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:
Showing 111 through 120 of 124.00-
Great SUV - 2004 Isuzu Ascender
By dice - February 4 - 10:00 amHad the SUV for the last few months and its been great. The entire family love the ride and interior room. A most have SUV!
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We like it! - 2005 Isuzu Ascender
By Gloria Scott - January 15 - 8:53 amAs this is a larger SUV than the one we traded (Mazda Tribute), we didnt that the ride would be quite so smooooth! Nice! Just hope the vehicle suits us as much as we like the handling - thus far.
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great space on wheels - 2004 Isuzu Ascender
By hermie - November 4 - 2:00 ami love the size of this vehicle, very versatile for packing kids to college, yard saleing and doing grocery shopping. fits kids or dogs very nicely.good driving visability.but doesnt feel like you are driving a huge thing
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Its a nice sporty off roader - 2005 Isuzu Ascender
By mlnkthr - August 23 - 7:26 pmLoads of power underneath the bonnet, plus its ever so sporty with a V8.
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problems - 2003 Isuzu Ascender
By fish98 - August 11 - 2:00 amI have 16,000 on my car, so far it has been in the shop three times. The power steering Pump and horn relay went out and repairs are taking over a week. Unfortunally everytime the car breaks, parts have to be order from the manufacture.
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Riding In Style - 2004 Isuzu Ascender
By Gerrie - July 19 - 10:00 amI really love the way the isuzu handles the road. I have a really smooth ride.
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the first 1000 miles - 2004 Isuzu Ascender
By Paul126 - June 12 - 10:00 amDont understand why Editors rate this truck at a 6.6. I traded dwon from a Suburban, and I find it a great vehicle. Handles well, has a nice short turniing radius, the seats are comfortable and its just the right size. I do miss the Burbs arm rests however!, Yes, the suspension is a bit spongy.......gas shocks may help that situation. But otherwise, Im lovin this SUV.
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Driving fun - 2003 Isuzu Ascender
By MICAH MAISAMARI - May 24 - 10:00 amBeing new and few on the road Iam regularly asked about its handling. I tell people how much fun to drive.
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Excellent - 2003 Isuzu Ascender
By alb_1974 - May 24 - 10:00 amSo far I have 600 miles on mu Isuzu Ascender and I love it, the ride is very smooth, quite and very confortable inside.
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Piece of Junk - 2003 Isuzu Ascender
By djsiek - March 13 - 10:00 amIt is a good thing Isuzu gives an extended warranty. You will need it. We have had one electrical problem after another. Because these problems are not the same in 3 or more cases we can not say this falls under the lemon laws of our state, but believe me we consider this car to be a lemon. The front passenger seat is extremely uncomfortable. The maximum gas mileage we have been able to get is 17mpg. Several exterior pieces are plastic and extremely easy to damage. Within 6 months of buying this vehicle started having squeaks that sound like loosing of hinges etc.. Do Not Buy an Isuzu Ascender if you are smart.
