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.
I am very pleased with the quality and
thoughfulness of the construction of my
Suzuki Grand Vitara. I dont agree
with Edmonds that it is underpowered.
I find the power to be adequate for my
needs. I am also pleased at the number
of features that are standard in the
Suzuki that other makes charge for. I
recently went on a long weekend road
trip and found the Grand Vitara
handled and drove quite well.
The "suggest a style" menu does not
include the EX models, of which mine is.
Ive purchased a used 2001 Grand Vitara
JLX with ABS and alloy wheels.
Ive love the styling and handling of
the vehicle. It has a 155 V6 engine
thats very quiet.
Since Im not 6 tall, theres no
complaints coming from me concerning
head and leg room. Its very
comfortable for the driver as well as
passengers.
Theres only one problem...Ive noticed
that during the cold days, the airbag
light will stay on when you start the
engine. It eventually goes away with
the car is warmed up but after you
restart it.
As Im writing this, the SUV is in the
dealership because its still under
warranty to fix this problem.
I purchases a nearly new 2001 Vitara a
couple months ago. I really love it.
Its my first 4 wheel drive but we
looked at several before purchasing
(including the Liberty and the RAV4).
I enjoy driving it and it works great
on the snow in 4 wheel drive!
I would recommend it to others who are
looking for a decent priced 4 wheel
drive SUV.
Everything in this SUV is doing its job
pretty well. The price is relatively
cheaper. Easy to control. Beautiful
exterier.
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!
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 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
Interior:
The driver seat is big and extremely easy to get into and out of, something that Ford has never been able to accomplish. All controls are within easy reach, and spread out enough that they are easy to find without loooking. Air controls are straightforward, and easy to use.
Exterior:
I like it. Nowhere near as cool as the Saturn VUE, but you get what you pay for. I prefer the side opening rear tailgate rather than the hatchback style.
User Reviews:
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By vintagerodder
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