Overview & Reviews
The Suzuki Grand Vitara is a small SUV that attempts to deliver the often mutually exclusive attributes of off-road ability and on-road comfort. In its first generation, the Grand Vitara featured a trucklike chassis, V6 power and low-range gearing. The current model is similar, but features a body structure that blends car and truck chassis designs.
Due to a variety of shortcomings, the original Grand Vitara did not achieve a great deal of success in the U.S. marketplace. The current model is greatly improved, however, and even if it lacks the refinement of its many compact SUV competitors, its rough-and-tumble nature makes it a good choice for those who like to escape the urban grind with adventures into the great outdoors.
Current Suzuki Grand Vitara
The Suzuki Grand Vitara has seating for five passengers, a long list of standard features and available four-wheel drive with low-range gearing.
There are four styles available for the Suzuki Grand Vitara: Base, Premium, Ultimate Adventure Edition and Limited. Even base and Premium models are pretty well equipped with features like automatic climate control, full power accessories, a removable Garmin navigation unit and side curtain airbags. The Ultimate Adventure Edition gets a few items that'll come in handy out in the wilderness like heated front seats, water-resistant upholstery and foglights, while the Limited gets luxurious upgrades like leather seating, keyless ignition/entry and a premium sound system. Bluetooth is optional on all but the base Grand Vitara.
Every Suzuki Grand Vitara is powered by a 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder that produces 166 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque. A five-speed manual transmission is standard on base models, while all other versions get a four-speed automatic. Rear-wheel drive is standard across the lineup, but Premium models can also be had with a four-wheel-drive system with a low-range transfer case. Limited models are offered with a four-mode 4WD system (4H, 4H Lock, 4L Lock and N) that allows the Grand Vitara to be flat-towed behind an RV without adding miles to the odometer.
Like most other compact SUVs, the Grand Vitara features a carlike unibody chassis for improved body rigidity, handling and safety. Suzuki has attempted to differentiate it, however, by incorporating a ladder frame design into the unibody structure. The company says this enhances the vehicle's off-road and towing abilities. In editorial reviews, this Suzuki SUV has earned favorable commentary for its long list of standard features, attractive price and above-average abilities when taken off-pavement. Its slow acceleration, unimpressive fuel economy and general lack of refinement, however, make it less appealing than other compact crossovers.
Used Suzuki Grand Vitara Models
The present second-generation Suzuki Grand Vitara debuted for the 2006 model year with one engine -- a 2.7-liter V6 that was capable of 185 hp. Changes were minimal until 2009, when a comprehensive midcycle update brought about the current four-cylinder engine and a much more powerful 3.2-liter V6. The V6 was available on XSport and Luxury trims and made 230 hp and 213 lb-ft of torque. Other changes included some redesigned interior controls and a new grille and front bumper design. Unfortunately, the V6 was discontinued after 2010, but finding a used example from its two years on the market would be a good idea. The Ultimate Adventure Edition was unavailable prior to 2012.
The first-generation Suzuki Grand Vitara debuted for the 1999 model year and lasted through 2005. It served as a replacement for the Sidekick, Suzuki's previous compact SUV. There was also a "regular" Vitara -- the difference between the two was that the Grand Vitara came with a V6 engine and more standard equipment and was available as a four-door body style only.
In its first year, the Grand Vitara was the only small SUV for the U.S. market equipped with a V6 engine. Upon release, this 2.5-liter V6 made 155 hp. Other distinct design elements included a trucklike chassis and low-range gearing on four-wheel-drive models. The main trim levels were either two-wheel-drive JS or four-wheel-drive JLX. There were also "plus" versions that came standard with antilock brakes and alloy wheels. In 2000, a plush Limited model was released that featured, among other luxuries, leather seating. In 2002 the V6 gained 10 more hp, and in 2003 Suzuki simplified the trim levels to be known simply as 2WD and 4WD.
Though many of its specs looked good on paper, this Suzuki Grand Vitara's shortcomings quickly became apparent in editorial reviews. The V6's output lagged behind many competitors' four-cylinder engines; ride quality was poor over rough pavement; and the interior was short on comfort and space. For the most part, shoppers interested in a used SUV should look elsewhere.
User Reviews:
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Very Impressive - 2006 Suzuki Grand Vitara
By dhump33 - March 26 - 11:43 pmMy wife and I never thought we would ever own a Suzuki. We were planning on buying a Honda CRV or a Subaru and then one night we saw the new Suzuki Grand Vitara. After doing our research, viewing the standard options and price we were almost sold. We went for a test drive one and that same weekend purchased it! We are impressed with the interior quality, fit and finish. We are also impressed with its AWD capabilities (we drove it in the snow and torrential rain). We will certainly keep this one, recommend the dealership and the model. Keep up the good work Suzuki!
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I think its a good SUV - 2006 Suzuki Grand Vitara
By drdud - March 25 - 3:26 pmI purchased in may of 2006 ( V6 ),the first year milage was rough , but now im getting 20 plus around town and 25 plus from the N.E. corner of Pa to Phila a 120 mile run . Mostly on the turnpike .Its a pleasure to run the pike with this smooth riding and running SUV. Im pretty pickey . I have purchased 15 new cars and trucks over the years not counting the used ones . I rate this very Good and its easier for me to get in with my bad back then a subaru which is too low.
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Rear Tires Gone Bad - 2006 Suzuki Grand Vitara
By OhioDriver - March 20 - 4:16 amI agree with the 8-18 dated review, by Evelyn, all Vitara owners be on the look out for rear tires going bald, it is not a Yokohama problem, its an alignment issue. DEMAND a courtesy 4 wheel alignment on yours before 12,000 miles or you will be stuck spending $300 on two new rear tires. Mine was out on the alignment report a lot, from the factory, but its too late now.
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Disappointed - 2000 Suzuki Grand Vitara
By LEMON - March 18 - 3:20 pmI have had this vehicle for two years. I have experienced numerous and costly repairs for leaking seals, transmission oil leaks and A/C problems. This truck has been a Lemon with a capital "L". I would NEVER buy one of these again. My extended warranty has not covered any of the repairs and service has been SLLLLOOOWW getting vehicle back to us.
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Our replacement vehicle - 2008 Suzuki Grand Vitara
By Previous CRV owner - March 17 - 12:23 amI wasnt looking at Suzuki at first to replace our 2004 Honda CRV which was totaled after a accident but after owning and driving the Vitara I am quite impressed with its performance and styling, inside and out. The fwd/rear mounted engine is easy to work on, having low range control is great.
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Multiple problems down the line - 2001 Suzuki Grand Vitara
By waguy2012 - March 9 - 7:24 pmThe one thing that i have a problem with this car is that it leaks a ton in the front. I had it checked and multiple mechanics cant figure out where the leak is coming from. My dad and i replace some seals in the front and the leak stopped for a bit but then it comes back with a vengeance. When we go one drives just 10-15 miles down the road there will be small puddle of oil on the ground. Just a little annoying and i hope it doesnt lead to bigger problems. We are at 175,000 miles on it so i guess thats what we get for having it so long! :) Also, be caeful w/ the air conditioning. Ours went out and now to replace it will cost $$$$$$. Rather wait to get a new car than pay for repairs.
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One Fun Ride - 2007 Suzuki Grand Vitara
By Mizuki - March 8 - 2:43 amI just got this rascal. I originally was looking for an Acura MDX, Honda Pilot or CR-V. My salesman suggested I check out the Grand Vitara since it would be a secondary vehicle. I did and bought it before even driving it. Ive owned Hondas since 1982 and this is my first venture to another brand. The warranty was the major factor but the "coolness" of the SUV sealed the deal.
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Dont buy a grand vitara (WARNING) - 2007 Suzuki Grand Vitara
By theresaarn - March 8 - 12:13 amWARNING This car is a piece of junk, dont dare buy one. Anyone who tries to convince you to buy this junker is pulling your leg. I bought a brand new 2007 grand vitara and I must say it is the worst car EVER! I have only had it for a little of a year and the back tires are bald with only 20,000 miles on it. You feel like you are in a tin can that is bouncing around on the road. If you really want to find out how this car rides, get in the back seat and let someone else drive it. You will be so uncomfortable. The leather is the very cheap stuff and you can tell just by looking at it. When you have the heat or the air on you feel like you are in a wind tunnel ( no kidding).
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In a different class - 2007 Suzuki Grand Vitara
By gren - March 7 - 6:36 amThe Grand Vitara shouldnt be place in the same category as any other compact "S.U.V." because it is actually built with proper 4WD running gear. The GV is the only vehicle in this "class" that offers a strong body construction and low-range gearbox. When driving this car it feels a lot bigger than the RAV4. It might not drive like all the others in this class on the black top (car like) but off-road, the Suzuki has no competition.
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Happy New Owner - 2006 Suzuki Grand Vitara
By spbehrens - March 4 - 8:36 pmMy 2006 Suzuki Grand Vitara has clean lines and an aggressive look. My wife finds it easy to drive and maneuver. It provides good comfort over longer distances. The fuel economy is much better than our previous 1998 Isuzu Trooper. The price was very good considering all you get for the money. Our dealer is friendly and helpful.
