2003 Isuzu Ascender

Isuzu replaces the aging Trooper for 2003 with a new flagship based on General Motors extended-length midsize SUVs. Except for some appearance trim, Ascender duplicates the Chevrolet TrailBlazer EXT and GMC Envoy XL, including their three-row, 7-passenger seating. It offers their 6-cyl or V8 power and 4-speed automatic transmission. Ascender is available with rear-wheel drive or GMs 4WD that can be left engaged on dry pavement and includes low-range gearing. Antilock 4-wheel disc brakes and front side airbags are standard; curtain side airbags are not offered. OnStar assistance is optional and traction control is available with 2WD. Ascender comes with Isuzus 3-year/50,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and 7-year/75,000-mile powertrain warranty vs. GMs 3-year/36,000-mile coverage. Maximum towing capacity is 7200 lb. A 5-seat, regular-length Ascender is due during the 2004 model year. Ascenders performance and accommodations mimic those of similarly equipped Envoys. Minimize