The current Suzuki Grand Vitara represents the model’s second generation and has been available since the 2006 model year. This compact SUV has seating for five passengers, V6 power, a long list of standard features and available four-wheel drive with low-range gearing.
There are three styles available for the Suzuki Grand Vitara: base, XSport and Luxury. Even base models are pretty well equipped with features like automatic climate control, full power accessories and side and side curtain airbags. The XSport has a few additional items including keyless startup, while the top-line Luxury has, well, luxurious upgrades like leather seating.
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.
The Suzuki Grand Vitara is equipped with a 2.7-liter V6 engine that’s capable of 185 horsepower. A five-speed manual is standard on the base model, while a five-speed automatic is optional. Luxury and XSport versions have that automatic as a standard feature. A four-wheel-drive system with low-range gearing is available for all trim levels.
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. Downsides mainly revolve around the engine, which our editors have found to be noisy and lacking in power at highway speeds and when carrying or towing large loads.
Changes have been minimal since this generation’s Grand Vitara debuted. Most notably, there was a midlevel Premium trim that was available for 2006 and ’07.
