The first generation of the Grand Vitara had several shortcomings that kept it from enjoying much success in the SUV-savvy States. Thankfully, Suzuki made all the right moves to improve the Grand Vitara by adding performance, safety and comfort that didn't exist in the previous model.
The 2007 Grand Vitara was an all-new model from the ground up last year. The Grand Vitara can be equipped with the optional Premium, XSport and Luxury Packages. Priced from $19,600 to $24,994, Grand Vitaras are equipped with outstanding safety features that enhance the driving experience while protecting passengers. Standards such as electronic stability control, traction control, anti-lock brakes with electronic brake-force are new. Models include six airbags with dual front- and side-impact airbags as well as front and rear side-curtain airbags.
The 2007 Grand Vitara is larger than the previous model. With a wheelbase six inches longer and an increase in overall vehicle length of about 12 inches, there is greater cargo space and cabin room.
I noticed the sedan-like accessibility when opening both the driver's door and the second-row door. The design engineering on the new Grand Vitara achieved the blended characteristics of car-like and sport utility functions. The 4WD Suzuki has the expected minimum ground clearance of 7.9 inches for off-roading and the smooth ride qualities of a sedan.
The Grand Vitara features a unibody construction that is enhanced with a built-in ladder frame. Former models were built on stiff truck-like platforms that were neither comfortable nor accommodating for road manners. Rated to tow up to 3,000 pounds, the Grand Vitara is capable of light-duty towing.
Suzuki increased the powerplant performance with a new V-6. The 24-valve, 2.7-liter V-6 delivers 185 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 184 lbs.-ft. of torque at 4,500 rpm. Fuel economy ratings on the 2006 model are 19 city and 23 highway.
The Grand Vitara is available as a rear-wheel drive mated to either a manual or automatic transmission, and four-wheel drive mated to manual or automatic transmissions. The four-wheel drive models are new for Suzuki and buyers who opt for the system can select from a full-time 4WD vehicle or a four-mode 4WD system.
My tester featured the Luxury Package with the advanced four-wheel drive system. The dial for switching into 4-wheel Low for low-speed traction was easily accessible on the center dash. The Luxury Package took the price up a notch at $24,399, but the amenities in this upgrade proved to be a great value. Items such as were woodgrain trim, leather seating, tilt/slide power sunroof, 17-inch alloy wheels, Homelink and privacy glass were all included.
One of the first things I noted in the roomy interior was the sound system. Grand Vitaras come with an AM/FM/CD/MP3/WMA unit and are XM Satellite-ready. The real value for the Grand Vitara is that it offers a laundry list of standard features, such as power mirrors, a digital clock with outside temperature and fuel consumption indicators, and automatic air conditioning.
The 2007 Grand Vitara is stylish, well-equipped, adequately powered and it provides a wonderful value in the small-SUV class.
