SUZUKI GRAND VITARA 4X4 FULL REVIEW

Suzuki Grand Vitara 4x4 full 9 point review

Performance

2 out of 5 stars

Although the 1.6 is disappointingly sluggish, the 2.4 is fairly gutsy, and the best of the lot for pulling power is the 1.9 diesel, with useful mid-range grunt. Sadly, the manual gearbox is heavy and clunky; however, an automatic 'box is optional with the 2.4 petrol. Every model has permanent four-wheel-drive, but diesel and 2.4-litre models also have selectable low gear ratios to aid off-road progress.
Ride & Handling

2 out of 5 stars

The firm suspension limits body movement, so the Vitara remains composed through corners. Good grip and well weighted steering also help. The downside is an unforgiving ride, which never settles. It’s even choppier in the three-door car.
Refinement

2 out of 5 stars

This is one of the Grand Vitara’s weak points. All but the 2.4 engine are noisy, particularly at speed, although the 1.6 is the worst offender and the diesel isn’t too bad. Road noise is also a problem, and there’s an irritating amount of wind noise on the motorway.

Buying & Owning

2 out of 5 stars

The Grand Vitara is cheaper to buy than its Nissan and Honda rivals, but it doesn't hold its value as well. Running costs are on the high side, too - it's expensive to service and attracts comparatively high insurance ratings, while even the diesel isn't particularly frugal.
Quality & Reliability

3 out of 5 stars

Suzuki has raised its game when it comes to interior quality. The cabin is solidly built and stylish, and the materials all look like they’ll stand up to hard use. The previous model’s reliability was no better than average and came bottom of its class in a previous JD Power Customer Satisfaction survey, so Suzuki will be looking for improvements in this area.
Safety & Security

3 out of 5 stars

Front, side and curtain airbags are fitted in all models, and stability control is also standard. The diesel and 2.4-litre petrol models now have rear disc brakes (which the earlier models didn't), and efforts have been made to improve pedestrian protection at the front of the car.

Behind The Wheel

3 out of 5 stars

The dash is sensibly arranged and has big, bold switches, while visibility is excellent. All models get driver's seat height adjustment, however the steering wheel only adjusts up and down - not in and out. Nevertheless most drivers should be able to find a comfortable seating position.
Space & Practicality

3 out of 5 stars

The five-door is the most practical and provides plenty of leg- and headroom in both the front and back seats, and five adults will fit comfortably thanks to the low central tunnel. The boot is a useful size, too, but it has a side-hinged door, which can make it tricky to load up if someone parks behind you or if you're towing. The rear seats tumble forward should you need extra load space, but they stack behind the front seats instead of laying flat, so the space isn't especially long.
Equipment

4 out of 5 stars

All models come with alloy wheels, front electric windows, climate control, remote central locking and a CD player with steering wheel-mounted controls. SZ4 trim adds rear privacy glass, a CD changer and upgraded stereo, larger alloy wheels and front foglamps.