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:
Engine Oil and Filter
Specified Oil
(1) Preferred
Use engine oil with the American Petroleum
Institute Certified For Gasoline
Engines “Starburst” symbol.
Select the appropriate oil viscosity according
to the ab ...
Interior
Suzuki has taken advantage of its expertise in the compact car segment to
efficiently execute larger — yet still tidy — proportions that afford comfort
and practicality without the wasted spac ...
Daily Inspection Checklist
Before Driving
1) Make sure that windows, mirrors, lights
and reflectors are clean and unobstructed.
2) Visually check the tires for the following
points:
– the depth of the tread groove.
– ...