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.
Leak Detection Pump
NOTE:
Your vehicle has a pump to regularly check
the vehicle’s evaporative emission control
system for leaks. This check is performed
approximately five hours after the engine is
turned off. Du ...
Towing Your Vehicle (recreational towing)
Your vehicle may be towed behind another
vehicle (such as a motorhome), provided
you use the proper towing method specified
for your vehicle. The towing method
you must use depends on the specific ...
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 conven ...