| Production | |
|---|---|
| Model Year: | 1989 |
| Production Years: | 1988 - 1998 discontinued in 1998 |
The Suzuki Escudo I, produced between 1988 and 1998, marked the Japanese automaker’s entry into the compact SUV segment during a period when sport utility vehicles began gaining popularity worldwide. Known as the Escudo in Japan and parts of Asia, and more commonly recognized as the Suzuki Vitara or Geo Tracker in export markets, this first-generation SUV blended practical off-road capabilities with compact urban dimensions. The Escudo I featured a boxy design typical of late 1980s SUVs, engineered to be a lightweight but robust vehicle, suitable for both city driving and light off-road adventures. While exact metric dimensions may vary slightly by model and market, the standard Suzuki Escudo I measured approximately 3,710 mm (146.1 inches) in length, around 1,680 mm (66.1 inches) in width, and stood about 1,625 mm (64 inches) tall. Its curb weight was approximately 1,200 kg (2,645 lbs), making it relatively lightweight compared to larger SUVs of the era, which contributed to its fuel efficiency and nimble handling. The interior was designed to accommodate four to five passengers with a practical, no-frills layout focused on durability and utility. Notably, the Escudo I offered 4WD options that enhanced its versatility on different terrains, appealing to drivers looking for a multi-purpose vehicle. This generation helped to set the foundation for Suzuki’s continued success in the compact SUV category, offering a model that combined manageable size with off-road potential in one package. For car enthusiasts and potential buyers interested in vintage SUVs or compact crossover comparisons, the Suzuki Escudo I remains a significant model due to its pioneering role and balanced dimensions.
Discover the standout features that make the 1989 Suzuki Escudo I a leader in its class
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The Suzuki Escudo I, produced between 1988 and 1998, is a compact SUV with overall dimensions suitable for a city and off-road vehicle of its time. It measures approximately 3,935 mm (154.9 inches) in length, 1,555 mm (61.2 inches) in width, and has a height of around 1,640 mm (64.6 inches). These dimensions give it a fairly compact footprint, making it easy to maneuver in urban settings while offering adequate interior space and ground clearance for off-road adventures.
The Suzuki Escudo I has a curb weight of approximately 1,200 to 1,300 kg (2,645 to 2,866 lbs), depending on the trim and equipment levels. This relatively lightweight design contributed to its agility and fuel efficiency compared to larger SUVs from the same era, which often weighed over 1,700 kg (3,748 lbs). The lighter weight also improved its off-road capabilities, making it a favorable choice for drivers seeking a small yet capable SUV.
The Suzuki Escudo I features a wheelbase of approximately 2,320 mm (91.3 inches). This relatively short wheelbase supports agile handling and maneuverability, especially in tight city environments and rough terrains. While a shorter wheelbase can sometimes result in a slightly firmer ride, the Escudo balances this by offering a suspension system tuned for a comfortable ride over various surfaces, enhancing stability without compromising off-road agility.
The interior of the Suzuki Escudo I is designed to maximize space within its compact footprint. It comfortably seats four passengers with adequate headroom and legroom for the front and rear occupants, typical for small SUVs of its time. Cargo capacity is modest but practical, with a rear cargo area that can be expanded by folding down the rear seats to accommodate larger items. This combination of passenger comfort and flexible cargo space made the Escudo I a versatile vehicle suitable for both daily use and outdoor activities.
Yes, the Suzuki Escudo I generally fits well into a standard garage. Given its compact dimensions—length of about 3.94 meters (154.9 inches) and width of approximately 1.56 meters (61.2 inches)—it occupies less space than many larger SUVs. Standard garages, which are typically around 6 meters (20 feet) long and 3 meters (10 feet) wide, can accommodate the Escudo I with room to spare for opening doors and comfortable maneuvering.
The Suzuki Escudo I has a ground clearance of approximately 200 mm (7.9 inches), which is favorable among compact SUVs of its era. This clearance allows it to handle unpaved roads, moderate off-road terrain, and obstacles with comparative ease, providing an advantage for recreational off-roading and rural driving. Its compact size combined with this decent ground clearance made it a practical choice for drivers needing both urban utility and off-road functionality.
As the first generation of the Suzuki Escudo introduced in 1988, the Escudo I does not have a predecessor as such, since this model marked Suzuki's initial entry into this compact SUV segment. It laid the foundation for future generations in terms of size and versatility. Subsequent generations evolved with larger dimensions and more advanced technology, reflecting changes in market demands and automotive trends over time.
The Suzuki Escudo I is typically smaller and lighter than contemporaries like the Jeep Cherokee XJ or the first-generation Toyota RAV4 (which appeared slightly later in the mid-1990s). While the Cherokee is longer (around 4,420 mm or 174 inches) and wider (1,690 mm or 66.5 inches), offering more interior space, the Escudo's more compact size makes it notably more maneuverable in urban and off-road environments. Feature-wise, the Escudo I focused on simplicity and ruggedness, whereas rivals like Cherokee often featured more powerful engines and advanced amenities. The Escudo also enjoys a reputation for reliability and efficient 4WD systems despite its modest size.
The Suzuki Escudo I was equipped with a range of small-displacement gasoline engines, typically between 1.6 to 2.0 liters, offering a balance of fuel efficiency and adequate power for light off-roading and city driving. The drivetrain usually featured a part-time or full-time four-wheel-drive system, with options for manual and automatic transmissions. This flexibility allowed drivers to choose setups tailored to their needs, whether prioritizing fuel economy or off-road capability. The vehicle's compact design and relatively light weight helped optimize performance across these engine and drivetrain options.
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