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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  its a blast to drive - 2002 Isuzu Axiom
  By tel1441 - December 8 - 10:00 am

  Bought this car to be a third car for 2 drivers. What a blast. I enjoy getting in this car. Improved the gas mileage by going 100% sythetic oil and using 89plus gas. Saw my average fuel economy go up by 2 miles per gallon. I drive alot of city with ac on.

• 

  What a rocket. - 2002 Isuzu Axiom
  By ahmadsa - December 8 - 10:00 am

  Ive had this vehicle for 4 months now and absolutely love it. Ive out run BMW X5 3.0 and lexus RX 300 in pickup and on the higway. I love the roar of the engine and immediate throttle response. Breaking is also excellent. The only thing Ive had a problem with was the rear view mirror that came off, but the dealer fixed it at no cost. This truck is not for the nerds. I would only recommend this vehicle to a speed enthusiast. It takes no prisnors...speed speed and more speed. Wow, what a rush.

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  My Axiom - 2003 Isuzu Axiom
  By Alex23 - November 26 - 2:00 am

  Overall a great SUV for the money. Comfortable, but truck-like in its ride Isuzu really has done a god job. Ive had two different Troopers prior to this and they dont even compare. Also, this is just an overall great looking ride.

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  An educated review - 2002 Isuzu Axiom
  By the truth be known - November 24 - 12:13 pm

  Neat SUV! I would say that this is one of the most unique SUVs that I have ever seen. It is nice to own a vehicle that not everyone has. This truck is awesome. I did have to replace the front shocks and rear brake rotors when I purchased my Axiom, but I can honestly say that this comes with all USED vehicles. If you expect a vehicle in mint condition, get a NEW one. I thoroughly enjoy all that my Axiom has to offer.

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  Axiom driving - 2002 Isuzu Axiom
  By tom mcgrath - November 20 - 3:00 am

  The vehicle has been quite good and not required other than normal maintenance. Got it to tow my boat and it is quite adequate. Need to replace rear wiper arm and it is a very non standard design, though the front arms are standard. Cant buy it anywhere. Top heavy like all SUV/4wd and need to be aware of that. Gas mileage is poor - average 19.5 under the best of conditions, much worse with a load.

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  2002 Isuzu Axiom - 2003 Isuzu Axiom
  By uofpittpanthers - November 6 - 2:00 am

  Very happy with vehicle...actually over 23 mpg highway mileage with reg. gas,,,,compare to dollar for dollar against highlander or other comparable mid size and you wont think twice about buying this vehicle.

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  My Review - 2002 Isuzu Axiom
  By donster - September 20 - 10:00 am

  Every week someone in a parking lot will come up to me and ask me about this car. I used to own Saabs just because they were unique. Now that the family is a little larger, I was looking for an SUV. The Axiom is unique in its styling both inside and out.

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  Solid SUV - 2004 Isuzu Axiom
  By who knew - August 27 - 2:00 am

  This is an outstanding SUV that is not run of the mill. Its distinctive looks and strong performance are great. All the options for a final price in the mid 20s after rebate. This includes a 6-CD changer. There is very good reliability and warranty to provide piece of mind.

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  axiom - 2003 Isuzu Axiom
  By CAROL M - July 21 - 2:00 am

  great value and style

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  Axiom is cool! - 2002 Isuzu Axiom
  By vuzl - July 2 - 2:00 am

  This is a fun to drive, capable on- and off- road vehicle. Very quick to accelarate. I love it. For a good price it has everything that any luxury vehicle has. Well, there two drawbacks that i see: the rear door glass part doesnt open separately and the driver sit has limited ajustments.