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:

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  Sweet - 2003 Isuzu Axiom
  By J&J - February 10 - 10:00 am

  Great Car/ SUV !! Its a shame ISUZU didnt market this vehicle as well as the rodeo or Amigo but in a way Im glad because Its nice not seeing one on every corner. Isuzu Axiom A Rare Breed

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  A year later it is still running well - 2002 Isuzu Axiom
  By trev4 - January 21 - 10:00 am

  After 20,000 miles in the first year and countless skiing trips to Mammoth mountain and Joshua Tree over the winter, we have had no problems with the Axiom, and it always is ready to be driven hard. Seems to be very reliable so far. Still a head turner, good performance and handling and room for a lot of gear. We will be running this guy for another 100,000 at least.

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  axiom - 2002 Isuzu Axiom
  By sueboys3 - January 9 - 2:00 am

  it is a very nice car that is fun to drive

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  Good for the long haul - 2003 Isuzu Axiom
  By dcguy - January 3 - 10:00 am

  Ive owned my Axiom base 4x4 for over a year now with 24,000 miles and not a single problem. However, I am very disappointed with the resale value and now feel locked in to owning this truck for many years in order to break even. Although they call this a "crossover", it is only that way in terms of looks. This thing is definitely still a truck underneath and not a very smooth performer, although it certainly has adequate power and feels very solid on the road. Its a good value if you can get one new for under $24k, otherwise there are a ton of other choices worth the extra price. You just have to compare everything, donÂ’t be sold on looks alone.

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  2002 Axiom - 2002 Isuzu Axiom
  By BSettle - December 29 - 10:00 am

  This car has been a good experience since day one. I drove the vehicle 2000 miles to the southwest at speeds between 75 and 85, and still averaged over 20MPG. Absolutely nothing but 2 oil changes.Would like a setting between the soft or performance settings on the suspension but can think of no other faults. I constantly get looks at he body with people asking what brand it is. Not many on the road and doesnt look like Blazer/ Explorer clones. Would recommend this vehicle and would buy another. VERY Satisfied!

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  GREAT vehicle for the price! - 2003 Isuzu Axiom
  By lanetk - November 4 - 2:00 am

  I bought mine in March of 02. I have really been pleased with the performance and features. I did alot of research and you cant get more for your money. 35k miles driven with only one minor problem. Highly recommended !!!

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  New Axiom Owner - 2002 Isuzu Axiom
  By RDL - November 2 - 10:00 am

  Ive owned this vehicle for about a month now, and I am very pleased with it. It handles very well. I drive on mountain roads with switchbacks and the handling for this type of vehicle is fantastic. The acceleration is great, and I like the Pwer Drive mode for passing uphill. The gas mileage has also been very good, averaging 18.5 MPG. I think one of the best things about the Axiom is the comfort of the cabin. I have the leather package and the seats are very comfortable with all the controls within easy reach.

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  LENS Review - 2004 Isuzu Axiom
  By Ach - October 29 - 2:00 am

  I have oewned a number of Isuzus and i cannot say enough about their reliability. Their looks are so-so but their engineering is superior.

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  fun to drive - 2002 Isuzu Axiom
  By bill - October 23 - 7:16 am

  Great power and good handling. Very reliable except that tranny out at 48,000 but is being replaced under warranty. Good amount of storage in back. Heavy sturdy feel but overall mpg suffers from weight and averages about 15. Blows around a bit in the wind.

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  Why Isnt The Axiom More Popular? - 2002 Isuzu Axiom
  By Dan H - October 15 - 2:00 am

  This vehicle is an excellent value if you can get it with both dealer and manufacturer rebates. Peppy engine, great fuel economy for an SUV (17% better than my 97 Jeep Gr. Cherokee), nicely equipped, the best warranty anywhere, unique & attractive styling. I dont understand why they arent selling better!