2006 Suzuki Grand Vitara
03/29/2006
Shahed Hussain
Suzuki has struggled for years to maintain its toehold in the US market. Ironically, this manufacturer of superb motorcycles is better known for its SUVs in the US automotive market. Some may recall the diminutive Samurai from the 1980s. Since then, Suzuki expanded its SUV lineup with the SX4 at the bottom, and the XL7 at the top. The Grand Vitara fits in the middle, larger and more luxurious than the basic SX4, yet more affordable and smaller than the XL7.
The new Grand Vitara is intended to compete against the compact SUV segment leaders such as the Ford Escape, Honda CR-V, and Toyota RAV4. As part of the redesign, Suzuki widened and lengthened the Grand Vitara compared to its rather spartan predecessor. With its lean, athletic styling, the new Grand Vitara is far removed from its frumpy, awkward predecessor. Suzuki designed the Grand Vitara on a completely new unibody chassis with an all-independent suspension for much improved on-road ride and handling.
Suzuki also upgraded the Grand Vitara's interior, which features attractive materials and excellent panel fits. The center console has clearly marked knobs and buttons for the climate control and audio system. For some reason, Suzuki chose rectangular center vents, but the outboard vents are circular. Glossy plastic wood trim is on the console, shift knob, and the door armrest. Although it looks reasonably realistic, no one will mistake it for actual wood. Optional perforated heated leather seats coddle the driver and front passenger, although the flat seat bolsters do not offer much lateral support. Rear seats can accommodate up to three passengers, but two adults are more realistic. Legroom for rear passengers is quite generous, but despite the tall roofline, the standard sunroof restricts headroom for both front and rear passengers. To haul cargo, the rear seats fold down, or lie vertically flush with the front seats to reveal a flat load floor.
For some reason, Suzuki chose a gated shifter for the 5-speed automatic, which requires more effort than necessary to change gears. The driver has to look down at the console to shift the transmission out of Park. Frankly, Suzuki should adopt the non-gated shift mechanism favored by most other manufacturers, simply because it is easier to shift and less clunky. Next to the shift lever bezel are handy dual 12V outlets, so a cell phone can charge while the radar detector keeps on the lookout for speed traps.
Suzuki offers an optional keyless entry and engine start system (Smartpass(TM)). As long as the driver has the key fob, the Grand Vitara does not require the key to be in the ignition. Suzuki cleverly integrated the key into the fob. The key slides into a slot in the back of the fob, but is easily removable if required. However, to start the Grand Vitara, the driver still needs to twist the plastic insert that fits over the ignition key cylinder. It is difficult to see the value of the Smartpass(TM) option, which seems to be an unnecessary gimmick.
Sit in the driver's seat and one faces three deep-set pods, which house the tachometer, 130-MPH speedometer, and fuel and temperature gauges. Drivers will appreciate the bright electroluminescent gauges, easy to read in daytime or nighttime. A dash-mounted trip computer shows instantaneous fuel economy and exterior temperature. We saw a maximum steady-state mileage of 25 MPG during our test, which actually exceeded the EPA highway estimate by one MPG. The standard 6-CD changer audio system has mp3/WMA playback capability, and optional XM satellite radio. Sound quality is above average, but low frequency response will not satisfy bass lovers.
A fat 3-spoke steering wheel has integrated cruise and audio controls. Steering feel is surprisingly good, as the tires communicate road textures accurately. Although the 225/65R-17 Yokohama Geolandars are truck tires, they are clearly designed for a quiet ride. Minor tread squirm is noticeable, but not objectionable. The full-time 4WD system ensures minimal understeer, so the Grand Vitara stays corners flat, while the steering remains responsive. On the highway, the Suzuki tracks accurately at speeds up to 90 MPH, with little effect from crosswinds or road imperfections. Suspension tuning is firm enough to inspire confidence, but biased toward ride comfort. We had an opportunity to drive in light snow and slush, which the 4WD system handled with ease. Overall handling is best described as deliberate. This SUV never feels nimble or sporty like the Mitsubishi Outlander or Mazda Tribute. A look at the curb weight specification reveals why. At almost 3,700 lbs. for the 4WD automatic models, the Grand Vitara is no lightweight, especially for a compact SUV.
The standard 185-bhp 2.7L V-6 & 5-speed automatic send power to a full-time 4WD system. This V-6 is not particularly smooth, and lacks low RPM torque. At full throttle, its buzzes and induction noise are clearly audible in the cabin. Lay off the throttle, the racket subsides, and the V-6 becomes unobtrusive. Although the automatic transmission shifts unobtrusively at part throttle, it becomes quite sluggish and unresponsive when asked to kickdown a couple of gears for passing maneuvers. Lightly loaded, the Grand Vitara seems rather sprightly above 4,000 RPM, but with a full passenger load, it struggles to get up to speed. Suzuki specifies a 3,000 lbs. trailer tow capability, but when loaded with passengers and cargo, we doubt that owners will be satisfied with the Grand Vitara's towing performance.
Surprisingly, Suzuki used a disc/drum setup to handle braking duties, although many competitors offer disc brakes all around. The resultant spongy pedal feel, combined with an overweight chassis do not inspire much confidence, although the brakes seem perfectly adequate for normal street use. In its defense, Suzuki provides the Grand Vitara with a complete set of safety features including ABS, EBD (Electronic Brake Force Distribution), ESP (Electronic Stability Program), and front and rear side-curtain airbags.
Although Suzuki equips the Grand Vitara with a flexible 4WD system, ground clearance is inadequate for any serious off-road adventures. The primary culprit is the exhaust pipe, which hangs below the rear suspension subframe. Any rock impacts risk exhaust pipe blockage, leading to an engine stall. Of course, few SUV buyers take their vehicles beyond the occasional dirt road, so the Grand Vitara's minimal ground clearance should not be a real problem.
Suzuki clearly spent much time and effort with the thoroughly revamped Grand Vitara, which is improved by nearly every measurable criterion. However, competition from the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Ford Escape, as well the Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage will make life very difficult for the Grand Vitara. In its favor, Suzuki priced the Grand Vitara competitively in the market, with comprehensive standard equipment for each model. For some, the clean styling, compact exterior dimensions, and standard V-6 may sway them towards the Grand Vitara. Others in search of sport along with utility in their SUV should look elsewhere.
