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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  Diamond in the Rough - 2002 Isuzu Axiom
  By twocar - March 28 - 10:00 am

  For anyone who hasnt considered the Isuzu Axiom a worthy competitor, I say...Drive One!! Isuzu hasnt put much into advertising this baby (and I could care less to remain one of the lucky exclusive folks to own one) but for power, looks, durability, etc. this is one potent pony. I got the base model with some options since the vehicle comes so well equipped anyway. The longer I drive this truck, the more pleased I am with my purchase. Am approaching the 6k mark and it has been extremely pleasant. This is one outstanding vehicle and if you were to compare Isuzus warranty to many competitors that makes its value another 2-3k.

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  10,000 miles with no problems - 2002 Isuzu Axiom
  By dcguy - March 22 - 10:00 am

  This vehicle is under-rated. The styling will turn some people off, but styling is one the major reasons I chose it (I like being different). Its a great value compared to other SUVs (blows away Jeep and Pathfinder). The ride is tough, so make no mistake you are definitely buying a TRUCK, it just happens to look more car-like, with very car-like amenities. The interior is a bit cheap and plastiky for a $30k MSRP. Im a bit worried now about the resale value. But this truck has a lot going for it, and in 10,000 miles has given me no problems except a few minor squeaks and rattles.

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  engine misfires - 2004 Isuzu Axiom
  By betrayed - March 18 - 10:00 am

  the direct inject engine stated to misfire at 3500 miles. after 8 trips to the dealer, the repair person says " this engine was designed to misfire". nearly had a couple of accidents when entering traffic and the engine misfires. now have a data recorder because they are not able to duplicate the problem even though the codes show engine misfire. i expected more.

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  Axiom - Best SUV buy for the money! - 2002 Isuzu Axiom
  By russ carroll - March 7 - 6:16 am

  After testing almost all of the mid size SUVs, the AXIOM was, by far, the best overall value for the money. ISUZU offered 0% financing or $4500 off MSRP making it cost around $23,500 with a moonroof, leather, 6 CD changer, Power everything, full size spare, and a very attractive interior black and tan trim. The 10 year/120,000 powertrain warranty was the icing on the cake for this SUV shopper. I highly recommend test driving the AXIOM and it should fit most empty nesters needs.

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  stylish, fun but needs more power - 2003 Isuzu Axiom
  By 14power - February 16 - 2:00 am

  Ive had this car 10,000 miles now -- if youre taller than 63" ask your dealer about where to go for a seat conversion -- more leg room is needed! The TOD is awesome. The V6, even though needs some help on hills, has more tourque than it appears. If youre in a hurry the TOD is a lifesaver on wet pavment. It engages at ease. the Sport mode will save your shocks and struts on pothole-filled roads. Dont be fooled by the size of the tires -- they could be wider for more grip around corners.

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  Pretty good - 2002 Isuzu Axiom
  By axiomdude - February 14 - 10:00 am

  I owed a BMW 325 and I love it, but I wanted to buy a SUV after looking for 6 months I decided to buy an Axiom, the price was good and I like it a lot, the only problems is that if feels more like a truck than a car and at the pump is quite expensive, but I wanted an SUV... LOL

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  Love my Axiom - 2002 Isuzu Axiom
  By dharleyp - January 26 - 2:00 am

  The Axiom is a wonderful car to drive. Very powerful and roomy for a smaller SUV. The dealership was also fantastic. The only automobile that I have ever owned where people stop me on the street and ask about it.

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  Unknown treasure - 2002 Isuzu Axiom
  By Axiomlover - January 2 - 10:00 am

  This is a great SUV for the money. You feel like you are driving a luxury vehicle, much better finish and ergonomics than Toyota Highlander or 4Runner. It gets plenty of looks and does not feel like a big truck.