American Isuzu Motors Inc. has announced dramatically lower manufacturer's suggested retail prices for its 2003 Axiom, Rodeo and Rodeo Sport models. In announcing the new pricing, J. T. Maloney, president of Isuzu Motors America, Inc., said, "This year, we will re-establish Isuzu as the best value for consumers looking to purchase a real SUV that fits their lifestyles and budgets. Axiom will serve as the style and performance value leader in its class. As our volume seller, Rodeo will lead the charge. And Rodeo Sport will prove that value and fun can go hand-in-hand."
Axiom for 2003 begins at $24,345 for the S 2WD model, a reduction of $2190 from its 2002 MSRP of $26,535. The entry-level Rodeo S 2WD with five-speed manual and 2.2-liter four-cylinder engine carries an MSRP of $15,999, while its 2002 counterpart carried a sticker of $18,380, $2381 higher.
The 2003 Rodeo Sport begins at an MSRP of $13,999 for the Soft Top 2WD model, $2376 less than its 2002 price of $16,375. Isuzu accomplished these reductions by eliminating infrequently used features and making some equipment optional, while retaining popular features and making improvements in several areas of every vehicle. The 2003 Axiom, Rodeo, and Rodeo Sport join the 2003 Isuzu Ascender, introduced in October at $28,649.
Isuzu's lower 2003 suggested retail prices also come with increased owner assurance. Roadside assistance coverage on all 2003 Isuzu SUVs has been increased to seven years or 75,000 miles, whichever comes first, up from five years or 60,000 miles in 2002. Isuzu Roadside Assistance provides lockout protection, flat tire repair, battery recharging, fuel delivery and towing (excluding accident-related incidents) at no charge to the customer. These coverages are in addition to Isuzu's three-year/50,000-mile basic and six-year/100,000-mile perforation from corrosion warranties.