Overview & Reviews
By the late 1990s, the major Japanese automakers had established a new design direction for compact SUVs by introducing models with car-based platforms for enhanced comfort and efficiency. However, Suzuki had been in the cute-ute business longer than almost anyone, and when the time came to replace its long-running Sidekick, Suzuki stuck to its traditions for the then-new Vitara.
Essentially, the Suzuki Vitara was born with the roots of a truck. Instead of adapting new, lighter unibody construction, the Suzuki maintained a rugged body-on-frame design. Every Vitara rode on a solid-rear-axle suspension and came with either rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive with low-range gearing. Thanks to 8 inches of ground clearance, 4WD models possessed better-than-average off-road ability. An available two-door convertible body style also made it possible to equip a Vitara as a fun-in-the-sun runabout, and responsive steering made it enjoyable on any surface.
Still, the Suzuki Vitara had too many detriments weighing it down in real-world driving. Slow acceleration was a problem with either of the small four-cylinder engines, and a hard-to-shift manual transmission didn't help. The low-tech suspension could never absorb bumps very well, the rear seat was cramped (space was identical in both body styles) and cargo capacity was a modest 45 cubic feet even on the four-door. Finally, the interior looked dated even when new, and some of its controls weren't user-friendly.
Suzuki raised the Vitara's standards in power and features over time, but at both the beginning and end, we'd still say Honda, Toyota and Subaru had better SUVs for the street, while Nissan and Jeep had better off-roaders.
Most Recent Suzuki Vitara While the upscale Grand Vitara lived to see another generation, the regular Suzuki Vitara led one lifetime spanning from 1999-2004. Body styles included a four-door hardtop and a two-door convertible soft top that was shorter than the four-door by 11 inches in both length and wheelbase. A 1.6-liter four-cylinder with 97 horsepower was the base engine on two-doors; a 2.0-liter version with 127 hp was optional on the two-door and standard with the four-door. Both engines came with a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic, with shift-on-the-fly four-wheel drive optional with any combination. The Vitara's initial trim lines were JS (2WD) and JX (4WD), though by its second year that expanded with the JLS and JLX, which became the only models with power windows, power locks, air-conditioning, and on the four-door, cruise control. Among two-door Vitaras, the JLS and JLX were also significant for having the more tolerable 2.0-liter engine. Many details changed over the years. Along with the trim line changes for 2000, the two-door Vitara earned standard air-conditioning. For model-year 2001 came a new grille, seat fabric and an easier-to-use stereo. In 2002, the JS and JX got dropped completely and took their 1.6-liter engine with them, trimming the Vitara line down to JLS 2WD and JLX 4WD models. All trim lines vanished for 2003, and only the four-door model made it to the Vitara's final year in 2004, when a 165-hp 2.5-liter V6 became the new engine. If you feel compelled to buy a Suzuki Vitara, later is better: The improved content and ergonomics of more recent models make for a more appealing SUV. Regardless of year, try sticking to models with at least the 2.0-liter engine, whose 127 hp is just enough.
Have owned this car since 2003 and love it. We bought two to replace an Avalanche since we both needed cars in the snowy Appalachians, and mine got to be the 4WD! (Grown son is still driving #2.) I have driven the heck out of this thing for 111,000 miles, and the only thing repaired has been a brake switch (wouldnt allow me to take it out of Park.) That was a mystery at about 60,000 miles. Gas mileage is mid 20s, it has the perfect amount of cargo space for my small family, and the vehicle size is perfect for heavy traffic and parking garages here in Hawaii (yes, we shipped it from the East Coast; couldnt bear to part with it!) I wish these were still available. Im hoping for 100,000!
I bought my Vitara with the hopes of
having a fun, dependable ride. What I
got was a car that constantly creaks
and makes noises. Ive taken it in
twice for the same problem and it still
makes noise! Its the most infuriating
thing! I dread going over a speed bump
or an uneven road. It sounds like my
car is going to fall apart!
I cant believe all the negative
reviews! Ive had mine 3 years and
other than the occasional maintance and
odd adjustments Ive really enjoyed
driving this little beauty! Same
problem with the locked Park they did a
recall. I also had a problem with the
convertable roof but with any
convertable you can expect problems. I
think overall the reliabiliy of the
vehicle comes down to with a reliable
dealership, quality of the vehicle and
how well someone looks after their
vehicle. You really have to think
about what you are buying and why. If
its a fun convertible that is great on
gas - this is the vehicle for you!!
It was a total mistake to purchase this
car. The guy told me that the top was
easy to put down and really fun with it
down. Its nearly impossible to get it
down. I hate this car. Its an
imbarresment to own and my daughter
thinks that it is pretty cool, though.
The engine is so weak and a stick
shift? Who the heck puts a stick shift
in an SUV? At least it is a 5 speed.
This is a rather tinny little car but its sharp looking particularly once you get rid of the boring wheels it comes with. This is our "summer" car, and its got that season written all over it. Absolutely fun to ride in! Ours has the small motor - not powerfull - but adequote with the stick tranny. I like working on my own vehicles; everything is accessible and in plain view! Be carefull on the highway - I suspect this thing could roll if turned very sharply. Good brakes, smooth runner. We doubt well ever get rid of it! Weve had it for three years. If you buy a newer one still under warranty, be warned, Suzuki does not honor expired warranties, even if they are just one mile over!
This vehicle has alot of get up ang go
for a 4 cyclinder. The ride is really
good to. For the money i think i made
the right choice. The 4 wheel drive
will be nice in the winter.
I use this car for work in the city. It
is comfortable, quiet, and well
assembled. Not particularly peppy
(automatic). Visiblity is good. Nice
size, great manuverability. Fine
climate controls. Real bad back seat
leg room if you have two adults in the
front seats. My biggest gripe is that I
cannot seem to exceed 20 mpg city/ 23
mpg hiway (no matter how gently I
drive).
I bought this new to replace my 1994 Geo Metro. With the exception of the air conditioning, this has been an ongoing issue that both the dealership and Suzuki have tried to resolve, even after the warranty had expired, but still goes out every year. I used this car for pizza delivery for many years and it has help up great. This is a great car especially with the top down. I also get between 24 and 27 mpg, in town or on the highway. I do not see differences in mileage in town or on the highway.
I Love my Vitara. It has good pick
up. Plenty of leg room and rides well
on the open road.
I have had my Vitara about 9 yrs with over 130,000 miles.
No repairs needed except an o2 sensor at 100,000 mi
I live in the mountains at about 5000 ft I go off road and drive in snow all the time
* I gave it a 5 for comfort taking into consideration it is a body on frame 4x4 getting 20-25 mpg User Reviews:
Showing 11 through 20 of 57.00
By SCtoHI
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