2009 Suzuki Grand Vitara review
Snow buried it in the driveway, but the Suzuki Grand Vitara shook off the thick white blanket and securely pulled onto the road.
Whether snowy or clear, Grand Vitara was in command.
For 2009, Grand Vitara offers a 4-cylinder, a 2.4-liter, 166-h.p. version rated at 19/26 in the base model; a 3.2-liter, 230-h.p. V-6 rated at 17/22 with 2WD, 17/23 with 4WD has replaced the 2.7-liter, 185-h.p. V-6.
We tested the 4WD version with the noticeably more spirited V-6.
Above average energy and exceptional control in snow.
But on dry, uneven roads, the suspension tends to jiggle. And, if traveling in steerage, leave your knees at home.
Also prepare for the headrest torture - they dig into your back if left down - and wheel well encroachment into the narrow doorways.
The cargo hold will handle groceries or luggage for a week, but the pull shade to hide contents is flimsy. And the door with spare tire attached swings open rather than lifting up, which makes it hard to use if someone parks too close behind.
Base price: $26,799 with stability control standard.
Grand Vitara competes against the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Escape and Jeep Wrangler, Goliaths that are tough to slay.
See also:
Luggage Compartment Light (SX4)
Luggage Compartment Light (SX4)
When you open the tailgate with the luggage
compartment light switch in the “ON”
position (1), the light comes on and
remains on as long as you keep the tailg ...
Glove Box
Glove Box
To open the glove box, pull the latch lever.
To close it, push the lid until it latches
securely.
WARNING:
Never drive with the glove box lid
open. It could cause injury if an a ...
Break-In
CAUTION:
The future performance and reliability
of the engine depends on the care
and restraint exercised during its
early life. It is especially important to
observe the following precautions
d ...