Model Strengths:

Many cab and engine configuration options; affordably priced compact truck; available 4-wheel drive

Model Overview

The base-level Equator extended cab comes with a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine, rear-wheel drive, and a 5-speed manual transmission. Everything about those specs can be upgraded, depending on trim level: a 4.0L V6 is available, as is a 4-wheel drivetrain and a 5-speed automatic transmission with overdrive. The crew cab has only the V6 engine and the automatic transmission, though there is a choice between 2- and 4-wheel drive. Standard safety features are the same across the board, and include dual-stage front airbags, roof-mounted curtain and rollover airbags and front seat-mounted side-impact airbags. The safety features include anti-lock brakes, electronic brake force distribution and tire pressure monitoring. The Equator also comes standard with a 7-year, 100,000-mile powertrain warranty with roadside assistance and a courtesy vehicle program. Like a lot of full-sized pickup trucks, there are a multitude of possible configurations of the Equator, depending on which engine, bed, cab and drivetrain is desired. And along with those configurations comes a list of standard and optional equipment. Some things are common to all Equators, such as fabric seats, rear seats that flip up, a fold-flat passenger seat, two power outlets and storage under the rear seats. All but the most basic models come with air conditioning, an AM/FM/CD audio system, power windows and doors, remote keyless entry and cruise control. The crew cab models add a rear heater duct, tilt steering wheel and a 6-speaker audio system. The high-end RMZ crew cab model features upgraded, easy-clean fabric seat material and height adjustment for the driver's seat. They also include a 9-speaker stereo, Bluetooth connectivity and audio controls on the steering wheel. All crew cab models can add the optional navigation system.

Model Changes

The Equator sees few changes for 2012.

Model Value

The Suzuki Equator is a solid compact pickup that comes at an affordable price. The base-level extended cab model begins well under $18,000, while the top-of-the-line crew cab goes just less than $30,000. There's a lot of variation in between, with a configuration for almost every budget and need, including 4-wheel drive, two bed sizes and two engine choices-- an efficient 4-cylinder and a powerful V6.