Suzuki Motor Corp. introduced its third-generation Escudo in Japan.

Originally introduced in 1988, the Escudo sport-utility vehicle gained international fame as the Vitara/Grand Vitara.

The New Escudo was previewed as the Concept-X2 at the New York Autoshow earlier this year.

New Escudo features unibody, ladder-frame chassis. It is equipped with a full-time four-wheel drive system with locking central differential. There's all-independent suspension around.

Major external dimensions: LxWxH (mm): 4390x1810x1695 mm. Wheelbase: 2640 mm.

There are two engines: a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder petrol, capable of 107 kW (145 PS) @ 6000 rpm and 193 Nm @ 4000 rpm; and a 2.7-liter V6 petrol engine capable of 135 kW (184 PS) @ 6000 rpm and 250 Nm @ 4500 rpm. Transmission options for the smaller engine include five-speed-manual or four-speed auto, while the bigger engine gets a five-speed auto.

Standard equipment includes high-intensity discharge headlamps, satellite navigation, electronic stability program, ABS with EBD, front dual airbags, side curtain airbag, ISOFIX child seat fixings etc.

Monthly sales target in Japan: 15000 units.

http://www.autoindex.org/news.plt?no=1140#

 

the front end and interior are looking pretty good

 

What the heck is that thing on the front drivers fender? a mini snorkel?

The rear looks like a RAV4's.

 

Another rearview mirror to help with parking. Pretty common in the Japanese market. I doubt it'd make it here to the USA.

 

I think it's got more than a hint of Montero in it. :ugh:

 

Suzuki has revealed the first official pictures of the new Grand Vitara range which will have its world premiere at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September.

Initially the range will consist of two 5-door models – the 2.0-litre petrol and the 1.9-litre diesel – and a 1.6-litre petrol SWB 3-door model. Both petrol engine models will be available with an optional automatic transmission and all utilise an all-new Suzuki designed permanent four-wheel drive system.


For the first time Suzuki has opted for unitary construction for the Grand Vitara, although ingeniously the monocoque incorporates a ‘built in’ ladder frame to provide the necessary rigidity to ensure exceptional off road ability.


Substantially longer and wider than their predecessors, both 3 and 5-door models will come exceptionally well equipped with higher levels of safety, passenger comfort and interior room.

Prices and exact mechanical and equipment specifications will be announced at Frankfurt.


http://www.japanesecarfans.com/news....id/2050809.008

Obviously the engines mentioned here are for the European market. We'll get a V6 of some sort here in the USA.

 

What platform is this? Where will it be made for the N Am market?

 

It's the uh...Suzuki Grand Vitara platform? And it'll be made in uh...Japan?

Heh, I'm not sure. But yeah, I'd wager a guess it's not sharing something else's platform and it'll be built back in JDM-land.

 

A platform with only one vehicle? How old-fashioned.

 

suzuki's movin' on up! :chuckles: