Vehicle Overview
What Isuzu calls its most-sophisticated sport utility vehicle debuted for the 2002 model year. A direct-injection gasoline engine for the Axiom will be available for 2004. Fitted with variable valve timing, the new 3.5-liter V-6 engine promises better performance and a 10-percent improvement in fuel economy. Direct injection improves engine combustion by injecting vaporized fuel, under high pressure, directly into the combustion chamber. The direct-injection V-6 produces 250 horsepower and 247 pounds-feet of torque, vs. 230 hp and 230 pounds-feet of torque for the previous 3.5-liter engine. Idle noise has also been reduced.
The Axiom is more curvaceous in appearance than a typical SUV, and it exhibits some characteristics of a minivan. An intelligent suspension with Sport and Comfort modes adjusts shock-absorber damping to 17 settings to suit various road conditions. A six-speaker 140-watt stereo is standard in 2004 models, but the cassette player has been dropped and the automatic transmission loses its Power button.
At the same time, the Axiom is fit for true offroad operation, with body-on-frame construction and a Low range for its Torque-On-Demand four-wheel-drive system. A rear-wheel-drive version is also available.
The Axiom is manufactured at a Lafayette, Ind., plant that also turns out Subarus. Base and upscale XS editions of the Axiom are available.
Exterior
Stylists began with a series of concept vehicles that flaunted a knife-edge design. The production model features an arched roofline and sculpted wheel arches over geometric-shaped, six-spoke, 17-inch aluminum wheels. A bold grille displays gaping air intake slots. The Axiom rides a 106.4-inch wheelbase, measures 182.6 inches long overall and stands 67.2 inches tall.
Isuzu claims that the Axiom has a lower center of gravity than typical SUVs, but its ground clearance remains ample. The front bumper height is comparable to passenger cars in order to minimize damage during a collision.
Interior
Five people occupy a sculpted-theme interior that features four-way power adjustment for the driver and a split, folding rear seat with fold-down armrests. Because the vehicles hip line is lower than usual and matched by a higher belt line, the windowsills are somewhat high.
Standard equipment includes cloth and vinyl upholstery, heated power mirrors, a tilt steering wheel and cruise control. Leather upholstery and heated front seats go into the XS version. Cargo volume totals 85.4 cubic feet when the backseat is folded down.
Under the Hood
Isuzus new direct-injection 250-hp, 3.5-liter V-6 engine teams with a four-speed-automatic transmission. The Torque-On-Demand four-wheel-drive system automatically transfers power away from wheels that are slipping and incorporates a Low range for offroad treks. A dashboard switch selects either Sport or Comfort mode.
Safety
Antilock brakes are standard, and side-impact airbags are not offered.
Driving Impressions
Drivers can expect rather brisk yet smooth acceleration from a standstill, as well as energetic performance for passing and merging. Excellent automatic-transmission response is another bonus, but a lot of downshifting takes place on serious upgrades. Shifts are clearly felt but arent distracting.
Despite a relatively firm suspension, the ride is quiet and pleasant. When the pavement gets unduly harsh, so does the ride. Firm cushioning and moderately supportive seatbacks make the front seats satisfying, but the second-row seats are less spacious.