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.
The Inside
There are aspects of the interior that I like, including the overall design.
The materials in my test Grand Vitara XSport were pretty good quality, which
couldn't be said of Suzukis just five year ...
Fuel Gauge
Fuel Gauge
When the ignition switch is in the “ON”
position, this gauge gives an approximate
indication of the amount of fuel in the fuel
tank. “F” stands for full and “E” stands for ...
If the Engine Overheats
The engine could overheat temporarily
under severe driving conditions. If the High
Engine Coolant Temperature Warning
Light in the instrument cluster glows red
during driving:
1) Turn off the air ...