Suzuki Vitara III (JT) photos

Unveiled in mid-2005, the third-generation Suzuki Vitara (JT chassis series) shifted to a mono-frame architecture featuring an integrated ladder frame fused directly into a unibody shell. The chassis incorporated four-wheel independent suspension with MacPherson struts up front and a multi-link rear setup. Offered in 3-door and 5-door body styles, the drivetrain upgraded to permanent four-wheel drive with a lockable center differential and low-range transfer gears across most model trim levels.

Initial engine offerings included 1.6-liter inline-four (106 hp for 3-door models), 2.0-liter inline-four (140 hp), 2.7-liter V6 (185 hp), and a Renault-sourced 1.9-liter DDiS turbodiesel engine. A major mechanical refresh in 2008 introduced revised 2.4-liter four-cylinder (169 hp) and 3.2-liter V6 (233 hp) engines with variable valve timing, as well as rear disc brakes and subtle exterior styling modifications. A second minor facelift occurred in 2012.