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:
Showing 71 through 80 of 238.00-
Not for Kids - 2002 Isuzu Axiom
By SAHC - July 2 - 2:00 amOverall, nice looking vehicle, fun to drive, however there is not enough room for a rear-facing car seat in the back. The back doors do not open wide enough to easily put in a car seat with a baby latched in, and when the carseat is in, the front 2 seats have to be adjusted all the way forward, which leaves no leg room to drive. Back seat needs to be roomier.
-
Good Choice - 2002 Isuzu Axiom
By Endewardt - May 19 - 2:00 amI bought my Axiom w/h mixed feelings. There are a lot of choices in this Price range. I liked the looks and styling. I do not regret buying this car. Its a lot of fun to drive and it moves - quick - . My friend bought a Ford Explorer at the same time and has been back for repairs twice already. Yes, It was a good choice. I am still having fun driving it.
-
nothing to complain about - 2002 Isuzu Axiom
By JayDLaw - May 14 - 2:00 amI only had my Axiom 1 week. It has been great! The interior give the vehicle a luxorious feel. The steering, and excelleration is great. Both my father and sister own Blazers and they love my Axiom. gas milage is not a concern considering that it is an SUV, you want better milage buy a civic. Everyone complements me on my purchase. Accellerates and turns much better in sport suspension mode.
-
Safety - 2002 Isuzu Axiom
By BISBISS - May 13 - 12:36 amI was rear-ended; I was at a stand still and was hit from behind at about 70 miles per hour. My Axiom was thrown into the guardrail at a great rate of impact. I walked away. There is nothing left of my SUV except an untouched driver and passenger seat. Way to go on safety. The fireman told me he had seen three Axioms involved in bad accidents like mine and the drivers all lived.
-
Never will I buy another isuzu - 2003 Isuzu Axiom
By NeverAgainIsuzu - May 9 - 10:00 amThis SUV is a death trap. I am convinced that one day it will get me into an accident. Trying to stop my 2002 Isuzu Axiom is like trying to stop a freight train. The "abs" kicks in on dry pavement. The vehicle continues to move an extra 3 to 5 terrifying feet when stopping on on dry pavement with the brakes fully engaged from a speed of no more than 20 mph, and of course the "abs" kicks in for no apparent reason. Three attempts to contact dealers have been to no avail ... what can the dealer do ? ... this appears to be a mechanical flaw with the suv ... Japanese engineering at its WORST.
-
Very Unique - 2003 Isuzu Axiom
By JohnnyLunchBox - April 21 - 2:00 amI have 1600 miles already, a few problems. Squeaky rear suspension, blower motor needs replacing, stock tires are terrible. Well engineered and build quality is OK, but not as good as my Nissan Frontier that it has replaced. The transmission works well, and towing ability has been excellent. Despite the minor problems I still love my Axiom!!! I use it as a weekend vehicle and look forward to driving it.
-
Underwhelmed by internet reviewers - 2004 Isuzu Axiom
By Jake4551 - April 10 - 10:00 amThe big problem with this vehicle is some of the ridiculous reviewers comments throughtout the internet. Do yourself a favor checkout, Car and Driver, MotorTrend, Fourwheeler magazine, or their respective dotcom sites for a true review. Purchased this vehicle because I wanted a crossover, but I wanted a truck frame like my previous 2000 Grand Cherokee. Loved the styling, the interior, biggest complaint, drivers seat doesnt slide back enough, power seats should be six way not four way. Ride is no more rough in sport mode than my Grand Cherokee. Compared this to Durango, ugly front end, horrible gas mileage, 14 on the highway,and an Envoy,uninspired
-
had my axiom for 5 years - 2002 Isuzu Axiom
By Trish - April 1 - 1:30 pmOne thing that I loved about the axiom was the outside design. But dont let that fool you. I have had nothing but troubles with this SUV from the transmission, to the electrical, and the list continues. I am very disappointed in Isuzu and will never by one again. Plus on top of all the problems the parts are hard to find and real expensive. To make matter worst this car bounces like crazy no matter what Ive done. Buyer beware!
-
Axiom - 2004 Isuzu Axiom
By bill1446 - February 1 - 2:00 amGreat power smooth ride in either mode, easy to drive and see out of. Controls are very easily accesed. Great looking SUV
-
Ole Reliable? Well See. - 2004 Isuzu Axiom
By Charbojr - January 15 - 10:00 am3000 miles and overall I like this truck. It looks great and handles well. Has more power than my 99 Saab 9-5SE. Its perfect for the foul weather here in NE. Has had some strange quirks but its an Isuzu not a Land Rover. Plus a warranty youll love to love.
