2012 Suzuki Equator

The 2012 Suzuki Equator is a compact pickup truck that is based on the Nissan Frontier. Although this is not a luxury model, it has an RMZ-4 off-road package for better performance in all weather conditions.

This truck is fitted with several high-tech features such as electronic rear-locking differential, moon-roof, and skid plates among others. It will compete against rivals with enough to spare.

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Equator RWD Base Price: $22,949.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 21.1 gallons (80l) MPG: 17 city / 22 hwy
Dimensions
Length: 206.6 in. (524.7 cm) Wheel Base: 125.9 in. (319.7 cm)
Height: 68.7 in. (174.5 cm) Width: 72.8 in. (184.9 cm)
Curb Weight: 3686 lbs (1672 kg) Ground Clearance: 7.6 in. (19.3 cm)
Cargo Bed Capacity: 33.5 cu ft Maximum Seating: 3 people
Performance
Engine: 2.5L Inline-4 DOHC Compression Ratio: 9.5: 1
Horsepower: 152 HP Max RPM: 5200 RPM
Torque: 171 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm Transmission: 5-Speed AT
Max Towing Capacity: 3500 lbs (1588 kgs) Maximum Speed: NA
Available Trims & Engine
Option:Comfort Package MSRP: $24,049; MPG: 19 city / 23 hwy
Option:Sport 4.0L V6 4WD MSRP: $26,449; MPG: 15 city / 20 hwy

Engine & Performance

The 2012 Equator uses a 2.5L inline 4 engine that generates 152 hp and 171 lbs-ft of torque. Customers can also opt for the 4.0L V6 powertrain that produces 261 hp and 281 lbs-ft of torque. The 4-cylinder is only available in the lower trim extended-cab models, while the V6 is only offered in the crew cabs and 4WD models.

The V6 comes with standard 5-speed automatic transmission, while 4-cylinder engines come connected to a 5-speed manual gearbox. Rear-drive extended cabs with the 4-cylinder engine nets a fuel economy estimate of 17/22 mpg city/highway. On the other hand, a 4WD equipped with the V6 gets a fuel economy of 15/19 mpg city/highway. The 2012 Equator also gets kudos for its towing capabilities. A 2-wheel drive equator can tow up to 3,500 pounds, while a 4WD can haul up to 6,300 lbs. A V6-equipped Sport model can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 8.0 seconds.

Exterior

This pickup truck is offered in crew cab and extended body styles. The extended cabs are available in 4 trim levels: base, Comfort package, premium and the Sport. Crew cabs are offered in Sport and RMZ-4 trims. The Equator can be distinguished through the Suzuki badge mounted on the honeycomb 3-bar grille. The tailgate, bumpers, hood, front fenders and the grille are exclusive to Suzuki.

The base and Comfort package trims are fitted with 15-inch steel wheels, the premium is fitted with 16-inch alloy wheels, while the Sport is equipped with 17-inch alloy wheels. Depending on the body style and the trim you choose, you can get a 5 or 6-foot bed.

Interior

This pickup truck comes with an interior that is more practical and comfortable. The crew cab models can accommodate 5 passengers, while the extended cab models can fit up to 4 people. Just like in any other compact pickup truck, you won’t find many standard interior features in the Equator.

However, all trims come with a center console and bucket seats. Optional features include: air conditioning, Rockford Fosgate 6-CD stereo, sub-woofer, Bluetooth, and MP3 jack connectivity.

Safety & Reliability

The Suzuki Equator receives a lot of praise for its safety features. They include: active limited-slip traction control, hill descent control, anti-lock brakes, side-impact airbags for the front-seats, side curtain airbags, active head restraints, electronic stability and traction control, brake assist and 4-wheel ABS. Customers will also be pleased by the long warranty backing this pickup truck.

The Equator is backed with a 3-year or 36,000 miles limited warranty as well as the respectable 7-year or 100,000 miles engine warranty.

Pros

  • Long warranty
  • Practical, durable interior
  • Competitive towing capacity
  • Capable V6 performance

Cons

  • Cramped rear seats.
  • Regular-cab body style not available
  • Few standard features

The 2012 Suzuki Equator is great for a compact pickup truck that comes with options that are appealing to off-road enthusiasts. With the V6 engine to go with a generous list of safety features and warranty, the Equator is one step ahead of its rivals.

Competition

Other pick up trucks such as the Chevrolet Colorado (MSRP $24,285; 18 city / 25 hwy) and Toyota Tacoma (MSRP $22,425; 19 city / 24 hwy) can be compared to the features the Equator offers, depending on your needs.

Overall Rating
62 out of 100

What others say:

“Handling is nicely balanced for a pickup truck. The steering feels weighty and direct, but is slow to react in tight turns and parking spots. Body lean is evident in corners. RMZ-4’s tall build makes it feel a bit more tippy, though it never feels uncontrolled. The RMZ-4 also suffers from a very large turning radius, which is problematic in close-quarters maneuvering.”Consumer Guide

“The Suzuki Equator is a rebadged Nissan Frontier that shares a platform with the Pathfinder and Xterra. We found the Frontier quick and nimble, with a stiff, though tolerable ride.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“The 2012 Suzuki Equator is one of the more capable midsize pickups on the market, but Suzuki’s limited dealer network should be considered before you commit to a purchase.”Edmunds

“The 2012 Suzuki Equator is a truck pretty much like any other in its class.”KBB

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