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.
See also:
The Inside
There are aspects of the interior that I like, including the overall design.
The materials in my test Grand Vitara XSport were pretty good quality, which
couldn't be said of Suzukis just five year ...
Reassuring safety
The Suzuki SX4 inspires confidence with its extensive array of safety
features. Active safety elements include ABS with electronic brake-force
distribution (EBD), standard on all models together w ...
Safety
An electronic stability system is optional on the sedan and standard on the
Crossover. Standard features include:
Four-wheel-disc antilock brakes Side-impact airbags for front and rear seats
Sid ...