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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BEST VALUE FOR THE MONEY - 2003 Isuzu Axiom
By pchamp02 - September 7 - 10:00 amMy Axiom drives and feels like it should cost thousands more. Before purchasing the Axiom, I test drove several SUVs and the ride and handling I got on the Axiom, was almost equal to my second choice, the Volvo V70, but about $8000.00 less. Of course I have had no problems with it yet, since I havent had it very long, but I will let you know if anything happens.
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Good so far - 2002 Isuzu Axiom
By Pitt - August 30 - 1:10 pmI bought the Axiom pre-owned and at 73,000+ miles it seems to be a good buy as SUVs go. I havent had any complaints that the factory could have addressed with the exception of the sound system. Getting the base model I didnt expect much but the speakers are pretty dull. I have read reviews about the tires as well and mine looked to be a fresh set, but they do squeal with most maneuvering action that didnt get the squeal from my last car.
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The highlight of my day! - 2004 Isuzu Axiom
By swymjym - August 19 - 2:00 amEverytime I step into my sporty Axiom I revel in its sheer magnificence. I am proud to be an owner of such a great vehicle. My friends all love the ride it delivers, and it does not fail to turn heads. I cannot understand why Edmunds bashes the Axiom.?.?. The car feels and looks like a luxury vehicle, but costs significantly less. Buy one if you have a chance!!!
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Great car! - 2002 Isuzu Axiom
By Shayne Brandon - July 31 - 2:00 amI was wanting to replace my 97 Toyota Camry LS with a similar car. I was looking for comfort and a nice ride. After looking at Honda and Nissan vehicles with a price tag that was way too high, I found the Axiom. Since the Axiom replaced my Camry, I look at it and use it like a car. We have a pickup for most hauling. As a car, its the best Ive ever driven. Spacious, smooth, and quietier than most midsize cars, its a bargain coming in about $5000 less - and its AWD!
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Great vehicle - 2002 Isuzu Axiom
By vantas - July 12 - 10:00 amAll around great vehicle. Beautiful interior, no hassle pricing, great warranty, plenty of room, plenty of power...
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This is a great vehicle!! - 2002 Isuzu Axiom
By TatMan1973 - June 7 - 10:00 amFell in love at first sight! Test drove everything from a 2002 Trooper, to a 2001 Jeep Grand Cherokee with all the trimmings and nothing matched the comfort, ride, experince, or value of the Axiom! Very nice... No problems besides it was used!
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Better than you think - 2002 Isuzu Axiom
By dp - May 30 - 10:00 amForget the biased Edmunds review...this car outperforms its peer group in almost all classes. The ride is comfortable and peppy with great all weather performance. Build quality is excellent with no problems after 15k ahrd miles. Looks are love/hate but if you love this is the one!
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the best suv under $50,000 dollars - 2002 Isuzu Axiom
By dc4611 - May 24 - 10:00 amI was set on the mercedes suv or a lexus rx300 .I looked on the web and could not find that much info on the new axiom.After comparing 13 different suvs the choice was clear.It has an excellent ride and great power.230 horses under the hood and 230 ft lbs of torque and it feels like a whole lot more!Not to mention a 10 yr 120,000 mile powertrain warranty that covers almost everything under the hood and axles.
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This is a great car! - 2002 Isuzu Axiom
By John Barnes - May 2 - 10:00 amThis is a great vehicle. I have had zero problems with it. The towing capacity is fantastic considering it is a smaller SUV. I have had the opportunity to tow a trailer that is over 2,000 pounds and you can hardly feel it. I love this SUV.
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solid value - 2002 Isuzu Axiom
By integrity - March 25 - 2:00 amIsuzu make some of the most dependable suvs in the worl. Ive had a rodeo, trooper and now the best of all; an axiom. I would recommend it over other suvs in its price class. Better handling, acceleration, and traction than trooper or jeep cherokee in my opinion of course.
