Curvaceous creation from a company known for straight-up sport-utilities sets a distinctive tone for the SUV market ... while on the road, the brand-new Axiom delivers on its promise
by James M. Flammang
NAPA, CALIFORNIA - Is it a sport-utility? Well yes, of course. But Isuzu's new Axiom abandons some of the sheer straight lines that characterize so many examples of the modern SUV, replacing them with pleasant curves. Clearly, Isuzu wanted to try something different for their newest model, and get away from the customary boxiness.
"We looked at today's urban driving experience," said Isuzu public-relations director Dick Gillmore, "and wondered what kind of car would put drivers out front." In addition to believing in overall growth of the SUV market, Isuzu foresaw demand for "crossover" models that blur the customary lines between vehicle types. Although the Axiom doesn't quite qualify as a "crossover" vehicle in the sense that word has been used lately, as a blend of sedan, wagon, SUV and minivan, it doesn't rank as the ordinary sport-utility, either.
Even the naming of the vehicle was different. No advertising agencies or focus groups were consulted. Instead, Isuzu announced a contest. A total of 17,000 "unique" entries were received (30,000 in all). The winner gets a brand-new 2002 Axiom of his own. The word "axiom" is defined as a self-evident or universally recognized truth.
Buyers are seeking five attributes, said Scott Hyde, executive manager of product planning:
+ Cargo capacity.
+ Roominess.
+ Visibility.
+ SUV security.
+ All-weather traction.
Isuzu designers also were "looking to obtain sedan-like qualities," such as nimble handling talents, appealing performance, easy-to-handle dimensions, and comfort. These qualities were sought "from the point of view of the SUV specialist," which is what Isuzu has been for many years now. In both luxury and on-/off-road capabilities, Isuzu positions the Axiom close to the Acura MDX and the Lexus RX 300, though the latter offers less off-road performance.
Design work actually began with the development of a series of concept vehicles in the 1990s, including the Zaccara, which led to the ZXS, described by Hyde as a "striking example of knife-edge design." That show vehicle "was constructed to be production-feasible." Not only does the Axiom's grille bear a strong resemblance to the one on the ZXS, but the two "share nearly identical sheetmetal."
Styling themes include an arcing roofline, sculpted wheel arches, and geometric-type 17-inch wheels. The interior also is said to be sculpted, "more like a European luxury sedan than an SUV."
Under the Axiom's hood, a 3.5-liter V-6 engine develops 230 horsepower and 230 pound-feet of torque, mated with a four-speed automatic transmission. Torque-on-Demand four-wheel drive incorporates a Low range, for true off-road running. Towing capacity is 4,500 pounds. A second-generation "intelligent" suspension adjusts shock-absorber damping in accordance with road conditions - independently, to 17 different settings.
Axiom uses body-on-frame construction rather than a unibody, with a reinforced crossmember and stiffened engine and transmission mounts. The center of gravity is lower than in the usual SUVs, such as Isuzu's own Trooper, which yields a car-like experience but retains a useful amount of ground clearance. The "hip-point" of the driver has been lowered, too, and the beltline raised, so window sills are higher than expected in traditional SUVs. Placing the front bumper at the same height as those on passenger cars reduces the risk of damage in minor collisions. Cargo space is greater than that of Isuzu's Rodeo.
Ample performance is a necessity in the mid-size sport-utility market, especially when a company is introducing a model with differences. Acceleration from a standstill is smooth and easy, and rather brisk to boot. Better yet, automatic-transmission reponse is top-notch, gliding pleasantly from one gear to the next, though each shift is clearly felt. Mountain upgrades induced quite a bit of downshifting, but the Axiom dealt with each gear change effectively.
Rough pavement can produce a fair amount of jolting - and even tossing around of occupants - due to the firm Axiom suspension. But on the whole, the ride is fine, hinting more at a sport sedan than the typical hard-riding SUV.
Interior space is less than abundant, especially in back, where a third person would feel quite cramped, if not crushed. Front seats are quite comfortable and moderately supportive, with firm cushioning. Excellent gauges are fully calibrated.
"Any way you try to classify the Axiom," said Gary Tucker, vice-president of marketing and product planning, "it breaks the mold." Axioms go on sale in April 2001, produced at a plant in Lafayette, Indiana. Isuzu expects to sell about 32,000 per year.
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