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:
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Interior
Only those opting for four-wheel drive will get all of the Equator's interior
frills. The RMZ-4 package includes chrome trim on the instrument panel, more
adjustments in the driver's seat and upgr ...
Bold and refined interior
The "X-over" design continues inside the vehicle, with curving wraparound
forms and trim materials and fabrics that have high visual and tactile quality.
Circular motifs and a flowing ce ...