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:

Highway Driving
When driving at highway speeds, pay attention to the following: • Stopping distance progressively increases with vehicle speed. Apply the brakes far enough ahead of the stopping point to allow ...

Ride & Handling
It's a good thing that the SX4 handles better than it looks. It's as nimble as the pros in this class — we're talking the likes of a Lancer, Mazda3 or Focus. The steering wheel requires a bit mo ...

Gearshift Lever
Manual transmission 5-speed automatic transmission Your vehicle is equipped with either a manual transmission or automatic transmission. The gearshift lever for each transmission type is show ...

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