. The gas mileage is not great, but it is not much different than my older van. I get about 16 in the city and I got 19 on my first long trip. I highly recommend this vehicle.

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  Great vehicle - 2005 Isuzu Ascender
  By jackie - May 15 - 4:10 am

  I did plenty of research and drove about every other van and suv that was a 7 seater. The Ascender is really a great vehicle. It is very roomy in all rows. IT is versatile with folding seats. Storage is better than any other SUV I tried. I have every option on mine and it is really nice and very enjoyable to drive. I had a minivan for 16 years and really am pleased with this change. I still have room for 7 people but it is a whole lot more fun to drive. The gas mileage is not great, but it is not much different than my older van. I get about 16 in the city and I got 19 on my first long trip. I highly recommend this vehicle.

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  I love my Ascender and Saved a Bunch - 2005 Isuzu Ascender
  By Rodney - November 21 - 6:03 pm

  I keep reading the reviews and cant understand why they rate it low. I love the vehicle. It has power and steers fine and is great for hauling stuff around. I really enjoy this vehicle and would really recommend it. I went from a 2001 Honda Passport (AKA Isuzu Rodeo) and was very comfortable with my purchase.