Most of the projects you see in OFF-ROAD are purpose built. Either aiming for a strong full-size tow vehicle, a high-speed prerunner, or maybe create a 4WD adventure seeking machine. Our latest project, an '09 Suzuki Equator is going to take on a few of those faces. The size and capabilities of the truck leads us on a journey to create an off road ride that is capable of tackling the rigors of long desert miles to crawling through mountainous forest trails. We want to be able to go anywhere, north or south of the border.
The new '09 Suzuki Equator is Suzuki's first midsize pickup on the market. It was developed in a joint effort with Nissan North America Inc. As you can see, the truck resembles many of the Nissan Frontier features. You can purchase the truck in both Extended Cab and Crew Cab configurations as well as rear-wheel-drive or four-wheel-drive options. Considering Suzuki's extensive lineup of ATVs and motorcycles, the truck is also available in short-bed or long-bed variants.
Under the hood you can choose from a standard 2.5L DOHC inline four-cylinder engine with 152 hp and 171 lb-ft of torque or an available 4.0L, V-6 DOHC engine producing 261 hp with 281 lb-ft of torque. The V-6 engine features an aluminum block, cast iron cylinders, Teflon coated pistons, micro-finished camshafts and variable valve timing.
The optional RMZ-4 off-road package includes a strong Dana 44 rear axle, Bilstein front and rear shocks, skid plates covering the oil pan, transfer case and fuel tank, 16-inch alloy wheels wrapped in BFG Rugged Trail P265/75 tires, front fog lamps, and more. The Equator offers a shift-on-the-fly 4WD system that features an electronically controlled part-time two-speed transfer case. For even more off-road control the truck includes a four-wheel, active limited-slip traction control, electronic locking rear differential, Vehicle Dynamic Control, Hill Descent Control and Hill Hold Control.
If you are looking to tow, the Equator can haul up to 6,300 pounds of your favorite off-road toys. Something else you get with Suzuki is a class-leading 7-year, 100,000-mile warranty, which sets it apart from much of its competition.
We look forward to showcasing the latest and greatest aftermarket goods and pushing the limits of our new project truck. Stay tuned for plenty of wrench-turning tech, new product reviews and driving impressions in the dirt. For more information on the Equator, visit www.suzuki.com.