Ride & Handling
The Grand Vitara has independent front and rear suspensions, which remains the exception among offroad vehicles, but I didn't find the ride particularly carlike. The firmness is more like a conventional truck's, and both I and some of my colleagues rate it on the low end of compact-SUV comfort. My test car had the standard 16-inch wheels and thus taller tire sidewalls, so it's possible the optional 17-inch wheels and lower-series tires (standard on the Luxury trim level) would be firmer still.
In terms of handling, the Grand Vitara feels reasonably grounded for an off-roader, but it's not sporty. The suspension allows for some sideways hop when cornering on rough pavement. At 36 feet, the turning diameter is decent, especially compared to the Honda CR-V, which needs almost 2 feet more, even with front-wheel drive. That said, the Grand Vitara's driveline noticeably binds when you turn with the steering wheel turned all the way. Not to say it's damaging itself, but it doesn't feel right.
See also:
Using the Transfer Switch (if equipped)
Using the Transfer Switch (if equipped)
Your vehicle is equipped with a four-mode
full-time 4x4 system. You can use the
transfer switch to select any of the four
modes: N, 4H, 4H LOCK, 4L LOCK.
...
Overview
Built at Nissan's manufacturing facility in Smyrna, Tenn., the Suzuki Equator
features a fuel efficient 2.5-liter DOHC inline four with 152 horsepower and 171
lb.-ft. of torque or an optional 4.0- ...
Exterior
The hood, front fenders, grille, bumpers and tailgate are exclusive to
Suzuki. The bed comes with a factory spray-on bedliner and an adjustable
tie-down system. The prominent Suzuki badge on the h ...