The Ascender looks more like the Envoy than any of its other GM siblings. Its fenders incorporate near identical swells but Isuzu adds a thin strip of body cladding around the outer edges to distinguish between the two. Its grille and surrounding front fascia is all Isuzu, including the traditional large headlights.
If you've ever been inside an Envoy you won't feel out of place in the Ascender. Except for the lack of a few metallic accents around the circular vents its dash and console is virtually identical. Fortunately it's an extremely attractive design. The central stack includes an AM/FM/CD audio system at top, a user-friendly dual-zone automatic climate control system below that, plus a lower panel with a 4WD high/low toggle, rear wiper-washer switch and power adaptor/cigarette lighter, depending on your preference. The 4-prong steering wheel comes directly out of the GM parts bin, replete with controls for fan speed and temperature adjustment, audio band, station and volume, trip computer access and more.
All Ascenders will include standard RWD with 4WD optional, while a 17-inch tire and wheel package will be fitted to each model. The standard equipment list will also include fog lamps and a roof rack. Three levels of trim will be offered, starting with the base S and followed by the LS and Limited. The S receives an AM/FM/CD audio system, Homelink, cruise control, power heated exterior mirrors, power windows and locks and dual-zone air conditioning with separate rear controls. The LS adds a power glass sunroof, trip computer, a Travelnote voice recorder and digital compass equipped auto-dimming rearview mirror. Move up to the Limited and add leather, a Bose audio system with 6-disc dash-mounted CD player, power adjustable heated front seats with driver's side memory that also adjust the mirrors and a monotone exterior paint scheme.