mall but mighty. That’s the Suzuki Carry in a nutshell. This pint-sized Kei truck wasn’t built to dominate the Dakar Rally, but give it a trail, a little time, and the right gear—and it’ll surprise you.
Whether you're turning your Carry into a trail-conquering machine or just looking to make it more trail-friendly for weekend exploring, this guide covers the essentials to take your mini truck on big adventures.
???? 1. Tires & Wheels: Grip Is Everything
Stock wheels are cute, but they won't cut it in the mud. The first mod every off-road Carry should get? All-terrain or mud-terrain tires.
Recommended size: 23”–25” OD (depends on lift)
Top picks: Maxxis MT-764, Yokohama Geolandar A/T, or the classic BFG KO2 (if you can fit 'em)
Consider lightweight aftermarket wheels or steelies for durability and looks
Pro tip: A little tire goes a long way when your truck weighs less than a UTV.
????️ 2. Lift Kits & Suspension: Get That Clearance
Ground clearance is your best friend. A basic 2” lift kit can transform your Carry from “cute” to “capable.”
Spacer lifts are the most common and affordable
Upgraded shocks or struts help with trail damping and load support
Watch for CV angle stress on 4WD models—go slow on the lift
????️ 3. Skid Plates & Protection: Save the Belly
You’re riding low. Even with a lift, the Carry’s underbelly is exposed.
Custom skid plates protect oil pans and diffs
Rock sliders or reinforced side steps guard the sills
Keep an eye on your departure angle—those rear corners can take a hit
???? 4. Trail Lighting: See and Be Seen
These trucks weren’t designed with off-roading in mind, so trail lighting is a must.
LED light bars for night runs
Ditch lights for corner illumination
Rear floods for reversing in tight spots
Bonus: a 12V auxiliary panel makes controlling them all clean and easy.
???? 5. Roof Racks & Storage: Pack Light, Pack Smart
The bed’s great for gear, but a roof rack or bed rack opens up real overlanding potential.
Mount a rooftop tent or awning if you’re going full-send
Secure recovery gear and tools with MOLLE panels or tie-downs
Cab storage is tight, so maximize vertical space
???? 6. Recovery Gear: Because You Will Get Stuck
You’re not invincible. Even with lockers (if you’re lucky), mud and snow don’t care.
Compact winch with custom front mount
Recovery boards like MAXTRAX or X-Bull
Soft shackles, tow straps, and a solid shovel
????️ 7. Engine Mods & Trail Prep
Your Carry won’t be breaking speed records, but a few mods help it breathe easier.
Snorkel for water crossings and clean air
High-flow air filter and exhaust upgrades for slight gains
Cooling mods for long climbs or warm climates
???? 8. Trail Driving Tips for the Suzuki Carry
Lightweight trucks drive differently. Learn your rig’s limits and you'll go further.
Air down your tires for traction (just not too far—no beadlocks!)
Mind your breakover angle
Avoid high-centering on rocks and logs
Carry momentum, but don’t abuse the clutch
???? Final Thoughts: Small Truck, Big Heart
The Suzuki Carry might not look like a trail rig, but with a little work and a lot of spirit, it’s a true backwoods companion. It's cheap to run, easy to modify, and best of all—fun as hell.
Whether you're crawling fire roads, camp-trailing with friends, or just flexing at the trailhead, your mini truck has big potential.