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.
Fuel Recommendation
Your vehicle requires regular unleaded
gasoline with a minimum rating of 87 pump
octane ((R + M)/2 method). In some areas,
the only fuels that are available are oxygenated
fuels.
Oxygenated f ...
Ride & Handling
Even with its 18-inch sport wheels and low-profile tires, my Kizashi rode
quite comfortably. I felt more pavement disruptions when I had three passengers
on board. In some cars it's the opposite. ...
“ESP OFF” Switch (if equipped)
“ESP OFF” Switch (if equipped)
ESP® is a registered trademark of
DaimlerChrysler AG.
The “ESP OFF” switch is located on the
center console. You can turn the ESP®
systems (other than A ...