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.
Automatic Transaxle Fluid
Specified Fluid
Use an automatic transaxle fluid equivalent
to DEXRON®-III.
Fluid Level Check
CAUTION:
Driving with too much or too little
fluid can damage the transaxle.
You must check the fl ...
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 ...
Fuel Gauge
Fuel Gauge
This gauge gives an approximate indication
of the amount of fuel in the fuel tank.
“F” stands for full and “E” stands for empty.
If the indicator gets off the graduation of
...