What’s New?
Isuzu’s sport utility vehicle (SUV), the Ascender, gets standard tire-pressure-monitoring technology for the 2007 model. It also comes in two new colors—Bering Blue Metallic and Storm Gray Metallic. Also, the Isuzu SUV features 6-spoke machined-finish alloy wheels instead of painted wheels. Additionally, the 7-seat model has been discontinued, as has OnStar communications service.

Overview
The Ascender is Isuzu’s SUV and is based on the same underpinnings as the Chevrolet Trailblazer and GMC Envoy. It launched as a 2004 model. The Ascender is powered by a 4.2-liter inline 6-cylinder engine that pumps out 291 hp. With a 4-speed automatic transmission, the powertrain provides 16 mpg in city driving and better than 20 mpg on the highway. The vehicle can tow as much as 5,800 pounds. The Ascender is available in either rear- or 4-wheel drive(4WD).

The basic S model includes fog lamps, front- and rear-seat climate controls, and a CD player in rear-wheel-drive models, with the 4WD version adding a power driver’s seat, remote keyless entry, and cruise control. An up-level LS package adds a sunroof, exterior mirror defrosters, audio controls on the steering wheel, a moonroof, and a limited-slip differential. A Luxury Package is also available and includes leather seats with memory (the seats are heated for the driver and front-seat passenger) and a 6-speaker Bose audio system. Satellite radio also is available. Anti-lock brakes and side curtain air bags are available on the Ascender, however, OnStar is no longer available.

All 2007 Ascender owners benefit from Isuzu’s 7-year/75,000-mile powertrain limited warranty and matching 24-hour roadside assistance coverage. Isuzu Roadside Assistance provides lockout protection, flat-tire repair, battery recharging, fuel delivery, and towing (excluding accident-related incidents) at no charge to the customer. These coverages are in addition to Isuzu’s 3-year/50,000-mile basic and 6-year/100,000-mile perforation from corrosion warranties.

The Competition
The Isuzu Ascender competes in the Midsize Utility segment, which consists of 16 models. Buyers in this segment look for performance, reliability, and comfort, according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2006 Avoider Study^SM and the Escaped Shopper Study.^SM

The top sellers in the segment during calendar year 2006, according to the J.D. Power and Associates Sales Report,^SM were the Honda Pilot (152,154 units sold), Jeep Grand Cherokee (139,148), and Ford Explorer (131,759). The Isuzu Ascender sold 4,857 units in 2006, a decrease of 36 percent compared to the previous year. Other models offered in the Midsize Utility segment include the Chevrolet TrailBlazer, Toyota 4Runner, Jeep Commander, Nissan Pathfinder, and Dodge Durango. Joining the segment in 2007 is the Chrysler Aspen.