Overview & Reviews

Launched in 2002 and retired just a couple of years later, the Isuzu Axiom came by its name in a thoughtful and democratic way. Its moniker wasn't the result of myriad brainstorming sessions by a cadre of marketing types locked away in some remote steel tower. Rather, Isuzu held a contest to see who could come up with the best name. "Axiom" was picked by a citizen of Redmond, Washington, who got a brand-new Isuzu Axiom for his efforts.

Unfortunately, this degree of thoughtfulness was not reflected in the Axiom's design and overall quality. The Axiom wasn't as new as it should have been: The SUV shared an aged platform with its sibling, the Rodeo. Ergonomics within its cabin were poor; many controls were non-intuitive and illogically placed. Legroom was cramped for those riding in back. And the Axiom's sluggish steering and non-existent road feel didn't exactly enhance its fun-to-drive quotient.

Still, this Isuzu had its assets. A chiseled chin and crossover-like styling gave the vehicle some visual distinctiveness, and its V6 was up for most of the tasks thrown its way. The Axiom's available four-wheel-drive system was also fairly sophisticated. But on the whole, the Axiom was lacking in too many areas. In our editors' ratings, the Axiom earned a "not recommended" score in all the key areas: dynamics, comfort, design/build quality and function. If you're shopping for a used SUV, you would be better served by pretty much any of the Axiom's competitors.

Most Recent Isuzu Axiom

The Axiom was a midsize SUV that was available in just one generation lasting from 2002-'04. There were two trims: base and XS. Base models offered standard features like full power accessories, air-conditioning, keyless entry, a CD changer and a trip computer. XS models stirred in the sugar by way of amenities like foglights, heated front seats and a power moonroof. The options list on base models included leather seats, a power moonroof and a trailer hitch; on XS models, a trailer hitch was initially the sole available option.

It was on the market for just a brief spell, but the Isuzu Axiom still witnessed a few changes. In 2003, the base trim was renamed the S. A CD changer was dropped from the standard features list on S models, instead becoming available as an option; also, chrome wheels and a roof rack were added to the options list for XS models. In 2004, the S model saw further erosion to its standard features list with the deletion of its cassette player. The SUV's speaker count also dropped from eight to six. All Axioms got a new chrome finish on the grille; the optional alloy wheels on the XS also got spruced up with a new chrome finish.

Onboard all Axioms was Isuzu's Intelligent Suspension Control, which utilized sensors to track vehicle variables like speed, engine rpm and braking. These sensors continually adjusted the Axiom's shock valving to match ride and handling to real-time driving conditions. Also, the system allowed drivers to choose between Sport and Comfort suspension modes. In practice, this setup wasn't nearly as impressive as it sounds. In Comfort mode, the Isuzu Axiom exhibited an unacceptable degree of roll and wallow. Selecting Sport mode brought some relief, but we were still disappointed with this area of the SUV's performance.

Isuzu's hauler was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 good for 230 horsepower and 230 pound-feet of torque; the engine was a retuned version of the V6 that motivated the Isuzu Trooper. In 2004, the Axiom's engine benefited from new gasoline "direct injection" technology that served to boost hp to 250 and torque to 246 lb-ft. Two- or four-wheel drive models were offered.

Four-wheel-drive Axioms came with Isuzu's "Torque on Demand" feature. Operated via a dash-mounted twist knob, this system utilized sensors to gauge throttle position and axle speeds, with the aim of predicting wheelspin so power could be transferred to the front wheels in an idealized fashion.

User Reviews:

• 

  I love it - 2002 Isuzu Axiom
  By sandy859 - February 16 - 10:00 am

  Its diffrent looking so you get the looks and compliments. It rides nice and has room for all 3 , yes 3 car seats in the back. The only trouble I had was getting the license plate on the front. Will no doubt trade it in 4 years for a 2006 Axiom. I would like to see the 6 disc cd player someplace else other than in my storage compartment, where I keep my junk.

• 

  Dont hesitate to buy! - 2002 Isuzu Axiom
  By Debi - February 9 - 2:00 am

  I thought I was going to buy a Volvo wagon until I saw the Axiom! There is no comparison once you consider features, specifications, warranty, and price. Im a small person (52"), and Ive never had a car that fits me better. My husband (66")is very comfortable in my Axiom. I have almost 9,000 miles on it, and I havent had one problem. I did the mfgrs. suggested 7500 mile maintenance, and everything checked out great. The cost was reasonable for the service as well. I usually have buyers remorse over major buying decisions, but not this time. Dont be afraid of this car... it is a tremendous value, and a really fun and functional family car.

• 

  You get what you pay for - in a good way - 2003 Isuzu Axiom
  By Cosmo - December 12 - 10:00 am

  True, the storage space is limited and the ride is not as smooth as the Highlander or Endeavor, but the price is much lower, too. My Axiom seems well made, is really fun to drive and I got the XS 4x4 fully loaded (minus the trailer hitch) for under $26K.

• 

  zero resale value - 2002 Isuzu Axiom
  By 0resalevalue - December 12 - 10:00 am

  If you are 6ft tall & have big feet, DONT BUY IT. hit my head on tailgate, rear doors dont open far enough to easily get in and out. gas pedal and brake are so close together you hit them both with big feet. the steering wheel is too far away No room to stretch out when using cruise on the highway. I was offered $14,000 in trade today for a vehicle that sold for $29k less than two years ago. I think all these reviews are input by dealers and salesman or reviews like mine are deleted. good news, my 15 yr old daughter likes it, i hope she desrves it when I give it to her

• 

  Different but great - 2002 Isuzu Axiom
  By SUVBOY - November 28 - 10:00 am

  I liked the fact that the Axiom was different. The roof rack installed improved the look dramatically. This is my second Axiom. First was bought a year ago and stolen. The gray leather with black exterior is a big improvement. Engine performs well. Fuel mileage is only ok though. Considering the deals available. The Axiom is a great value for the money. I think Isuzu builds a pretty good vehicle overall. My previous vehicle was a Nissan Pathfinder which had many major problems after 30,000 miles.

• 

  To new to know long time - 2002 Isuzu Axiom
  By rtaft - November 22 - 10:00 am

  My first impressions are strong. I do about 50/50 miles on the highway and local driving. The sport suspension and power switch allows me to get on the highway,as fast as my Chyrsler 300m. The looks are unique... So far so good..I like it R taft South Florida

• 

  Best vehicle I have ever owned - 2004 Isuzu Axiom
  By Lee Centner - November 18 - 10:00 am

  This vehicle has great performance without sacrificing fuel mileage. I regularly get 24-25 mpg on the highway and 17-20 mpg in town. It is very comfortable and fun to drive and I have yet had any maintenance problems. This with the great looks make it the best vehicle I have ever owned.

• 

  Isuzu Axiom - 2002 Isuzu Axiom
  By Axiom_Owner - October 16 - 10:00 am

  Outstanding car. Still not seen on the streets too much, which is great. Excellent ride and very good power with a car this size. The value with the features that are standard on this car are top class. Many many small things that you have to pay as extras in other cars. We really love this car and its a major step away from the Rodeo.

• 

  Lota Bang for the Bucks - 2002 Isuzu Axiom
  By rcopa2 - October 7 - 10:00 am

  You sure get alot for the money. The interior is great, lot of nice touchs. Excellent fit and finish. Feels and looks well put together. Its just loaded with features, feels like a high end suv. Its even got a full alloy spare. I really like all the stainless and chrome touchs inside and out. Its not for everyone but I am really enjoying this Isuzu.

• 

  Reliably Different - 2002 Isuzu Axiom
  By T Murray - October 7 - 10:00 am

  Does not look like other SUVs which I prefer. Over 30K Miles and not one problem of any type. Cross country trip in winter 2003 Seattle to Boston averaged 21.4 mpg on reg gas with car loaded to max. Torque on Demand 4 wheel drive system great in Ice and snow. Wife commuted in Boston winter weather in 04 without a problem. Dual mode suspension great for freeway flats or in the mountains. Went from a Mitsu Montero to Axiom for better milage and performance and like the size better. No recalls no problems, decent milage for 4 wheel drive. What more can I ask for. Definitely under-rated by writers.