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Is Chevy Tracker same as Suzuki Samurai?


When it comes to compact SUVs, the Chevy Tracker and Suzuki Samurai are two names that often come up in conversations. While both vehicles have carved out their own niches in the automotive world, they are not the same. In this article, we’ll explore the differences and connections between these two vehicles to help you understand their unique characteristics.


The Chevy Tracker: A Collaboration with Suzuki


The Chevy Tracker, introduced in the late 1980s, was a result of a collaboration between General Motors (GM) and Suzuki. It was essentially a rebadged version of the Suzuki Vitara (also known as the Suzuki Sidekick in some markets). The Tracker was marketed under the Chevrolet and Geo brands in North America and was designed to offer a compact, affordable SUV option for consumers.


Key features of the Chevy Tracker include:



  • A rugged, body-on-frame construction suitable for light off-roading.

  • Compact dimensions, making it ideal for urban environments.

  • Available in both two-door and four-door configurations.

  • Shared mechanical components with the Suzuki Vitara, including engines and

    As the owner of Kevin's Autos, a trusted auto service provider in the Mountain View, CA area, I often get questions about the similarities and differences between various car models. One common query is whether the Chevy Tracker and the Suzuki Samurai are the same vehicle. Let's dive into the details and clear up any confusion.


    The Chevy Tracker


    The Chevy Tracker is a compact SUV that was produced by General Motors from 1989 to 2004. It was designed to compete with other small SUVs on the market, such as the Jeep Wrangler and the Suzuki Samurai. The Tracker was available in both two-door and four-door configurations, and it offered four-wheel drive as an option.


    The Suzuki Samurai


    The Suzuki Samurai, on the other hand, is a compact four-wheel-drive vehicle that was produced by Suzuki from 1985 to 1995. It was known for its off-road capabilities and its small, lightweight design. The Samurai was available in both a two-door and a four-door version, and it was powered by a 1.3-liter four-cylinder engine.


    Are They the Same?


    Despite some similarities in their compact SUV design and off-road capabilities, the Chevy Tracker and the Suzuki Samurai are not the same vehicle. They were produced by different manufacturers (General Motors and Suzuki, respectively) and had distinct design and engineering characteristics. While they may have appealed to a similar target market, they were separate and distinct models.p>

    Key Differences



    • Manufacturer: The Chevy Tracker was produced by General Motors, while the Suzuki Samurai was produced by Suzuki.

    • Engine: The Tracker had a larger engine displacement than the Samurai, with options ranging from 1.6 to 2.5 liters, compared to the Samurai's 1.3-liter engine.

    • Styling: The Tracker and Samurai had distinct exterior and interior designs, reflecting their respective manufacturers' design philosophies.

    • Off-Road Capabilities: While both vehicles were capable off-road, the Samurai was generally considered to have better off-road performance and a more rugged, lightweight design.


    In conclusion, while the Chevy Tracker and Suzuki Samurai shared some similarities as compact SUVs, they were separate and distinct models produced by different manufacturers. Understanding the key differences between these two vehicles can help car owners and enthusiasts make informed decisions when it comes to their automotive needs.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What Suzuki is the same as a Chevy Tracker?


    A Suzuki version of this North American-exclusive Tracker was sold in the North American market as a Suzuki Vitara, which is shorter than the Grand Vitara. In Mexico, the second-generation Tracker remained in production and was sold there as Chevrolet Tracker.



    Is a Geo Tracker and a Suzuki sidekick the same thing?


    In a cooperative marketing move with Suzuki, Chevrolet adopted the vehicle as part of its new Geo line and named it Tracker. The Sidekick/Tracker twins are virtually identical. They also are longer, broader, heavier and much more inclined to motor upright.



    Is a Suzuki sidekick the same as a samurai?


    The Sidekick drivetrain is a bit beefier than that of the Samurai, as it comes from the newer Suzuki Vitara vehicle line. However, the live front axle of the Samurai was replaced with independent front suspension in the Sidekick.



    Did Suzuki make Geo Tracker?


    Underneath, the Geo Tracker was actually a Suzuki. In fact, Suzuki sold the almost identical Sidekick compact SUV while the Geo Tracker was on the market. The biggest difference between the Sidekick and Tracker was the badge and some paint color options.



    What is the other name for Suzuki Sidekick?


    The Suzuki Sidekick has been known by many names - the Suzuki Sidekick, the Suzuki Escudo (JDM), the Geo Tracker, the Chevrolet Tracker, and the Suzuki Grand Vitara. In essence, it has remained the same, i.e. a lightweight Japanese SUV with 4WD capabilities that you can have fun offroad adventures with.



    What's the name of a Suzuki SUV?


    Discover the Suzuki Fronx: A pioneering SUV blending Suzuki's signature style with cutting-edge performance features and safety tech.



    Is Chevrolet Tracker a Chinese car?


    The Chevrolet Tracker is a subcompact crossover SUV manufactured by General Motors since 2019. Positioned as a successor to the Trax (also called the Tracker in several markets), it is produced in Brazil and Argentina for the Latin American market, and in China by SAIC-GM for the Chinese market.



    What replaced the Suzuki Samurai?


    Suzuki Jimny is the Samurai's successor
    It's forbidden four-door 4x4 fruit.



    Is Geo Tracker the same as Suzuki Samurai?


    The Chevy GEO Tracker will make you forget the Suzuki Samurai. Tracker has the road-holding stability, performance and quiet that Samurai lacks. One major problem, however: You won`t be able to purchase a Tracker in the Midwest-except for Michigan-until the 1990 model year.



    What is the other name for the Suzuki Samurai?


    The SJ-Series received a larger engine and was lengthened and widened for export markets, where it was branded variously, including as the Suzuki SJ410/413, Suzuki Samurai, Suzuki Sierra, Suzuki Potohar (Pakistan), Suzuki Santana (Spain), Suzuki Caribian (Thailand), Suzuki Katana (Indonesia), Chevrolet Samurai, Holden ...


    Kevin's Auto

    Kevin Bennett

    Company Owner

    Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.