2005 Isuzu Ascender Road Test
We don't like to test large SUVs because of the safety issues and the environmental concerns. However, since they continue to sell well, we decided to test one of the lesser-known models to see how they match up to name brand competition and thus an Isuzu Ascender ended up in our garage. Two things became apparent immediately. First, this is essentially the same vehicle as the General Motors Envoy and Trail Blazer, but with a better warranty. Secondly, even with the six-cylinder engine we were hard pressed to get 12 mpg. That meant that with the huge 23-gallon tank we were barely able to go 250 miles before shelling out over $50 for unleaded fuel. Of course, this is typical of all large SUVs.