There are plenty of things to love about an Isuzu SUV. Most people may not first think of Isuzu as a brand they would look for, but the 2011 Isuzu Axiom has proven to be a solid SUV and has done well in the market. Although some may prefer a V8, the S 2WD V6, 3.5 Liter engine gets 18 city MPG, which is phenomenal for any SUV. The 250 horse power engine gets a respectable 23 MPG on the highway. The XS 4WD trim is equipped with the same engine, but gets 17 MPG city and 21 MPG highway. The standard transmission with both is four speed automatic. That may take it out of the running for some people, but for the average driver an automatic is typically preferable.

All available options avail a four door, five passenger capacity SUV. This 2011 Isuzu SUV is available with four wheel drive and rear wheel drive. The four wheel drive brakes are not typical drums, but discs instead. They come standard with 17 inch allow wheels and a longer wheelbase. ABS brakes are standard, of course. They come with Intelligent Suspension Control, which as implied varies the shock absorption depending on the need. It is SUV is low to the ground and styled after the look of a work truck. It has enormous tires that are very close to the extreme ends of the car, and a high central design. Both trims have a flat front and back design, no frills or curves.

Another solid Isuzu SUV is the 2011 Isuzu Ascender. Handling it is like cutting through butter, easy and smooth. The chassis is firm, with contruction of the full body on the frame and an optional rear-wheel drive that does not affect drive-ability on dry pavement. The engine offers a 4.2-liter, 24-valve, inline V6 with 275 hp, delivering a world of torque at 3,600 rpm. This is a REAL sport utility vehicle.

Anti-lock breaks are standard, but front side airbags are not. Curtain side airbags are not available at all and the key-less remote is optional with 2011 models, unlike previous years. This particular model is pretty new to the Isuzu brand, but is made to be much roomier than other similarly priced models. Highly modeled after the Chevy Trailblazer, the Ascender has top of the line luxury trims and options available. It can also torque a mighty 7,200 pounds of weight. That is certainly enough for the average boating or ATV enthusiast.

The Isuzu brand is putting out more viable SUV options on the market for serious buyers. Their models are well designed, practical and drive well. An Isuzu may not be the first thing you think of when you go SUV shopping, but that will change soon enough with the changes they are making to their vehicles. The Ascender is a great alternative to the Trailblazer, both strong and luxurious. The Axiom is practically no frills, but it does everything asked of it and more. They are roomy, dependable and a great addition to the SUV market.