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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  I love this truck - 2004 Isuzu Axiom
  By Lepperd - January 9 - 10:00 am

  I love my Axiom...it is rarer than a Lamborghini, or Bentley and it gets lots of looks!

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  Reliable beyond belief - 2004 Isuzu Axiom
  By Grendeldad - December 12 - 4:46 am

  I currently also own a Subaru WRX STI, a 03 Corvette convertible, and a 73 Trans AM. This variety only begins to indicate how many kind of cars I have owned - including Jeeps, Durangos, etc. This car is the most reliable car or truck I have ever owned by a mile. It has been driven 25,000 miles a year, including in Chicago winters, and not a single bolt, nut, or trim piece - much less anything mechanical - has broken, shaken loose, or quit. Not a single thing wrong. The pick up is very good and balance mileage. Yes, it rides a bit more like a truck, but we abuse this like a truck. Every person I have talked to who owns an Isuzu says the same; why they didnt sell more is a mystery.

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  I love this AXIOM XS! - 2004 Isuzu Axiom
  By LittleMissScubaLady - October 30 - 1:13 pm

  I just purchased my 2004 Isuzu Axiom XS and...I really...really LOVE this vehicle!!!! It is perfect for long trips... It does well on mountain roads...and it rides like a dream on the Florida Flatlands...LOL!!!! It is a sexy little ride for a 4X4! It handles well...and looks fabulous!!!!! I went from driving a sports car, to driving this cute little SUV...and I COMPLETELY LOVE IT!!!! The Axiom has a sports car appearance, yet works like a truck, and handles like the best of the more expensive SUVs! I am not sure why some wrote bad reviews for this SUV... in my opinion it is an absolutely awesome SUV!!!!! The MPG is running around 20 in town, and 22 on HWY. I am very, very happy with it!!!!!

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  Holding My Breath - 2002 Isuzu Axiom
  By vamc2004 - October 27 - 10:00 am

  Except for the pronounced rock & roll Im very impressed with this car. The two ride settings dont seem to be quite right. One too stiff, the other too soft. Many positive comments about the interior and especially the exterior. Somehow, paper litter seems to find its way from the glove compartment to the a/c blower unit. Probably bad design.

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  Poor house - 2003 Isuzu Axiom
  By S - October 12 - 4:53 am

  Since the engine blew 3 months after I bought it ($6000.00), I have spent an additional $4000.00 on repairing everything, and still brakes not working properly. I know I should have gotten rid of it a long time ago, but dealer screwed me so bad Im stuck with it for another 2 years. Id love to get some of my money back. I owned Isuzus for 8 years prior, but never again.

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  Update on ole reliable - 2004 Isuzu Axiom
  By Charbojr - September 29 - 9:56 am

  Its been over a year now with over 20K miles clocked and the Axe is holding up nice. We got new tires and that has made a tremendous difference in the handling of this vehicle (Bridgestone Dueler Alenza tires). No more tire squeal or front end plow in the rain and has smoothed out the ride a bit. However the fit and finish on this car is still unnerving. Our sunroof is shot and the door seams (stuffing) is pulling away from the doors. Not exactly the things you want happening to a $28K truck. Still the warranty has saved us and this SUV doesnt mind being abused. Thanks Isuzu.

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  what a great vehicle! - 2003 Isuzu Axiom
  By COLBY VANSCOY - August 14 - 10:00 am

  I HAVE HAD MY AXIOM SINCE 11/02. IT IS BY FAR THE BEST SUV I HAVE EVER OWNED. THE VALUE IS OUTSTANDING.

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  1st Isuzu for me - 2004 Isuzu Axiom
  By goodnu - June 20 - 2:00 am

  I liked the Isuzu appearance more than its bland competitors. The Axiom is a head-turner with many people asking about it. It is not the cookie-cutter SUV. It is worth the test drive.

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  Grace( getting somthing you donr deserve - 2002 Isuzu Axiom
  By jorge - June 1 - 2:00 am

  this is my first SUV and I really enjoy it. We bought the XS package and we feel extreme privilidge to own a car like this!! We were looking for a SUV as the Saturn or Rodeo but did not realize that we could get an Axiom for a little bit more with soooo many extras!! ITs AWESOME!

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  Great SUV Option - 2004 Isuzu Axiom
  By agrizzaffi - May 31 - 6:26 pm

  I really wish we hadnt traded in our Axiom. We purchased it used in 11/05 as a cash car to replace a beater that had just puttered out. Was very pleasantly surprised by the vehicle and quickly came to love it. Great mid-size design with quality interior layout and materials. It was gutsy in its acceleration and speed and was more than adequate towing (5000 lbs). Got very good gas mileage and was comfortable even on a 12 hour non-stop trip to Tennessee. I would definitely recommend as a starter car for a teenager, or a commuter car for anyone. Plenty of leg room in the back seat plus plenty of cargo space in the back.