Suzuki Grand Vitara Sport road test
by Stephen Walker
8th July, 2013
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You know or you can imagine what it is like to catch up with a long lost
cousin. Once reunited, you wonder why it has taken so long to get together again. For us, it's like that with the Grand
Vitara. We have driven so many Grand Vitaras over the years that we have lost count of the number. But each time we
reunite we enjoy the get-together so much that we just wish it had occurred much sooner.
Test Car particulars
On this occasion we drive the Suzuki Grand Vitara Sport. Our 4x4 SUV was optioned with the automatic transmission.
Coloured an attractive "Silky Silver" metallic, the test car stood out with its new grille and alloy wheels as
distinguishing features. The most recent update to the Grand Vitara range occured late last year.
Price
The current 'promotional' drive-away price for the Suzuki Grand Vitara Sport automatic is from a highly competitive
$33,990. Metallic paint is optional at $475*.
Driving the Grand Vitara Sport automatic
Visibility is superb, whilst the driving dynamics come in about average. The steering seems suitable, as do the
brakes, but we felt the handling is showing signs of the older design characteristics of the Grand Vitara.
The 2.4 litre 4-cylinder petrol-fuelled engine provides decent performance, but the engine seems basic rather than
sophisticated which probably is a good thing for a vehicle in this price category.
We didn't go off the tarmac on this occasion.
Living with the Grand Vitara Sport automatic
Entry and egress is wonderfully easy, with wide opening doors (see image). And the seating height is aimed just right
for average sized adults. The available space means there is no squeeze, so comfort upfront is good. In the rear, two
adults will be comfortable. The Grand Vitara isn't the quietest car on the road, but I could see no valid reason to
complain because we recognise that it isn't the most expensive either. Suzuki indicate that noise levels have improved
with the most recent model.
Specifications
The four-wheel drive aspects of the respected Suzuki Grand Vitara are well known. But for those who require just two
drive wheels then Suzuki now offer the Grand Vitara package so equipped.
Four-cylinder versions of the Grand Vitara come with a 2.4-litre engine which has 122kW of power (at 6,000rpm) and
225kW of torque (at 4,000rpm). This seems to be a good choice as it propels the car quite well for commuting and local
chores.
The automatic transmission is a four-speed unit. The 4WD is a full-time 4x4 arrangement.
Four-wheel disc brakes are fitted.
Safety
ESP, anti-lock brakes and front, side and curtain airbags are standard equipment.
Fuel and emissions
On the combined cycle, fuel consumption of the Grand Vitara automatic/petrol/4x4 is rated at 9.9 litres per 100 kms.
Our 263 kms was all suburban driving, including about 30 kms of freeway and then split approximately 50/50 between
suburban highway and suburban street motoring. With little open road driving we expected our fuel consumption to be up on
the rated combined cycle. In fact, it was too. We averaged 13.1 litres per 100 kms.
The fuel tank capacity is 66 litres.
CO2 emission rating from the 2.4 litre 4-cylinder engine with auto comes in at 234 grammes/kilometre (combined
cycle).
Equipment
Satellite Navigation with Bluetooth® are standard on the Grand Vitara Sport, as are 17" alloy road wheels and cruise
control. So, too, is fabric trim, air conditioning and USB/AUX jack.
Variants
Besides the well known wagon, a short wheelbase 3-door Grand Vitara is on offer. Several trim levels are available
with the wagon and a diesel engine is also on offer.
Dimensions
Length: 4,500 mm
Width: 1,810 mm
Height: 1,695 mm
Wheelbase: 2,640 mm
Weight: 1,620 kg
Boot capacity: 398 litres (to lower window) back seat up; 758 litres (to lower window) back seat down.
Towing
Suzuki Grand Vitara 4-door 4x4 has a 1,700kg "braked" towing capacity when equipped with appropriate towing equipment.
Without brakes, the Grand Vitara can tow 750kg (again, subject to being appropriately equipped).
After Sales
A 3 year or 100,000 km warranty (whichever comes first) is standard with the Grand Vitara. The warranty is
transferable if the car is sold. Capped Price servicing is part of the deal with Suzuki. Naturally, the warranty and
capped price servicing are subject to conditions.
Conclusion
The outstanding decency of Suzuki's pricing policy means the Grand Vitara is very good value. The dedication to
engineering excellence by Suzuki is admirable. The right size and adequate performance make the Grand Vitara an ideal
"fit" for many people. All this means we should never ever forget the Suzuki Grand Vitara!
NOTE: * Manufacturer's List Price (MLP) excludes dealer delivery
fees and the numerous statutory charges (commonly known as on-road costs). Additionally, please note that all prices,
fees and charges are subject to change without notice, as are the specifications.
E&OE
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