New Pickup for Suzuki

To help introduce the all-new 2009 Equator Pickup, Suzuki revealed three concepts based on its new truck. The concepts are each aimed at a different set of users: RMZ-4 for off-road enthusiasts, Quad for outdoor adventurers, and Quay for boating and watersports fans.

Developed with Nissan North America and based on the Nissan Frontier, the 2009 Equator will go on sale in the U.S. in the fourth quarter of 2008. Offered in both Extended Cab and Crew Cab versions with rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive, Equator will be powered by a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder producing 152 horsepower and 171 lb-ft of torque, or an optional 4.0-liter V6 producing 261 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque.

Designed to appeal to Suzuki motorcycle fans, the RMZ-4 concept aims to match Suzuki's performance-oriented motocross motorcycles by offering rugged off-road performance in a Crew Cab truck. Built by the Carlab of Orange, CA, RMZ-4 features a number of exterior modifications, including a bed extender provided by Amp Research, graphic treatment over bright yellow paint, 18-inch black chrome wheels and specialty Luzlab headlights. Inside the RMZ-4 has an impressive sound system to match the aggressive exterior design, with an Alpine HD-Radio unit connected to Rockford Fosgate amp and speaker components.

Also created by Carlab, the Quay concept is built to suit the interests of boating and watersports enthusiasts and the custom paint job is designed to reflect the look of Suzuki's line of marine engines. Based on the Extended Cab Equator with long bed and strong towing capabilities, the truck is also equipped with a state-of-the-art Visteon nav-control head unit that provides satellite radio, MP3 and navigation capabilities, in addition to the Rockford Fosgate amp and speaker components. Fitted with special 20-inch wheels, the Quay also sports a matching locking hard tonneau cover.

Developed by Andry Specialty Vehicles of Torrance, Calif., the Quad concept is based on the Crew Cab Equator and designed to resemble the Suzuki QuadRunner ATV. With a military look and custom flat olive metallic paint, the Quad receives a 2.5-inch front lift,17-inch custom aluminum wheels, Yokohama Geolander tires, a set of 500 series fog lights, a safari-style front bumper, a front skidplate and tubular rocker guards.

The exterior design of the Equator includes Suzuki elements in the hood, front fenders, grille, bumpers, front fascia and tailgate. A high-utility bed is offered with a spray-on bedliner and a tie-down system with adjustable tracks in the bed floor and bed side rails, and adjustable utility cleats. A full range of accessories will be offered to use with the channel system such as bed dividers, sliding cargo trays and modular storage units.

Inside the Equator there's room for up to five adults, and both Extended Cab and Crew Cab versions have flip-up rear seats, a fold-flat front passenger seat and removable storage boxes under the rear seats to provide additional cargo capacity. Equator Crew Cab also will offer available leather-appointed seats, a power-adjustable driver's seat, heated seats, heated mirrors and a factory-installed moonroof.