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.
Kizashi in the Market
For what it is, the Kizashi is priced reasonably well, though Suzuki might be
wise to lower the price as an incentive for buyers. Both the compact and midsize
classes are crowded and include some ...
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 ...
Powertrain
Built at Suzuki's brand-new manufacturing facility in Sagara, Japan, the 2010
Kizashi is equipped with a standard 2.4-liter DOHC inline four-cylinder engine
offering a more potent standard engine ...