After a decade and a half without significant changes, Suzuki is giving its iconic Carry kei truck a much-needed refresh. The updated model features a modernized exterior, enhanced practicality inside, and improved safety technology, aiming to keep the popular workhorse competitive in Japan’s bustling market for compact trucks.
Subtle Style Upgrades
While the overall body design remains familiar, Suzuki has sharpened the Carry’s look with new headlights featuring horizontal LED clusters housed within darker surrounds. This gives the truck a slightly more rugged and contemporary appearance. The grille has been slimmed down, and the bumper intake is larger. These changes carry over to the Super Carry, which boasts a taller roof and extended cabin, differentiated by glossy black trim between its headlights.
A special edition X Limited variant of the Super Carry stands out with bold Suzuki lettering replacing the standard badge, along with glossy black accents on the grille, bumper, and fog light surrounds. The truck also receives distinctive black body graphics, matching steel wheels, and door handles.
Practical Improvements Inside
Suzuki hasn’t entirely modernized the Carry’s cabin—it still feels distinctly old-school—but there are notable upgrades. Every model now comes with a digital instrument cluster housed behind a two-spoke steering wheel that evokes a classic work truck aesthetic. While an infotainment system isn’t integrated, a space for an optional 8-inch touchscreen is provided in the center console. Practical touches include newly added cupholders beneath the air vents and a passenger seat assist grip.
Safety has been significantly boosted with standard features like Dual Sensor Brake Support II AEB (autonomous emergency braking), Lane Departure Prevention, Sign Recognition, Start Notification Function, Emergency Stop signal, front and rear parking sensors, and a helpful “mud-escape assistance” function for slippery conditions.
Familiar Powertrain Under the Hood
Suzuki hasn’t disclosed complete mechanical specifications, but it’s widely anticipated that the updated Carry and Super Carry will retain their familiar 658cc three-cylinder engine producing 50 hp (37 kW) and 59 Nm (43.5 lb-ft) of torque. Drivers can continue to choose between rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive configurations, paired with either a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic transmission.
Affordable Refresh in Japan’s Kei Market
Sales of the refreshed Carry lineup are expected to begin in Japan within the coming months. Exact pricing will be announced closer to launch but is projected to remain competitive, starting around ¥1,051,600 ($7,000) and topping out around ¥1,514,700 ($9,800), depending on the chosen trim level. The Carry faces strong competition from long-standing rivals like the Daihatsu Hijet.
Suzuki’s updates demonstrate a strategic approach to staying relevant in a demanding market segment: retaining core practicality while injecting modern touches and safety enhancements to appeal to budget-conscious buyers who rely on these versatile workhorses.
