Reviews
2003 Isuzu Ascender front exterior for review
Continued from Page 1

Available in S, LS and top-of-the-line Limited trims, the Ascender comes with either two-wheel drive or on-demand four-wheel drive. Front styling, featuring a chrome grille, resembles that of Isuzu's smaller Rodeo and Rodeo Sport. An aerodynamically shaped front fascia incorporates halogen headlights and standard integrated foglamps. Over-fenders and body-side moldings are standard, along with a roof rack and sporty 17-inch alloy wheels. The Limited edition gets running boards and a special monotone paint treatment, which gives the vehicle a rather stark appearance. A power moonroof is installed on both the LS and Limited. Side-impact airbags are included on all models.

2003 Isuzu Ascender V-8 engine
Running smoothly and quietly, the Ascender accelerates vigorously from a standstill?more so if it holds the V-8 engine.

Running smoothly and quietly, the Ascender accelerates vigorously from a standstill—more so if it holds the V-8 engine. Rack-and-pinion steering helps give the Ascender sure and confident handling for a sport-utility vehicle. With its standard premium-ride suspension, the ride is quite cushioned on ordinary pavement.


When it's rolling down the road, the Ascender doesn't really feel especially huge. Seat bottoms are somewhat hard, with virtually no side bolstering to keep occupants in place through curves and corners. Otherwise, the interior is attractive and appealing. Second-row split-folding seats can recline and have a flip-and-tumble feature for access to the third row, where two full-size adults can be seated.


With the second- and third-row seats folded down, cargo space amounts to just over 100 cubic feet. Under-the-floor storage space is provided, and a rear cargo shelf offers adjustable height levels. Leather-trimmed upholstery and power heated front seats are standard in the Ascender Limited. Both the LS and the Limited include GM's OnStar emergency/communications system and a Travelnote voice recorder.

2003 Isuzu Ascender rear cargo area
With the second- and third-row seats folded down, cargo space amounts to just over 100 cubic feet.

When placed in "Auto-4WD" mode, a 4x4 Ascender automatically engages four-wheel drive with no driver input, transferring engine torque to the front wheels as needed. The driver can also select 4-Lo range for demanding off-road treks, 2-Hi for rear-drive operation on dry pavement, or 4-Hi to lock in a 50/50 front/rear torque split for continuous off-road running. A locking rear differential is included with LS and Limited models.

Continued on Page 3

Copyright autoMedia.com 2000-2009



 



Related Articles
2003 Hyundai Santa Fe
2003 Kia Sorento
2003 BMW X5 4.6is
2003 Jeep Liberty V6 4x4
2003 Nissan Pathfinder


autoMedia Car Blog
Nissan Back on Track with 2010 Lineup
In the late ‘90s, Nissan brought a handful of automotive journalists into its California headquarters. The company was struggling, and it seemed as ... more...

autoMedia CARnival 11-06-09: This week in Auto Blogs
It's the week ending November 6, and we've browsed our favorite automotive blogs all week long to gather the highlights from each.SEMA is not quite ov ... more...

Pricing: 2010 Suzuki Kizashi sedan
Suzuki is coming out swinging with its all-new Kizashi sedan, striking at the vital midsized sedan segment. Each Kizashi features all-wheel drive and ... more...


Forum Highlights
Re: Aluminum wheels and a flat tire
I am sure you have your tire changed by now, but this is a common problem when using aluminum wheels.  Once you realize you have a problem, hitti ... more...

Re: Chevy 3.8L Engine cutout
 I would call it in intermediate job.  You will need some special tools to do it, but if you have some experience doing repairs, and not jus ... more...

Re: The correct Voltage/Amps for Horn??
I'm not sure I have ever seen an actual horn go bad.  When they do stop working, it is usually an electrical issue.  You want to make sure i ... more...


Car Buying Guide

QUICK SEARCH:


Specs, prices, photos & more
SEARCH BY BODY STYLE:
FREE New Car Price Quote
Get the best price - it's easy!
Zip Code

Used Car Buying Guide


2000-2009 autoMedia.com Inc. All Rights Reserved.