Even though the spare tire isn't strapped to the undercarriage, the departure angle isn't great: 26 degrees. The offroad-capable Jeep Patriot's measures 32 degrees, and even the Escape — which makes no claim of offroad chops — has a 28 degree departure angle. The Grand Vitara's approach and breakover angles are similarly competitive but not exceptional.
It doesn't help that the Grand Vitara's ground clearance is listed as 7.4 inches. A true offroader has to provide better clearance. This is roughly what you get in the CR-V and RAV4; the Escape rides 8.4 inches off the ground and the Patriot starts at 8 inches and grows to 9 inches of clearance with the Freedom Drive II package.
The Grand Vitara's ostensible advantage over the others — excepting rock-crawling stalwarts like the Wrangler and Liberty — is its dual-range transfer case (the Patriot's atypical lowest CVT gear ratio is an effective alternative, but it's not a true separate low gear). The optional driveline is technically a permanent four-wheel-drive system, which means it's always activated and can't be switched to a rear-drive mode, even though it's based on rear-wheel drive. In normal driving, traction is aided by a standard electronic stability system and its four-wheel traction control. A dashboard knob offers 4H (4WD high) and 4H Lock, which locks the center differential. The low range is labeled 4L Lock. There's also an N (neutral) setting that lets you tow the Grand Vitara four-wheels-down behind, say, a motorhome.
Engine Oil and Filter
Specified Oil
(1) Preferred
Use engine oil with the American Petroleum
Institute Certified For Gasoline
Engines “Starburst” symbol.
Select the appropriate oil viscosity according
to the ab ...
2WD/i-AWD (intelligent All Wheel Drive) Switch (if equipped)
2WD/i-AWD (intelligent All Wheel Drive) Switch (if equipped)
The 2WD/i-AWD switch is located on the
center console.
For details on how to use the 2WD/i-AWD
switch, refer to “Using the 2WD/i-AW ...
Performance and Functionality
The new Suzuki-developed 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine produces 166
horsepower and 162 lb.-ft. of peak torque, delivering EPA fuel economy estimates
of up to 19 mpg/city and 26 mpg/highway. Avail ...