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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  Woah - 2002 Isuzu Axiom
  By drivzgrlzcrz - January 12 - 11:23 pm

  I will start off by saying I am very picky about my ride, and I love this vehicle it caught my eye at first but to be fair I looked around the lot only to return to it and peek inside, this is when I turned into a kid. Sweet interior, I knew 2 minutes into my test drive I was hooked. This SUV is unique and I get loads of compliments, I was previously interested in the Scion lineup & the Element but this is so me. The engine sounds like a tuned up car in power drive, super fun. Yes the pass doors could open more, the ride is wobbly in comfort, & the steering around turns uses more muscle but try to find an SUV that is perfect.. There isnt one, but this is very close.

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  2002 Axiom - 2002 Isuzu Axiom
  By Rev3Racer - January 11 - 10:00 am

  Bought the Axiom the week they came out. I was in the market for an SUV to pull my new bigger boat. Just had my 30,000 mile check-up. The vehicle has been flawless. In 30,00 miles, Ive had one driving light go, and thats t. I use Mobil 1 synthetic every 5,000 miles. The truck pulls my 23 foot boat with no problems. I would say my only complaint is the ride stinks on bumpy roads. It is great for highway diving, and handles way better than the other SUVs I tested. Overall, Im very happy with my decision. If you told me 3 ears ago, I would be driving an Isuzu, I probably would have laughed out loud. I was wrong. Its been a very good experience.

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  Isuzu Axiom - 2003 Isuzu Axiom
  By mandi - January 6 - 10:00 am

  I began leasing my 2002 Isuzu Axiom 8/01. At that time there was not much info on the vehicle. I am satisfied with appearance of the car, and the interior is comfortable, however there have been some problems which will prevent me from continuing to drive it when my lease is up. I believe the price is a bit high for what you get. There is a lot of rattling and noise coming from the dash. Also, there is some paint discoloration. The engine will also become very loud when the air conditioning is used. The ride can also be very bumpy. I will shop around a bit more next time.

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  Fun rig -- great in rain -- gas hog - 2002 Isuzu Axiom
  By toby - December 26 - 1:56 pm

  This rig is a real fun ride. Two suspension modes allows different choice of rides. Switch over to the TOD - this an excellent vehicle for wet conditions and fast take offs at stops. Push button HP boost allows more push for uphills and passing. After 35k miles my only problem with my Axiom is that - going 55 on a flat road - you will only get 22 mpg at best. In the city 11-17. This engine is inefficient. My GMC 1/2 ton Denali gets as good of gas mileage as this much smaller V6. All in all - this ride has got a stylish look, plenty of power for driving around town, moderate interior room, and multiple suspension modes for fun travel. It will keep you looking for cheaper gas.

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  isuzu Axm xs - 2002 Isuzu Axiom
  By kenn - December 10 - 2:00 am

  very strong engine, fast, responsive, plenty of room for 5 adult passengers.

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  isuzu Axm xs - 2002 Isuzu Axiom
  By KenN - December 10 - 2:00 am

  very strong engine, fast, responsive, plenty of room for 5 adult passengers.

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  Moment of Truth - 2002 Isuzu Axiom
  By Beverly Hills Axiom - December 5 - 2:00 am

  I had been looking at this SUV for over a full 2 months. I went to all other dealerships to check out their SUVs. I test drove the BMW, MERCEDES, LEXUS and ACURA. I just could not justify any of them with this vehicle. I mean, this SUV outperforms all of those namebrands by FAR. The warranty the comfort the reliability the pricing, oh my GOD, this is an amzing vehicle. I would recommend anyone out there to go and BUY THIS b4 it is too late. Isuzu has special 0% financing going on, you must TEST DRIVE THIS VEHICLE, and then just step on the gas, it overtakes just about any other mid-sized SUVs. In just under 8.9 seconds, it goes from 0 to 60 MPH.

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  2002 Izusu Axiom - 2002 Isuzu Axiom
  By kulhand57 - November 5 - 2:00 am

  I really like this vehicle compared to my last one(2002 Pontiac Grand Prix) I know that is comparing apples to oranges but oh well. I have drive the nissan xterra and pathfinder, but I felt this truck had a more smooth ride to it.

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  The Truth - 2002 Isuzu Axiom
  By The Truth - October 23 - 8:46 am

  Great truck, but only flaw is how the material used, such as paint and trim; they somewhat fade and come loose. Great overall truck, great bang for the buck!

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  First 200 miles - 2002 Isuzu Axiom
  By rkelly21 - October 22 - 2:00 am

  Before I say anything else, be sure to shop around for this vehicle. I saved about $4,000 by simply looking at dealerships that were about 20 miles away. I really like the look, feel and ride that the axiom provides. We were considering a rodeo but after test driving the axiom, there is no comparison. Its an excellent choice for most.