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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  2003 Isuzu Ascender Ltd - 2003 Isuzu Ascender
  By Alfred T. Child - November 22 - 6:36 pm

  Better interior lighting is needed.

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  Bargain for a solid SUV - 2006 Isuzu Ascender
  By John - November 22 - 4:20 am

  A solidly built SUV at a great price is good choice for anyone who wants a basic utility vehicle. The engine is great, with lots of power and good gas mileage. Speaking of gas mileage, remember, if you live in a cold climate and have a lead foot, every SUV will eat gas, but GMs powerful engine lets you use a light foot and still get sufficient power. I average 19 mpg in everyday driving, 21 on the highway as long as you keep it below 80. Thats probably as good as real-world results for most crossovers. So if what you want is a car that has more room, get a crossover. If you like to haul, tow and drive on dirt, these GMs are good choices, and the Isuzu has the best warranty (pre 2007).

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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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  Should have known better... - 2003 Isuzu Ascender
  By shumuzu - August 21 - 10:00 am

  Bought Ascender in Feb.03 & was in the shop by March, and at least 6-8 times since. The a/c odors (could not sit in the car until we blew out the system with all the windows down.) Repaired 10/03,still smells. There are many interior parts inferior in quality. THe gear shifter came off in my hand, stearing wheel whines,plastic compartments wont shut/open properly, the radio/cd player has been replaced 1 time,& parts have again been ordered for a repair.The "old pick-up truck" rusty, screachy sound they cant seem to find. Although anyone riding in or near the car can here us coming!

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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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  My Truck - 2006 Isuzu Ascender
  By Rebecca - August 11 - 12:06 pm

  I love this truck. I drove from Virginia to California and it was the most comfortable ride I have ever had. Even with towing a U-haul trailer this truck had no problems going up the mountain and was so easy to handle. I am a person who trades vehicles in every 2 years, I believe I will have this truck for a lot longer.

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  2003 Isuzu Ascender LS 2WD 5.3 V8 - 2003 Isuzu Ascender
  By robertabf - August 3 - 10:00 am

  Owned an Envoy, but was looking for the V8 engine. The GM Envoy/Trailblazer has great front leg room for a tall person, so it had to be either the Envoy or Trailblazer XL models since they are the only ones available with the V8.until I saw the Ascender that is!...WOW It is the only way to get two-tone paint and that really makes it look great. The V8 is very powerful and much more fun to drive than the I6. Very quiet running and the ride is great...Really appreciate the details put into this vehicle. Great stereo and rear air too...I think Isuzu could sell a lot more of these if they were more available.

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  Assender Review - 2004 Isuzu Ascender
  By C. Finch - June 2 - 2:00 am

  Have had several electrical problems. Back wiper works sometimes other times you must turn key off start again and it will work. Rear windows hardware in door was replaced electric window dropped in door. (broken hardware, happened with 3600 miles. serpentine belt went bad, was replaced at 10000 miles.

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  Good so far - 2004 Isuzu Ascender
  By Billy Dwyer - May 27 - 6:06 pm

  We traded in a 2002 Ford Explorer. The Ascender rides smoother and has more options than the aforementioned. I like the towing capabilities and options that are available on the Ascender. So far we have no complaints.

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  A smooth and quiet ride with value - 2004 Isuzu Ascender
  By tom grunden - March 8 - 2:00 am

  We looked at most of the larger SUVs before buying last winter. We decided on the Ascender strictly on the basis of highway ride coupled with price. We found nothing in the market close in this combination without adding $6,000 to $10,000 to the purchase price.