2008 Isuzu Ascender Review

The Ascender is a midsize SUV that debuted in 2003 to replace the Trooper. It’s based on the same platform as the Trailblazer and the Envoy. It originally debuted as a seven-passenger model, with a five-passenger version being added for 2004. However, after 2006, the five-passenger is the only model offered. Isuzu is expected to leave the American market entirely by 2009.

The BuyingAdvice Team Says:

All in all, we really can’t see much reason to buy an Isuzu Ascender. It’s reliability and crashworthiness is low, its interior doesn’t live up to its cousins, and seeing how Isuzu is leaving the U.S., you’ll be hard pressed to find a dealership for service. The Ascender is on the way out, and honestly, we think that its exit will make room for better options.

What’s New For 2008:

What is the Predicted Reliability:

J.D. Power gives the Ascender 2 stars for dependability. Problems with the Ascender include water leaks, vehicle noise, transmission shorts, dead batteries, and failing air conditioners. It’s been recalled five times for fractured power steering hoses, loose windshields, faulty latches, and flaky turn signals. Expect below average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for three years or 50,000 miles.

Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:

The Ascender received 3.5 stars in government frontal crash tests and 5 stars in side tests. In IIHS tests, it earned “Acceptable” for the front, “Marginal” for the side, and “Poor” for the rear. Anti-lock brakes, head side airbags, and stability and traction control come standard.

Pros and Cons:

Pros
+ Less expensive than its GM counterparts
+ Long standard warranty
+ Now includes side airbags

Cons
– Few dealerships available
– Old design
– Poor crash test scores

Head-To-Head Competition:

The Chevrolet Equinox gets slightly better gas mileage and can tow more, but costs a few hundred more, lacks side airbags, and has 20 less hp. The Honda Pilot has a CD changer, can tow more, and includes a standard third row, but has 40 less hp. The Kia Sorento costs about a thousand less, includes AWD, and can tow more, but has 20 less hp.

What Others Are Saying:

“Likewise, while I prefer cars and crossovers to truck-based SUVs, I can see myself owning an Ascender. The high points are many, and the faults are common to most SUVs in this size class. By purchasing your GM-designed SUV from an Isuzu dealer, you get the advantage of a longer warranty and, if you’re looking for a model with less equipment, a lower starting price. It makes me want to dig up the old marketing cliché: Why go anywhere else?” – About.com

“If you’re into big trucks and don’t mind the slightly gawky exterior, then the Ascender doesn’t look a bad deal. Until, that is, you open the door and realize that you’re plunking down a minimum of $28,000 for a vehicle that has the interior quality of my daughter’s Barbie car. Aside from the questionably colored interior trim on our two-wheel-drive Ascender, the interior seems even more low rent than its GM equivalents.” – Automobile Magazine

“For the money, I can get a nicely equipped Explorer or a Jeep Grand Cherokee — with the all-wheel drive. That seems like a no-brainer, big warranty or not. I’ll gladly pay for the extra features, but the warranty doesn’t seem to make that much sense unless you’re getting the equipment you want.” – The Detroit News

Read more about the 2008 Isuzu Ascender at the Isuzu manufacturer web site.