Isuzu Announces New Flagship SUV; Powerful, Luxurious Ascender Will Debut in 2002 as 2003 Model

CERRITOS, Calif., Nov. 2 -- American Isuzu Motors Inc. today announced the next in its groundbreaking line of sport utility vehicles.

The 2003 Isuzu Ascender will begin production in North America in September 2002 and will make its debut in dealer showrooms shortly thereafter. This powerful, rugged yet civilized and luxurious vehicle will assume its place at the top of the Isuzu line, following in the tradition of the mighty Trooper, which Ascender will supplant as Isuzu's flagship.

In a statement to Isuzu dealers and employees, Duke T. Hale, Senior Vice President and COO - Sport Utility Vehicle, said, ``Isuzu's presence in the U.S. sport utility market will be strengthened by this bold new vehicle.''

A 4.2-liter inline six-cylinder engine generating 270 horsepower and 275 foot-pounds of torque at 3,600 rpm will move Ascender. This engine, in other applications, has already received rave reviews from the press and the public for its power and smoothness. Both two- and four-wheel drive models will be offered. Four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock braking system will be standard on all models, along with a towing capacity of 6,500 pounds.

The roomy Ascender will ride on a 128.9-inch wheelbase -- long enough for a standard third row of seats, allowing the vehicle to accommodate seven passengers comfortably. Other comfort, convenience and safety features will include heated mirrors; roof rack; running boards; daytime running lamps; moisture-sensitive windshield wipers; dual-zone climate controls; overhead console; leather seating surfaces (with heated front seats and driver's seat memory); front and rear side airbags; cruise control; on-board computer; Bose sound system; and OnStar telematics system.

Like all Isuzu sport utility vehicles, Ascender will be backed by America's longest warranty, Isuzu's exclusive 10-year/120,000-mile powertrain limited warranty.

The Isuzu Ascender will be based on a General Motors platform, which it will share with the long-wheelbase Chevrolet TrailBlazer EXT and GMC Envoy XL also scheduled to be introduced during 2002.

More details about Ascender will be announced as its launch date draws nearer.

American Isuzu Motors Inc. is the U.S. distributor of Isuzu sport utility vehicles and diesel engines.