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Acceleration
"Test regular-length 6-cyl Ascenders did 0-60 mph in 8.8 sec, is unstressed in
everyday driving. Seven-seat versions weigh about 350 lb more. In these, 6-cyl
is still adequate, but V8 adds useful muscle for hauling or towing heavy loads. "
Value
"Though Ascender matches most rivals for pace and space, Isuzu's longer warranty
doesn't fully compensate for a spotty dealer network. Additionally, Isuzu's financial
woes put the company's future in doubt. Shoppers considering Ascender would do
well to consider the similar GMC Envoy instead."
Ride
"Suspension absorbs bumps quite well for an SUV, extendeds better than regulars.
But without the air suspension available on GMC's Envoy, these Ascenders also
porpoise through dips and swells."
Economy
"Test regular-length Envoys and Ascenders averaged 12.1-17.4 mpg. Test extended-length
2WD 6-cyl Ascender averaged 12.1 mpg in all-city driving. Extended-use-test 4WD
6-cyl Envoy XL averaged 15.8 mpg over its 21,677-mi. test. GM claims Displacement
on Demand improves mpg by up to 8 percent in certain light-load driving conditions."
Noise
"Wind rush can be considerable at highway speeds; there's roar even around a
closed sunroof. The 6-cyl engine cruises quietly enough, but sounds gruff when
cold and a touch ragged at full throttle. The V8 is quieter overall."
Comfort - Front
"Good head and leg room, even for taller folks. Seats too soft for optimal support,
but not uncomfortable. Visibility restricted aft and over-the-shoulder by headrests
and thick roof pillars. Available power-adjustable pedals may be helpful, especially
to shorter drivers."
Comfort - Rear
"Six-footers have plenty of 2nd-row head room. Knee room adequate in regular-length
version, ample in extended, and both have adequate under-seat foot space despite
uneven floorboard. Split bench seat comfortable, fairly supportive, and wide
enough for three adults with a little squeezing. With 7-passenger seating, 2nd-row
seats slide forward and tilt up for accessing 3rd-row seat, which is roomy enough
for two adults and more comfortable than those in most midsize SUVs."
Controls
"Clear and handy. Switchgear works smoothly, but adjusting the low-mounted climate
controls forces a long look away from the road."
Cargo Room
"Generous in regular-length Ascenders, spacious in extendeds. The 60/40 split
seat folds easily, helped by automatic-folding headrests. However, instead of
a flat load floor with all seats folded, Ascender has a tiered floor that frustrates
easy loading and packing. Liftgate's separate opening glass is relatively high,
making it difficult to load some items. Cabins have a good array of pockets and
compartments for small items."
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