The Chevrolet Tracker II 2.5i V6 Automatic, produced between 2001 and 2004, represented a significant shift for the Tracker line. This second generation, based on the Suzuki Grand Vitara, moved away from the smaller, more utilitarian first generation and aimed for a more refined and capable compact SUV experience. In the US market, it served as a relatively affordable entry into the growing SUV segment, offering a V6 engine and automatic transmission – a combination not always standard in its price bracket. The Tracker II was a rebadged version of the Suzuki Grand Vitara, a result of GM’s partnership with Suzuki at the time. This variant, with its 2.5-liter V6, occupied a mid-range position within the Tracker II lineup, sitting above the base 2.0-liter four-cylinder models but below any potential limited edition or off-road focused trims.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Tracker |
| Generation | Tracker II |
| Type (Engine) | 2.5 i V6 (167 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2001 |
| End of production | 2004 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 12.4 l/100 km (19 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 11.2 l/100 km (21 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 160 km/h (99.42 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.1 kg/Nm |
| Power | 167 Hp @ 6500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 67 Hp/l |
| Torque | 220 Nm @ 4000 rpm (162.26 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | H25A |
| Engine displacement | 2494 cm3 (152.19 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 75 mm (2.95 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1335 kg (2943.17 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1810 kg (3990.37 lbs.) |
| Max load | 475 kg (1047.2 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 575 l (20.31 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1265 l (44.67 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 66 l (17.44 US gal | 14.52 UK gal) |
| Length | 4059 mm (159.8 in.) |
| Width | 1694 mm (66.69 in.) |
| Height | 1689 mm (66.5 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2479 mm (97.6 in.) |
| Front track | 1460 mm (57.48 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1460 mm (57.48 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Worm-reduction unit |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 215/70 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Tracker II 2.5i V6 was the H25A engine, a 2.5-liter, naturally aspirated V6. This engine, sourced from Suzuki, featured a 60-degree V-angle and utilized a cast iron block with an aluminum cylinder head. The engine employed multi-port fuel injection, delivering fuel directly into each intake port for improved combustion efficiency. The overhead camshaft (OHC) design simplified the valvetrain, contributing to smoother operation. The 4-speed automatic transmission, while not the most modern, was known for its reliability and adequate performance for the vehicle’s intended use. It was a conventional hydraulic automatic, offering a relatively smooth, if not particularly sporty, driving experience. The longitudinal engine placement was a key characteristic, contributing to the rear-wheel-drive layout.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.5-liter V6, producing 167 horsepower, provided adequate power for everyday driving and highway cruising. However, it wasn’t a particularly quick vehicle. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph was estimated to be around 9-10 seconds. The automatic transmission, while smooth, lacked the responsiveness of a manual gearbox. Gear ratios were tuned for fuel economy and comfortable cruising rather than outright performance. Compared to the base 2.0-liter four-cylinder Tracker II, the V6 offered a noticeable improvement in acceleration and overall drivability, especially when fully loaded or tackling inclines. The rear-wheel-drive configuration provided a slightly more balanced feel compared to front-wheel-drive alternatives, though it didn’t offer the all-weather capability of an all-wheel-drive system.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.5i V6 Automatic trim typically included standard features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, and an AM/FM stereo. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with options for leather available. Dashboard configuration was relatively simple and functional, prioritizing usability over luxury. Optional extras included a sunroof, upgraded audio system, and alloy wheels. The Tracker II aimed for a balance between affordability and features, offering a reasonable level of equipment for its price point. Safety features were basic for the time, typically including ABS brakes and dual front airbags.
Chassis & Braking
The Tracker II utilized a body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable chassis. Front suspension consisted of a spring strut setup, while the rear employed a coil spring arrangement. The rear brakes were drum brakes, a cost-saving measure compared to disc brakes on all four wheels. Ventilated disc brakes were used on the front axle to provide adequate stopping power. Stabilizer bars were present on both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The suspension tuning prioritized ride comfort over sporty handling, resulting in a relatively soft and compliant ride.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Chevrolet Tracker II 2.5i V6 Automatic received mixed reviews. Critics praised its affordability and the added power of the V6 engine compared to the base model. However, the automatic transmission was often criticized for its lack of responsiveness, and the interior was considered somewhat basic. Fuel economy was also a concern, averaging around 19 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway. Compared to competitors like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4, the Tracker II offered a lower price point but lacked the refinement and fuel efficiency of those models. The 2.0-liter four-cylinder Tracker II offered better fuel economy but significantly less power, making the V6 a popular choice for those prioritizing performance.
Legacy
The Chevrolet Tracker II 2.5i V6 Automatic, while not a groundbreaking vehicle, provided a solid and affordable SUV option for consumers in the early 2000s. The H25A V6 engine proved to be relatively reliable, and the automatic transmission, while not particularly advanced, was generally durable. Today, these vehicles are relatively common in the used car market, often found with high mileage but still running. Maintenance costs are generally reasonable, and parts availability is decent. However, potential buyers should be aware of potential rust issues, particularly in areas with harsh winters. The Tracker II represents a transitional period in SUV design, bridging the gap between traditional body-on-frame SUVs and the more modern, car-based crossovers that would soon dominate the market.
