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 it - 2002 Isuzu Axiom
By sandy859 - February 16 - 10:00 amIts diffrent looking so you get the looks and compliments. It rides nice and has room for all 3 , yes 3 car seats in the back. The only trouble I had was getting the license plate on the front. Will no doubt trade it in 4 years for a 2006 Axiom. I would like to see the 6 disc cd player someplace else other than in my storage compartment, where I keep my junk.
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Different but great - 2002 Isuzu Axiom
By SUVBOY - November 28 - 10:00 amI liked the fact that the Axiom was different. The roof rack installed improved the look dramatically. This is my second Axiom. First was bought a year ago and stolen. The gray leather with black exterior is a big improvement. Engine performs well. Fuel mileage is only ok though. Considering the deals available. The Axiom is a great value for the money. I think Isuzu builds a pretty good vehicle overall. My previous vehicle was a Nissan Pathfinder which had many major problems after 30,000 miles.
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To new to know long time - 2002 Isuzu Axiom
By rtaft - November 22 - 10:00 amMy first impressions are strong. I do about 50/50 miles on the highway and local driving. The sport suspension and power switch allows me to get on the highway,as fast as my Chyrsler 300m. The looks are unique... So far so good..I like it R taft South Florida
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Cream of the Crop!!! - 2002 Isuzu Axiom
By Dan Banapoochi - August 23 - 10:00 amThis suv is the best I ever owned and I had them all. I got rid of my Hyuindi sante fe to buy this and it was like night and day. I would compare this with a Toyota 4 runner without the extra cost to buy. For a suv it is surprisingly comfortable and it handles well. Would highly recomend to anyone who is looking for a Suv.
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Why all the bad press? - 2002 Isuzu Axiom
By chapy - August 6 - 10:00 amIts no Acura as far as quality goes but considering what I paid I believe it to be a pretty good value and have enjoyed driving it so far... Some of these editors must have an axe to grind with Isuzu.
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Fear Itself... - 2002 Isuzu Axiom
By XST it - June 23 - 10:00 amThis is a deceptively nice vehicle (because of Isuzus reputation and lack of advertising, nobody knows about it, making you think its not that good). It runs great (next year, supposed to get a 250hp Direct Injection V6 and a Diesel V6, too) but the shocks seem a bit overkill. Got some shocks from my mates in Australia (Old Man Emu- strange name/ tough, great shocks) to replace the electronic ones which would have been expensive to replace one-for- one when they wore out; just cut to the chase and got rid of them. Ride is much better, just dont have "choices"; net result is big plus. Whyd they get rid of the "black & tan" leather?
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Beware! - 2002 Isuzu Axiom
By bmprigge - June 5 - 5:50 pmIve had this car for a little over two years and it is in the shop again for a blown engine. The last time, it had an issue with the engine and it completely seized, this time a rod shot through the block. Its a pain having to have it in the shop so often (I had to get a new transmission in it about 6 months ago) but I cant bring myself to trade it in because I LOVE DRIVING IT!! I would say that if you can find one, buy it (but make sure you get an extended warranty).
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looks smooth but has bumpy ride - 2002 Isuzu Axiom
By shannon - April 11 - 11:03 pmThe suv looks nice and has a lot of special features other trucks dont have. The leather interior is great as is the CD changer.
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Best buy - 2002 Isuzu Axiom
By Bill - March 28 - 12:43 pmA good vehicle with a bad rep. I dont know why people are ripping on the transmission, which is the same exact transmission that was in the Trooper from 90 to 02 and is also in many GM vehicles. Great engine and serious acceleration. Never left me stranded. Only typical wear and tear in the 5 years Ive had it. Wont sell it because its resale is lower than its actual value.
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axiom - 2003 Isuzu Axiom
By TJMAN - March 25 - 10:00 amThe Axiom from Isuzu has a styling that is eye catching and modern. The interior works well however the rear seats needs to becme a little more simplistic to fold down. All in all a great value in 4 x 4s.
