Want a New Suzuki Samurai? Go to India or New Zealand

The Suzuki Samurai was introduced to North America in 1985 as a MY1986 vehicle and was on sale for 10 model years. Despite the whole Consumer Reports roll-over conundrum in the 1980s, it remains one of the most loved, coveted, and in-demand 4x4s out there. Don't believe me? Look at how much they go for on craigslist. Its off-road ability and subcompact size make it great for tackling all sorts of terrain; its reputation for durability and off-road capability is legendary. In fact, it's still one of the more popular platforms around the world for those looking to venture off the pavement. And although the Samurai eventually evolved as the Jimny in many markets, there are still a couple places you can buy a brand-new version: India and New Zealand.

Review: 2015 Chevrolet Trax LTZ FWD

By Andy Lilienthal

The subcompact crossover segment is simply exploding with new entries, and one of the latest is Chevrolet’s new Trax. Based on the Chevrolet Sonic chassis, the Trax is a mechanical twin to the more upscale Buick Encore which has been selling like super-practical little hotcakes. The Trax isn’t quite as lux-oriented as its Buick cousin (it’s also not available in beige with faux hood vents), but is actually a remarkably neat little vehicle. Admittedly, after speaking to some of my fellow automotive writing cohorts, I thought the vehicle was going to be a disappointment. But it was pretty much the exact opposite.

Fiat 500X SUV Leaked

Fiat's next model, the 500X, has been leaked. The SUV will ride on the same chassis as the upcoming Jeep Renegade. You can see a distinctive Fiat front fascia and a more rounded appearance vs. the ungainly 500L.

We don't know a whole heck of a lot about the 500X, but assume it'll be powered by the 1.4-liter MultiAir turbo engine found in the 500L and Jeep Renegade. The car is set for an October 2 debut at the Paris Motor Show.

While we haven't seen any other "real" photos than this, I'd say that if the Fiat 500L is controversially styled, the 500X is not. It's much more mainstream looking and should have mass appeal in crossover-crazy America.

Review: 2013 Acura RDX AWD Tech

There’s nothing wrong with vanilla. It’s a sweet, simple flavor that can be rather good. I mean, when was the last time you heard anyone complain about vanilla ice cream? Granted, some vanilla is better than others.

When “vanilla” is used to describe a car, it usually means boring and bland. But again, vanilla can be silky; it can be refined; it can be classy. This is how I’d classify the 2013 Acura RDX. It isn’t sexy, but it’s smooth and sophisticated. It’s luxurious, but isn’t going to quicken your pulse. It’s basically vanilla.

Is this the next Suzuki Jimny?

Is this orange illustration a hint at what the next-generation Suzuki Jimny will look like? The blue print at the bottom this cover of Japan's Mag-X does indeed say "Jimny." (ジムニー)—you can use Google Translate and figure that out. So what are the details? How official is this

According to website SuzukiFan.com, the vehicle will share the Swift platform, which means it'll do away with the body-on-frame construction and will be a crossover. If that's the case, it's fair to ascertain that it will also likely lose its solid front and rear axles and most of its legendary off-road capability. It may gain better on-road handling and an improved ride.

SuzukiFan is also saying there will be two variants: A small Kei version for the Japanese domestic market, and a larger model for outside markets. It is also saying there may be a soft top configuration. The site speculates gasoline-powered engines will range between 1.2 and 1.4 liters in size.

While I don't expect this model, which is allegedly bowing as a 2014, to come to North America, it will likely be sold in a host of other markets across the globe.

I don't like the idea of the Jimny turning into a "soft roader." This is a vehicle that's been known globally as an affordable 4x4 that can go anywhere and is highly modifiable. There are plenty of AWD car-based vehicles out there, and it'd be sad to know that yet another off-road-capable vehicle has been given the crossover treatment. We'll have to wait and see.

2012 Suzuki Grand Vitara Ultimate Adventure: Despite the name, not the most exciting journey

The term “SUV” used to refer to truck-based 4x4s with low-range four-wheel-drive systems, generally dismal fuel economy, not-so-great on-road handling, and body-on-frame construction. Within the last several years, most traditional SUVs as described above have all but vanished, especially off-road-capable compact SUVs. They’ve been replaced with generally more practical car-based unibody-constructed vehicles. But, let’s face it: The vast majority of the buying public doesn’t need a low-range gear set, body-on-frame construction, and would rather have the instant all-wheel-drive versus the need to manually change into 4WD. There are capable "traditional" SUVs left on the market, such as the Jeep Wrangler, Nissan Xterra, and Toyota FJ Cruiser or 4Runner.

Review: 2012 Honda CR-V EX AWD: Practicality, refinement, and understatement

The Honda CR-V is one of the original cute utes—a small SUV that isn’t intended for hardcore off-road use. Instead, the car-based CR-V is best described as a people and cargo carrier. When equipped with AWD, it’s wonderful for foul weather commutes, trips to the ski hill, or dirt road adventures. It’s always been good—I got my mom to buy one in 2007—and I always had a thing for the first generation models, which debuted in 1997. For 2012, the venerable CR-V has been completely redesigned. And while I wouldn’t call the CR-V “cute,” I do find it handsome, if not a bit conservative, and super practical.

In the driveway: 2012 Honda CR-V EX

In the driveway this week is the 2012 Honda CR-V EX. This AWD compact crossover represents the first new newly designed CR-V since 2007. I've always been a fan of Honda's cute ute, and this one will likely keep me a fan. Unlike some of the other Hondas in the lineup, such as the Civic and Accord, the CR-V seems to have stuck with what has always worked for Honda. Things such as simple, effective, clean designs in both the interior and exterior, for example. Nothing too crazy or over-the-top, this crossover is what I liked about Honda in the 1980s and 1990s; it's a minimalist, functionalist, modern design that works. Some may call it bland, but it's very effective.

Since I'm not much of a fan of Honda styling and interiors as of late (sans the Fit), I was delightfully surprised by the '12 CR-V. In addition, the ride is smooth and comfortable; acceleration is surprisingly good; interior space is voluminous with lots of cubby holes for stuff. So far, there haven't been any confusing dash bits, awkward interfaces, or major negatives. We'll see if that trend continues as we put some more miles on the vehicle. Stay tuned.

The Teal Terror gets a WARN winch

Finally got around to installing a WARN VR8000-s winch on The Teal Terror. A winch is a great addition to any off-road vehicle simply because if you get stuck, you can pull yourself out. And if your buddy gets stuck, you can pull him/her out, too.

This winch has an 8,000 lb. capacity—more than enough for such a small rig, but allows you to pull heavier vehicles, too—and features the company's new Spydura synthetic rope (hence the "-s" in the name). Since synthetic rope is lighter weight than traditional metal cable,  the winch's overall weight is 62 lbs. compared to 80 lbs. with wire rope. This is a nice factor on a small, lightweight vehicle, such as the Sidekick. Plus, synthetic rope is also easy to handle. Like all winch rope, this needs to be stretched before actually using it to pull, so that's in the works for this afternoon, as tomorrow I'm going wheeling with some co-workers in the snow. Pics to follow.

Biology of the Toyota FJ Cruiser

Why an FJ Cruiser video on Subcompact Culture? Because it's too good not to share. This video shows the "biology" of the miniature FJ Cruiser including things such as "defense and offense, "reproductive activities," which does include mating (possibly the funniest part at 2:05), and even "birth."

The credits say the video was produced by Toyota Marketing Japan Corporation. What can I say, except ... awesome.

LINK
Biology of FJ (English Ver.)

Project "Teal-Tastic": 1995 Suzuki Sidekick 4x4

I picked up a project vehicle: A 1995 Suzuki Sidekick JX 4x4. I've wanted a small off-road vehicle for a long time, and the time—and vehicle—was right. The color, however, well, that can always be changed.

It's a '95, so it has the 16-valve 1.6-liter engine (pre-'95 models had an 8 valve engine). It's, of course, a five-speed manual, and has a true 4WD system with a low and high range. This one has about 139,000 miles, and the "bones" (e.g. the engine/trans) are in good working order. For $1,800 I didn't expect perfection, and the vehicle does need some work. Although my dad and I greatly cleaned the interior up, it needs new window crank mechanisms, a new center dash surround, a radio, and a top. on the inside.

The "teal-tastic" exterior is OK, although there are a few things that need some work. Nothing really major, but some paint here, some trim pieces there, etc.

I already added a new battery and some new windshield washer line.

So what would I like to do with this vehicle? My day job is in the off-road industry (I work for Warn Industries), so this will make a great little trail vehicle—yes, it will go off road. A mild lift, some bigger/more aggressive tires, a winch/winch bumper, lights, are in queue (eventually). Of course, for off will be things like fluid changes, timing belt, cap/rotor, etc.

Hopefully it'll be on the trails soon. Looking forward to some "wheeling" in the near future.

Review: 2010 Mitsubishi Outlander GT S-AWD—An often overlooked CUV is quite good

Nope, it's not a subcompact, but I did get a chance to review it. Mitsubishi’s Outlander is now in its second generation. It’s bigger, more powerful, and more substantial than the previous model. It is a seven-passenger crossover SUV with all-wheel drive, a V-6, and plenty of accouterments in GT trim. In fact, it’s pretty sporty for a crossover, and its Rockford Fosgate sound system is probably the loudest on the block.

EXTERIOR: Clean and sporting

The Outlander GT has modern, clean lines. Its corporate Mitsubishi Lancer EVO-inspired front end has a sporting look, albeit, a bit odd at first on the front of a CUV. Although not drop-dead gorgeous, but it isn’t cookie-cutter, either. To me, it’s one of the more attractive CUVs. The 18” wheels and tires help give the exterior a bit of sport, as does that shark-like front end.

INTERIOR: Comfortable (minus the third row), pleasant (minus the third row)

In GT trim, the Outlander does a lot to make its interior a good place to spend time. Comfy, heated power leather seats, leather-trimmed dash, plenty of room, and just the right amount of gadgetry are all nice touches. It loses points for somewhat cheap feeling climate control knobs, but other than that, it’s quite nice. All the controls are easy to use, the gauges are spot on, and it all just seems to fit. Build quality feels good, too.

In the second row, seating is comfortable and roomy. My friend’s 6’3” brother (and he’s a big guy, too) fit without complaint in the back seat. However, the third row, on the other hand, is really only good in a pinch. It comes out of the rear cargo area and can be tricky to setup at first. And once out of the floor, it’s not anywhere near comfortable. It feels like a metal chair frame covered with some fabric, sans padding. But, in a pinch, it can be good to have. With that being said, even kids probably wouldn’t be comfortable back there for any period of time.

Speaking of cargo, with the seat folded into the floor, there is plenty of room for hauling stuff. It easily gulped my purchase of four winter tires, and had plenty of room for groceries. It also has a cool clamshell-style tailgate, too.

DRIVETRAIN: 3 liters, 6 speeds, all wheel drive

With 230 horsepower on tap from its 3.0-liter V-6, the Outlander has ample power, but it’s not overly gutsy. The all-wheel-drive system has settings for tarmac, snow, and “lock,” which presumably locks the center differential for deep snow, sand or mud. Power is delivered to all four wheels via a smooth-shifting six-speed automatic with manual shifting capability using either the shifter lever or paddles mounted on the steering column. The engine/transmission is complaint-free.

DRIVING: A of bit sport, a bit of comfort, needs a bit more power

The Outlander is actually rather sporty for a “sport” utility vehicle (or CUV, whatever they call them these days). Although the vehicle isn’t super gusty, it has no lack of power. But, a little more grunt, being a GT version and all, would be nice. Grip from its 18” wheels/tires is good, and body roll isn’t bad for a CUV. In fact, it’s actually quite fun in the corners. The vehicle always feels sure-footed and stable. Although certainly more sporting than its four-cylinder base model, at more than 3,700 lbs. and making 230 hp, the Outlander doesn’t quite live up to its GT badge.

I found the Outlander GT to ride quite well on all surfaces. I don’t recall ever thinking the car had any issues in this department. Even on some of the rougher roads around Portland, the vehicle was pleasant to ride in. Plus, it’s a good combination of handling and comfort.

TECHNOLOGY: Outstanding audio; easy-to-use tech (yay!)

It’s refreshing to be in a vehicle that makes its technology easy to use! The outstanding (and incredibly loud) 710 watt Rockford Fosgate stereo (with 10” subwoofer) is controlled through a touch-screen monitor that also displays the vehicle’s navigation and back-up camera. And yes, it’s all quite easy to use and intuitive. Add to this Bluetooth (with streaming Bluetooth audio), AV hookups, a DVD player in the dash (I assume it plays on the screen; I didn’t try it), and satellite radio and you’ve got a lot of customizable in-car entertainment. Plus, the trip computer displays a host if information including temperature, traction info, fuel economy, and more.

On the mechanical side, the Outlander GT with Super All Wheel Control (S-AWC) has the aforementioned adjustable all-wheel-drive. It also has a hill-holding feature that automatically keeps you planted on an incline—a nice feature, especially in hilly areas.


OVERALL: One of the most underrated cars; worth a look

I’d say the Outlander GT is a fair deal. It’s not overly high on the bang-for-the-buck scale, but it’s definitely in the ballpark for this segment. Mitsubishi isn’t known for its high resale value, however, and dealerships can be few and far between. However, most major metropolitan areas have at least one or two dealers. It does have a 10 year, 100,000 powertrain warranty, though. Regardless, you can shave off $3,000 by not getting the Premium Navi and Leather Package, if that’s not important to you.

This may be one of the most overlooked and underrated vehicles on the market. I think it deserves a look if you’re shopping for a CUV. With plenty of room, ample power, notable driving dynamics, a comfortable interior, and good cargo-carrying ability, this is one of the better cars Mitsubishi has sold in the U.S. in a while. It feels solid and well built, plus it can carry seven people in a pinch. It could use a bit more get-up-and-go, but it’d likely be fine for 99% of the driving population. This is one of those vehicles that is quite good, and deserves more attention.

In the driveway: 2010 Mitsubishi Outlander GT

Now in the driveway is the 2010 Mitsubishi Outlander GT. It's AWD, got a V6, and is pretty sporty for a crossover. The interior is surprisingly nice, and it has the awesomely powerful Rockford Fosgate 710 watt stereo.

So far, I like it a lot more than I thought I would. It's very comfortable, sportier than I thought it would be, and has very good cargo carrying ability. It's a seven passenger, but the pop-up jump seat in the rear is very tiny and is like a metal frame covered by fabric—super basic. But it'd work in a pinch. More later!

VIDEO: Another reason why I wish American Suzuki sold the Jimny

We don't get the Suzuki Jimny in the U.S., but I wish we did! I'd be all over one of these tiny titans. Great off-road capability, a great aftermarket, and a proven platform make the Jimny one cool off roader.

This video is by 4x4 MAGAZINE, which is a gorgeous publication out of Japan that comes into my work. Yes, it's in Japanese, and no I can't read it. But the pics sure are great. Anyway, perhaps someday we'll get the Jimny in the U.S. I'm not holding my breath, but it'd be nice to have the option of an affordable, small 4x4 again. Might be a cool niche vehicle, too.

LINKS
4x4 MAGAZINE
4x4 MAGAZINE YouTube channel

What's the small vehicle market lacking?

Oh what a few years has made. We've got more small vehicle options now than we have since the 1980s. And, undoubtedly, they're the best small vehicles, too. We've got three-door hatchbacks, four-door sedans, and five-door hatches. We've got front drivers (from the majority of manufacturers), all-wheel drives (Suzuki SX4, Nissan Juke, MINI Countryman), and if you count the Mazda Miata, rear drivers, too. But is there something lacking in the small market? Something that perhaps should be there but isn't (or isn't yet)?

If I had to say there was a missing link, it'd be the small SUV. I'm not talking about a RAV4, CR-V, Escape, or Grand Vitara—none of those are that small anymore. I'm talking small like an old-school Suzuki Samurai or perhaps a Daihatsu Rocky, Geo Tracker, etc. Something bigger than a kei car, but smaller than the aforementioned currently available vehicles.

I know there's a bunch of folks who'd love to see Suzuki import its Jimny. (Whether it could meet federal crash standards, I don't know). Maybe there's a niche to be filled here?

So what small vehicles do you think the market is lacking? What voids would you like to see filled in subcompact landscape?

A bit bigger: 2010 Suzuki Grand Vitara V6 4WD—A good value with a mixed bag of on- and off-road performance

Suzuki started its auto business in the U.S. by selling small, affordable SUVs, namely the Samurai. The Spartan Samurai was very capable off road and quite affordable. Since then, Suzuki has offered SUVs including the ubiquitous Sidekick, the large XL7, the quirky X-90, the four-cylinder Vitara, and V-6-powered Grand Vitara. The only remaining SUV in the lineup is the Grand Vitara, which was restyled in 2007, and received a 230 hp 3.2-liter V-6 in 2009. New for 2010 is the standard Garmin navigation.

THE SHORT STORY

Pros: Handsome, upscale looks; comfortable cabin; off-road capable 4wD system; lots of bang-for-the buck; 7/100,000 powertrain warranty

Cons: Somewhat jittery ride; low ground clearance/fully independent suspension doesn't match the rugged 4WD system; fussy cupholders

Overall: Another bargain from Suzuki. However, it provides a mixed bag of performance both on and off the asphalt. Still worth a look on value alone.

EXTERIOR STYLING: Classy and sophisticated
I really like the Grand Vitara's styling, especially in black. From certain angles it looks like a smaller Land Rover; its attractive 18” wheels and tires give it an upscale look. The SUV has minimal front and rear overhangs which not only make the vehicle look sportier, but also help with approach and departure angles if the vehicle ever sees any off-road action.

Unlike most SUVs (sans the Toyota RAV4), the GV has a sideways-opening rear door instead of a hatchback. A love-it-or-hate-it feature, it does swing open wide, but also takes a lot of room to open—something to be careful of when parallel parked. The door also wears a hard-covered spare tire. Which, thankfully, does not obstruct outward vision.

INTERIOR: Comfortable and simple with few gripes
My test vehicle was a Grand Vitara V6 Limited, which included leather upholstery, a large power moonroof, automatic climate control, and wood trim applique. The overall look is good and it feels well made. A few things here and there feel a bit flimsy, but overall it's good. The dashboard is easy to read and bright. There is a multi-function computer that displays a variety of info, and also provides information with regards to engaging/disengaging the 4WD system.

I put a decent amount of miles on the SUV while I had it, and the heated driver's/passenger's seats were always comfortable, especially on long trips. Ergonomics were good, and everything, including the automatic climate control, was intuitive to operate. The GV had Suzuki's pop-up Garmin navigation unit, which also doubles as the truck's Bluetooth system.

My mom was in down during the week I had the GV, and she spent a decent amount of time in the backseat (love ya, mom!), as did my wife. Both of them said the back seat was comfortable and roomy. However, both complained that exiting was a bit challenging due to the doors not opening up terribly far.

Suzuki seems to have a problem making cupholders that do a good job holding cups (my Suzuki SX4, is an offender, too), and this goes for the Grand Vitara, also. Both the front and rear cupholders were sub par. Minor detail, but worth mentioning.

The rear cargo area is deep and spacious for a smaller SUV, yielding good carrying ability. It also included a handy multi-section tonneau cover. For those looking for more space, the rear seats fold down and tumble forward for more space.

TECHNOLOGY: Functional and easy to use
As mentioned, this SUV included a Garmin GPS, automatic climate control, heated seats, a seven-speaker stereo with subwoofer and aux jack, power moonroof, and automatic headlights. Also included is Suzuki's HomeLink system as well as a keyless entry and start system called SmartPass. The technology is easy to use and straight forward. The stereo wasn't the best on the market, but was adequate. I am, however, a big fan of the Garmin GPS. It's compact, removable, and can be updated via your computer. The steering wheel has cruise control and audio controls, as well.

The GV has all of the safety tech you'd expect including four-wheel disc brakes with ABS, skid control, traction control, and front/side air bags. It also has a push-button hill hold control (HHC) which will hold the vehicle on inclines for a couple of seconds as you go from brake to accelerator.

ENGINE/DRIVETRAIN: An interesting combination (and contradiction) of features
The 230 horsepower 3.2-liter V-6 mated to a five-speed automatic transmission. Shifts are very smooth, although the engine does tend to get a bit thrashy in the upper ends of the revs.

One of the Grand Vitara's most noteworthy aspects, however, its its true 4WD system with a two-speed transfer case. Operated using a simple dial on the dashboard (at left: the dial at the lower left), the system is usually in automatic 4WD High. However, it can be shifted to 4WD Lock mode on the fly, which splits the power 50/50 to the front and rear wheels in foul driving conditions. If things get really bad, or you're doing some off-road driving, you can stop, put the transmission in neutral, and switch to 4WD Low. This lower gear ratio allows maximum torque and power to the wheels, and reduces the vehicle's speed limits—something off-road enthusiasts want. The GV also has a unibody chassis with a built-in ladder frame for rigidity and durability.

There is some contradiction, though. Although Suzuki equips the GV with an off-road-capable 4WD system and built-in ladder frame, it rides on a fully independent suspension system—not the choice of most who venture off the pavement, although it provides improved ride quality versus a solid axle. Also, the GV has only 7.9 inches of ground clearance, and it's approach/ breakover/departure angles are somewhat lower than its "soft-roader" competition. For comparison's sake:

SUV	Ground Clearance	Approach Angle	Breakover Angle	Departure Angle
Nissan Xterra	9.5"	33.2°	24.6°	29.4°
Subaru Forester	8.9"	25°	21°	25°
Suzuki Grand Vitara V6	7.9"	29°	19°	27°
Toyota RAV4	7.4"	29°	N/A	25°

Other than the Grand Vitara, the Xterra is the only SUV above that has a two-speed transfer case. However, it also offers the preferred solid rear axle, and better off-road specs.

One thing that should be noted is the Grand Vitara's towing capacity: 3,000 lbs. Of the above-mentioned SUVs, only the Xterra can pull more (5,000 lbs.).

DRIVING: A mixed bag of dynamics
Although the Grand Vitara's all-aluminum 3.2-liter V-6 has 230 horsepower, it doesn't feel terribly powerful. Don't get me wrong: The SUV has plenty of passing power and accelerates fine. But when compared to the Toyota RAV4's 269 hp. 3.5 liter V-6 or Subaru's 224 hp 2.5-turbo four cylinder, it feels heavy and somewhat lumbering.

The suspension is firm and bumps can yield rubbery kickback on broken pavement. On the highway things mellow a bit, but the ride is noticeably stiff. Handling feels confident, albeit the steering is slow.

I didn't have a chance to do any hard-core off-roading with the GV, but I did take it on a mild trail outside of Hood River, OR where I tried out the four-wheel low setting. Over some inclines, light mud, and rocky surfaces, the Grand Vitara felt very solid and secure, and was confidence inspiring.

The GV is rated at 17 city, 23 highway—towards the lower end of the spectrum for its class. My week with the Grand Vitara returned 20 MPG with 60% highway driving.


OVERALL: Low entry price, good capability, mixed feelings
Suzuki is known for packing in the value. My 2010 Grand Vitara Limited V-6 4WD stickered at $28,318 including destination—a fairly low price compared to equally equipped competitors. I couldn't help but love the SUV's appearance, especially with the great-looking 18” wheels/tires—I think it's the best-looking smaller SUV out there. I equally enjoyed the interior's good combo of luxury and practicality.

The true 4WD system is attractive to the small amount of people that may want to actually venture off the pavement, and the fact it is in 4WD all the time means it's on par with all of the other mid-size SUVs and crossovers out there. However, if you actually plan to take it off road, be weary of its low ground clearance (there are aftermarket lift kits available).

Although the GV doesn't have the best ride or power in its class, it is stable and confident, but there are more comfortable cruisers. But for the price of admission you get a lot of truck for the buck. And with the outstanding 7 year, 100,000 powertrain warranty, shoppers may want to take a look at the Grand Vitara on the sheer value aspect.

In the driveway: 2010 Suzuki Grand Vitara Limited V6 4WD

My latest review vehicle is the 2010 Suzuki Grand Vitara V6 4WD. Personally, I think the Grand Vitara, especially with the attractive 18" wheels, is one of the best looking small SUVs on the market. It almost looks a bit like a Land Rover from certain angles.

First impressions: This is a lot of truck for $28,318. The ride is a bit stiff, and the steering isn't sports-car fast, but it's comfortable around town, and has a real selectable four-wheel drive system for bona-fide off-road use. Not a ton of ground clearance, though.

It's attractive, has personality, and does most things well. Along with the SX4 and the Kizashi, it makes me wonder: Why don't more people buy Suzuki automobiles?