Emerging 2003 models are bringing optimism to the lagging car industry, still losing sales due to a sluggish economy. Isuzu has a fresh product that may inspire reluctant buyers to make final decisions on SUV purchases. The all-new Ascender is definitely worth its weight in gold, and will bite off a big chunk of the sports-utility market. The Ascender LS is an eye-catching and lavish addition to a market saturated with SUVs trying to capture attention. Auto manufacturers are always trying to beat the competition by building more advanced, more powerful and more attractive machines. Isuzu certainly will capture its share of the midsize market with this new offering, which is loaded with goodies and looks great.

The body style is contemporary, with immense interior space and a fresh look. Isuzu, better known for smaller products that meet the needs of entry-level buyers, has built something that will take on even Toyota's flagship products. The gallant-looking Ascender has curves and character all its own; it's not too similar to any other Isuzu product. The large body style is similar to the Toyota Sequoia, even a little bigger than the famous Ford Explorer. But the Ascender's looks are just part of its allure.

Brash body tones and formidable wheel flares enhance this SUV's stance, along with carved front and rear bumpers that complement the stylish looks. The onyx-black paint with two-tone lower pewter color accentuates the curves. Bold five-spoke alloy rims, with the Isuzu insignia carved into the center of the rim, plus a creatively designed roof rack and sunroof, are just a few features that lure lookers to the Ascender. The well-designed exterior, with quality looks from start to finish, helps the Ascender stand above its competition -- and with a more affordable price tag.

Built on a sturdy frame with an upgraded engine that's as self-assured as the exterior, the LS Ascender comes with an intense 4.2-liter, in-line 6-cylinder engine with more than 275 horsepower. The power, coupled with a four-speed automatic transmission with overdrive, was enough to satisfy my needs. The LS model I test-drove was two-wheel drive and had the giddy-up and go most drivers yearn for. The suspension, from front to rear, was soft and responsive. The Ascender also comes with a limited slip rear differential to help get out of rough terrain, plus traction control that makes for better handling in slippery and accident-prone situations. Fuel economy -- delivering only 15 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway -- could be a deal breaker if you're economy-minded. (But if you're shopping for an SUV, economy isn't at very top of your list anyway.)

The interior is roomy, elegant and loaded with the necessities for those with discriminating tastes. Power components are scattered throughout, with comfort features in all the right places. The LS model comes with upgraded cloth multicolored seating for seven, third-row seats that fold into a floor compartment, and front bucket-style seats with power controls. The second-row seating is comfortable, with plenty of leg and shoulder room. The easy-folding seats allow access to the rear seats and fold into the floor to add storage space.

The stereo and climate-control systems are effective, with easy-to-use remote controls located on the steering wheel, and main controls nestled into the center dash console area. The easy-to-mange CD/AM/FM stereo system and power components, including windows, door locks and mirrors, are convenient and efficient. One look at this stylish, roomy interior will make you think twice about an expensive Toyota purchase.

Why settle for a steep SUV price tag when the Isuzu Ascender LS will comfortably meet your needs for an affordable $33,000? This sports-utility vehicle is sure to shame its competition and bring buyers over to Isuzu.