Going & Stopping
For a V-6 with paltry mileage, the Grand Vitara's acceleration is merely adequate. Our friends at MotorWeek clocked a comparably equipped 4WD Grand Vitara automatic's 0-60 mph time at 9.0 seconds. Rear-wheel drive or a manual transmission (or both) would make for quicker sprints. Though a four-cylinder has been rumored for the 2009 model year, pokier acceleration is practically guaranteed. A stronger V-6 has also been rumored, but we can't guess how that would affect mileage; it could well improve despite a power increase.
The antilock brakes have front discs and rear drums. Another disappointment, drum rear brakes are technically inferior and on their way out, though the Escape is another holdout. It's the result that counts more than the formula, though, and unfortunately MotorWeek cites a 60-0 mph stopping distance of 135 feet, which is a bit long.
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Plain (Petite) Jane
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If the Starter Does Not Operate
1) Try turning the ignition switch to the
“START” position with the headlights
turned on to determine the battery condition.
If the headlights go excessively
dim or go off, it usually means th ...
Spare Tire Nut Lock (if equipped)
Spare Tire Nut Lock (if equipped)
A nut lock is used for the spare tire. To
unlock the spare tire nut, insert the ignition
key into the lock as far as the key will go
and remove the lock with th ...