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:
Electronic Stability Program (ESP®) (if equipped)
ESP® is a registered trademark of
DaimlerChrysler AG.
The Electronic Stability Program (ESP®)
helps to control the vehicle during cornering
if the vehicle is understeering or oversteering.
It a ...
Folding Seats
Folding Rear Seats
To fold the rear seats forward:
1) Remove the luggage compartment
cover.
2) Stow the seat belt buckles of the center
and left seating position into the pocket
of the seat cu ...
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 ...