TECHNICAL GLOSSARY

Below is a list of terms and definitions that are used throughout the Suzuki Auto site.

3-Mode Intelligent All-Wheel Drive (i-AWD™): A highly sophisticated drive system that allows the driver to select how power is delivered to all four wheels depending on road conditions-- from 2-wheel-drive for maximum fuel efficiency, to all-wheel-drive for rainy days, to 4-wheel-drive for maximum traction on ice and snow.
AM/FM/CD/MP3/WMA XM Satellite Radio-capable audio system: What ever you listen to, Suzuki's AM/FM/CD/MP3/WMA XM Satellite Radio-capable audio system delivers. From AM talk, to FM rock or CD w/ MP3 files, you're covered. And you also have available the full satellite radio programming spectrum. Never drive in silence again.
Anti-lock brake system (ABS): Anti-lock brake system (ABS) keeps the wheels from locking and skidding during panic stop situations. This allows the driver to maintain directional stability and steer out of trouble.
Automatic lighting system: Automatic lighting system turns the headlights "On" in low ambient light and "Off" when daylight is normal. It also includes daytime running lights (DRL) so other drivers can see your vehicle more easily for increased safety.
Bluetooth®: A specification for short-range radio links between mobile computers, mobile phones, digital cameras, and other portable devices. Supplies hands-free phone calls through the GPS's integrated microphone and speaker.
Body-on-frame: A design where the frame is the structural or load-carrying member of the vehicle. The frame supports the engine and body, and is in turn supported by the wheels and tires. The body is a separate unit that bolts to the frame. Benefits of this type of construction include ease of frame repair.
Built-in ladder frame/body construction (Grand Vitara): Built-in ladder frame construction merges a frame and unibody into a single, solid body. This type of construction combines weight reduction and rigidity while providing you better road handling and off-road performance.
Climate control: Integrated with the air conditioning system, climate control automatically maintains the temperature set for riding comfort. In addition, micron air-filtration filters out dust and pollen.
Compression ratio: The ratio of the piston cylinder chamber volume when the piston is at its full downward position (BDC or bottom dead center) versus the piston cylinder volume when the piston is at its full upward position (TDC or top dead center). It describes the degree of compression of the combustible gases within the cylinder.
Compression stroke: The part of the combustion cycle where the intake valve closes as the piston travels back up the cylinder, thereby compressing the air-fuel mixture.
Continuously Variable Transmission: A continuously variable transmission (CVT) is a transmission which can change steplessly through an infinite number of effective gear ratios between maximum and minimum values. This contrasts with other mechanical transmissions that only allow a few different distinct gear ratios to be selected. The flexibility of a CVT allows the driving shaft to maintain a constant angular velocity over a range of output velocities. This can provide better fuel economy than other transmissions by enabling the engine to run at its most efficient revolutions per minute (RPM) for a range of vehicle speeds.

A CVT uses a pulley system and drive belts or chains to provide a near infinite range of "gear" ratios. The system is constantly adjusting to find the ratio that gets the most out of the engine for the task at hand. Drivers feel no gear changes, but can hear a relatively constant engine note that may not seem in sync with actual acceleration.
Curb weight: Refers to the weight of a vehicle that is ready to drive. This weight includes all standard equipment, oil, lubricants, and a full tank of gasoline.
Departure angle: Maximum angle, in degrees, of a line running rearward and upward from the rear tire contact point to the lowest obstruction under the rear of the vehicle.
Direct ignition system: Maintenance-free, direct ignition system (DIS) delivers powerful sparks directly to the plugs for maximum economy and low emissions.
Disc brakes: Disc brakes consist of a caliper which fits over a brake rotor that turns with the wheel. Apply the brakes, and the brake pads pinch the disc, stopping the vehicle. Lightweight and better cooling property allows for greater stopping power.
Displacement: The primary measurement for engine size. Displacement represents the theoretical volume of the air-fuel mixture that can be inducted by all of the cylinders on their intake stroke. It is determined by taking the volume of each cylinder (which is based on its bore and stroke), then multiplying by the number of cylinders.
DOHC: Acronym for Double Overhead Camshafts; using two camshafts positioned over the valves, overhead cams efficiently open and close the valves to allow for more efficient breathing of the engine. As result, DOHC design contributes to a more powerful and fuel efficient engine.
Electronic Brake-Force Distribution (EBD): Electronic brake-force distribution (EBD) optimizes braking force applied to the front and rear wheels during panic braking situations to reduce the possibility of dangerous rear-wheel lockup. EBD enables the driver to maneuver the vehicle around dangerous obstacles without losing control of the vehicle.
Electronic Stability Program®: Electric Stability Program® (ESP) is integrated with the Anti-lock Brake System (ABS). With the technology to brake individual wheels, ESP uses wheel sensors and additional sensors to monitor vehicle directional response compared to a driver's steering input. When these sensors detect the vehicle straying from the driver's intended travel line, ESP automatically brakes individual wheels to help maintain safe vehicle control.
Electronically-controlled automatic transmission: Automatic transmission shifts are controlled by electronic solenoids. Hence, transmission shift patterns can seamlessly match the engine power to deliver best performance and fuel economy.
Full-time single-mode 4WD system (Grand Vitara): Full-time single-mode four-wheel-drive system on the Grand Vitara delivers power continuously to front and rear wheels for maximum on-road traction in various slippery road conditions.
Full-time Four-Mode 4WD system (Grand Vitara): With a dual-range transfer case, the Grand Vitara's four-mode full-time four-wheel drive matches any highway or off-road driving conditions. Four High (4H) provides full-time all-wheel drive for safety and optimal traction. In loose traction conditions such as in dirt tracks and snow, shift into 4 High Lock. For some serious off-roading, there's 4 Low Lock for maximum traction and power. Or shift into Neutral and your Grand Vitara is ready to be flat towed.
Gas-pressurized shock absorbers: High performance shock absorbers that use an inert gas to keep the hydraulic fluid from "foaming," thereby reducing the shock absorbers' performance.
Horsepower: The measure of the engine's ability to do work over time. One unit of horsepower is the power required to lift 550-pounds one foot in one second.
HomeLink® wireless control system (Grand Vitara): HomeLink® starts with a vehicle-mounted transceiver that's programmed to activate radio frequency (RF) controlled devices, such as garage doors, gates or home lighting. Now when pulling up to your residence, open the garage door and pull into a lighted garage, or you can turn on the house lights from the car for peace of mind.
Independent MacPherson strut front suspension: A MacPherson strut combines a spring and shock absorber into a light, compact suspension unit. This design provides a comfortable and stable ride, along with a tight turning radius.
Independent multi-link rear suspension: A system which uses multiple suspension links to control wheel movement. Since each wheel moves independently, multi-link rear suspension helps tires deliver maximum traction as well as a smoother ride.
In-line engine: Engine configuration which has the cylinders arranged in a straight line.
Liquid-filled engine mounts: Liquid-filled engine mounts are hydraulically tuned to help cancel out engine noise and vibration, helping to keep the cabin quiet.
MacPherson strut: A compact, efficient suspension system that features "struts" that combine the coil spring and shock absorber in one system. This design is popular because it uses fewer parts than double-wishbone or multi-link systems.
Manual transmissions: Manual transmissions use a foot-operated clutch pedal to help disengage the transmission from the engine in order to select the proper gear ratio for the desired speed.
Micron air-filtration system: The air exchange system utilizes a micron air filter that filters out dust, dirt, and pollen to help keep cabin air contaminant-free.
MSN® Direct: Broadcasts dynamic content from MSN® Direct to the GPS navigator, including real-time local weather, traffic, movie times, stock information, gas prices, news and local events.
Multi-link suspension: A suspension system that uses multiple links to control wheel movement. Similar to "double-wishbone" suspension.
Navi/Navigation System: A computer in a vehicle which provides directions to a destination.
Paddle Shifters: F-1-style steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters are for those who prefer to set it on automatic now and then but also want the control of shifting the performance-tuned CVT transmission with the touch of the finger tips.
Power tilt-and-slide sunroof: A luxury option at a Suzuki value price. A push of a button tilts then slides the sunroof open for the best open air motoring this side of a convertible.
Powertrain: The engine, transmission, and final drive of a vehicle.
Privacy glass: Darkly tinted glass at the second-row window and rearward that obscures the view of the interior from the outside. In addition, privacy glass helps keep the interior cooler by minimizing sun exposure in the interior.
Rack-and-pinion steering: A steering system that uses a pinion gear located at the base of the steering column. This type of steering is very responsive and precise and provides minimal steering effort while maintaining excellent road feel.
Safetybelt pretensioners: Seatbelt pretensioners are an important safety system that tightens driver and front passenger seatbelts in the first milliseconds of an accident. With a tightened belt, the passenger's risk of injury from striking interior surfaces is further reduced.
Second-generation dual-stage airbags: Second-generation dual-stage airbag system is equipped with sensors to select an optimum inflation level for a seat occupant. This maximizes airbag protection.
Shift-on-the-fly: Allows the driver to shift into four-wheel drive without stopping to engage or disengage the front hubs.
Side airbags (seat mounted and curtain): Side airbags, mounted on the seat sides and/or at the top of the windows add an extra safety margin. Upon inflation, they help keep the occupants' body or head from striking a hard door panel or window surface.
SmartPass™ keyless entry and start system: No more fumbling through your purse or pocket to unlock the door. Upon pressing a Request Button, Smart Pass ™ System uses sensors to automatically detect the key fob, and allowing the door to unlock. The engine can be started similarly without touching your key.
Speed sensing volume control: Speed sensing volume control is a fully automatic function requiring no driver input that lowers or raises the stereo volume in coordination with speed reduction or influx. Whether exiting or entering the highway, the speed sensing volume controls maintains the stereo volume at an audible level.
Speed-sensitive power-assisted steering (SSPS): Speed-sensitive power-assisted steering (SSPS) adjusts steering effort to match vehicle speed. Backing into a parking spot, steering is finger tip light. At highway speeds, there's increased feel so the driver can maintain precise control.
Sport Utility Vehicle: A vehicle that combines the rugged performance of a truck with the passenger-carrying capacity of a sedan.
Steering-wheel-mounted audio controls: Steering-wheel-mounted audio controls gives drivers a convenient way to adjust the audio system while keeping their hands on the wheel and eyes on the road.
Strut-tower brace: The brace, a tubular steel component over the engine, increases torsional rigidity and reduces body flex, which helps improve the ride quality.
Tachometer: An instrument that displays engine speed as measured by revolutions per minute (rpm).
Three-point seat belt: Active occupant restraint system in which a continuous fabric belt is fastened normally to near the centerline of a vehicle to provide horizontal restraint at hip level and diagonal restraint from outer shoulder across the chest.
Tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS): Tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) senses tire air pressure and alerts the driver when pressure drops 25 percent or more below the recommended inflation level in one or more tires. This reduces the possibility of driving on under inflated tires, which can be dangerous.
Torque: The amount of turning force leverage generated by an engine, measured at the end of the crankshaft. Torque determines acceleration rates and is measured in "lb.-ft."
Touchscreen: A touch-sensitive display screen: touching different portions of the screen with a finger will cause the computer to take actions determined by a program.
Traction control: Using electronic sensors, Traction Control System detects and limits wheel slip during acceleration. This makes driving in slippery conditions easier and safer.
Transfer case: A device used in a four-wheel-drive vehicle that allows power to be delivered to both front and rear axles.
Unibody: A type of body construction that does not require a separate frame for structural strength.
Variable induction system (VIS): Variable induction system (VIS) increases power throughout the entire engine RPM range. It tunes the intake length to best match the engine RPM for best efficiency.
Variable intermittent windshield wipers: When it's raining lightly, intermittent windshield wipers allow you to vary the wiper sweep interval to keep the windshield clear.
Ventilated disc brakes: Disc brakes that have a series of passages cast into the disc in order to allow air to circulate through the disc itself, helping to reduce the chance of heat build-up.
Wheelbase: The distance from the center of the front wheel to the center of the rear wheel. Vehicles with a longer wheelbase are more stable than vehicles with a shorter wheelbase, but the latter are more maneuverable.
Wheel lock-up: The point at which a brake wheel ceases to turn while the vehicle is still moving and the tires start to skid.
Zero-maintenance cam timing chain: Suzuki's zero-maintenance cam timing chain lasts the life of the engine. By comparison, a cam timing belt has to be replaced periodically, which increases vehicle ownership costs.