Suzuki Grand Vitara 2.4 4WD (A) Review
30 Mar 2010|32,760 views
Suzuki has had a long illustrious history with making affordable and capable off-road vehicles. Take the Jimny for example. It’s been around since 1966 and is still around in its latest JB23 guise with plenty aggressively hopped up examples plying our roads today.
The Grand Vitara, unlike its sibling, is meant to be a lot less hardcore. It retains a respectable off-road capability but also manages to be docile enough for daily use. Like ferrying the kids and going to the shops with it.
While the Vitara isn’t supposed to be a full-fledged off-roader, it does possess a full time multi-mode 4WD capability. The multi-mode 4WD comes in three modes. 4WD High, is basically the normal mode meant for most driving conditions. 4WD High-Lock, allows the diffs to send equal power to all four wheels for slippery conditions or going up muddy inclines. For the most extreme conditions however, the 4WD Low-Lock is employed. Providing more torque to all four wheels by engaging the lower gears while at the same time locking the centre and rear diffs.
Exterior
The latest Vitara manages to give female buyers little reason to shy away from this comfortable 5-seater SUV. The car is able to maintain a reasonable amount of masculinity without being overly macho.
The Grand Vitara, unlike its sibling, is meant to be a lot less hardcore. It retains a respectable off-road capability but also manages to be docile enough for daily use. Like ferrying the kids and going to the shops with it.
While the Vitara isn’t supposed to be a full-fledged off-roader, it does possess a full time multi-mode 4WD capability. The multi-mode 4WD comes in three modes. 4WD High, is basically the normal mode meant for most driving conditions. 4WD High-Lock, allows the diffs to send equal power to all four wheels for slippery conditions or going up muddy inclines. For the most extreme conditions however, the 4WD Low-Lock is employed. Providing more torque to all four wheels by engaging the lower gears while at the same time locking the centre and rear diffs.
Exterior
The latest Vitara manages to give female buyers little reason to shy away from this comfortable 5-seater SUV. The car is able to maintain a reasonable amount of masculinity without being overly macho.
 |
Compared to its predecessor, the new Vitara cuts a cleaner expression from its front fascia. A large black grille that extends to the lower bumper dominates with a prominent Suzuki insignia placed proudly in the centre. On both these extremes are placed a pair of large light clusters that are home to the much appreciated HID lamps. Lower down, the bumper is also complimented with a pair of fog lights.
The flared wheel arches hide 18 inch alloys that are standard on the 2.4-litre variant. Though enthusiasts will be happy to know that despite the 18s, there’s still plenty of space to fit larger (and more serious) rims if preferred.
Round the back, a pair of large taillights are mounted on either side of the side opening tailgate with the spare wheel mounted directly on the tailgate itself. Completing a serious off-road look.
 |
The design of the Vitara though is still that of a serious off-roader lavished with few curves while dominated by angular lines all around.
Interior
Stepping into the interior of a Vitara is a bit of an event in itself. Vertically challenged drivers might require a running start to get into the driver’s seat. Once in, you’re immediately rewarded with a commanding view that makes the hassle of climbing in well worth it. I’m sure the towering view appeals to most female drivers who usually have trouble peering over the bonnet.
The driving seat is a comfortable place to be especially for long journeys with the seat supporting you in the right places. Though personally I felt the driving position could’ve been made better if a reach and rake steering were made available. Even in my optimum position, I still found the wheel further than I would’ve liked.
That aside, the ergonomics of the seats were excellent with the buttons on the centre console within easy reach of the driver. The addition of an electric sun roof in the front keeps everything bright and airy for both front occupants.
On the centre console you find the well laid out buttons for the factory fitted sound system. While simple, the sound produced was better than most factory fitted sound systems. A 6 CD changer keeps things interesting with their ability to playback MP3 CDs. However, it is slightly disappointing that there wasn’t an AUX-in for MP3 players. Audio controls are also reproduced on the steering wheel for safety and ease of use.
Interior
Stepping into the interior of a Vitara is a bit of an event in itself. Vertically challenged drivers might require a running start to get into the driver’s seat. Once in, you’re immediately rewarded with a commanding view that makes the hassle of climbing in well worth it. I’m sure the towering view appeals to most female drivers who usually have trouble peering over the bonnet.
The driving seat is a comfortable place to be especially for long journeys with the seat supporting you in the right places. Though personally I felt the driving position could’ve been made better if a reach and rake steering were made available. Even in my optimum position, I still found the wheel further than I would’ve liked.
That aside, the ergonomics of the seats were excellent with the buttons on the centre console within easy reach of the driver. The addition of an electric sun roof in the front keeps everything bright and airy for both front occupants.
On the centre console you find the well laid out buttons for the factory fitted sound system. While simple, the sound produced was better than most factory fitted sound systems. A 6 CD changer keeps things interesting with their ability to playback MP3 CDs. However, it is slightly disappointing that there wasn’t an AUX-in for MP3 players. Audio controls are also reproduced on the steering wheel for safety and ease of use.
Lower down you find the dials for the interior climate control. Buttons are large and tactile in feel. Just below the aircon dials, you find the 4WD transmission dial that lets you switch between the different drive modes. To the left of it, an Electronic Stability Control on/off button is available for the brave.
Having owned a Suzuki before, I’ve always liked their relatively high quality and well laid out interior. It might not give the solid ‘thump’ that European cars offer but at least it uses better quality plastics than some upmarket cars I’ve been in.
In the rear, the seats provide ample leg and head space as a SUV should. Though the leg space does get a little cramped for tall passengers sitting behind a tall driver.
Bootspace is abundant like in most SUVs with a tailgate that opens side ways to aid in loading. Boot capacity stands at 398 litres in a normal 5 seat configuration. This space can be expanded to nearly double (758 litres) with the seats knocked down.
The Drive
Off-road, the Vitara doesn’t disappoint. The Vitara climbed up steep slopes without problems despite the slippery conditions. Damping on gravel and dirt tracks do feel a little firm though this was a good thing. Unlike most soft roaders, the Vitara’s firmer setup means that when entering and exiting gulleys, the front or rear won’t dip so much that it would bottom out and damage the front or rear bumpers.
Having owned a Suzuki before, I’ve always liked their relatively high quality and well laid out interior. It might not give the solid ‘thump’ that European cars offer but at least it uses better quality plastics than some upmarket cars I’ve been in.
In the rear, the seats provide ample leg and head space as a SUV should. Though the leg space does get a little cramped for tall passengers sitting behind a tall driver.
Bootspace is abundant like in most SUVs with a tailgate that opens side ways to aid in loading. Boot capacity stands at 398 litres in a normal 5 seat configuration. This space can be expanded to nearly double (758 litres) with the seats knocked down.
The Drive
Off-road, the Vitara doesn’t disappoint. The Vitara climbed up steep slopes without problems despite the slippery conditions. Damping on gravel and dirt tracks do feel a little firm though this was a good thing. Unlike most soft roaders, the Vitara’s firmer setup means that when entering and exiting gulleys, the front or rear won’t dip so much that it would bottom out and damage the front or rear bumpers.
 |
On-road, the Vitara is an engaging drive with the steering giving ample feedback from its front wheels without the power steering diluting too much of the driving experience. Damping might’ve felt firm off-road but it was hardly noticeable when driving along baby smooth tarmac. In fact, most wouldn’t know the difference unless told about the firmer suspension on the Vitara compared to soft-roaders.
Although it does get a little ‘chatty’ in the lower gears under hard acceleration, the engine is more than capable enough with its 166bhp directing power through the mechanical 4WD.
There is one complaint though. More thought should’ve been given to the placement of the cruise control buttons. While making turns, the cruise control kept getting activated due to the buttons being placed on the steering wheel itself.
Although it does get a little ‘chatty’ in the lower gears under hard acceleration, the engine is more than capable enough with its 166bhp directing power through the mechanical 4WD.
There is one complaint though. More thought should’ve been given to the placement of the cruise control buttons. While making turns, the cruise control kept getting activated due to the buttons being placed on the steering wheel itself.
Conclusion
The Vitara is a good choice for family men who have a streak of adventurism in their bloodstream. The off-road capabilities of this SUV are a good enough without being impractical. The multi-mode 4WD system will get you out of most ruts though for those times it doesn’t, one shouldn’t go off-roading alone anyway.
The second generation Grand Vitara is definitely an improvement over the first. Not only in the looks department but also in its trick 4WD differential.
If you’re looking for a compromise between a family SUV and an off-road vehicle, the Suzuki Grand Vitara 2.4 will be worth a test drive.
The Vitara is a good choice for family men who have a streak of adventurism in their bloodstream. The off-road capabilities of this SUV are a good enough without being impractical. The multi-mode 4WD system will get you out of most ruts though for those times it doesn’t, one shouldn’t go off-roading alone anyway.
The second generation Grand Vitara is definitely an improvement over the first. Not only in the looks department but also in its trick 4WD differential.
If you’re looking for a compromise between a family SUV and an off-road vehicle, the Suzuki Grand Vitara 2.4 will be worth a test drive.
Suzuki has had a long illustrious history with making affordable and capable off-road vehicles. Take the Jimny for example. It’s been around since 1966 and is still around in its latest JB23 guise with plenty aggressively hopped up examples plying our roads today.
The Grand Vitara, unlike its sibling, is meant to be a lot less hardcore. It retains a respectable off-road capability but also manages to be docile enough for daily use. Like ferrying the kids and going to the shops with it.
While the Vitara isn’t supposed to be a full-fledged off-roader, it does possess a full time multi-mode 4WD capability. The multi-mode 4WD comes in three modes. 4WD High, is basically the normal mode meant for most driving conditions. 4WD High-Lock, allows the diffs to send equal power to all four wheels for slippery conditions or going up muddy inclines. For the most extreme conditions however, the 4WD Low-Lock is employed. Providing more torque to all four wheels by engaging the lower gears while at the same time locking the centre and rear diffs.
Exterior
The latest Vitara manages to give female buyers little reason to shy away from this comfortable 5-seater SUV. The car is able to maintain a reasonable amount of masculinity without being overly macho.
The Grand Vitara, unlike its sibling, is meant to be a lot less hardcore. It retains a respectable off-road capability but also manages to be docile enough for daily use. Like ferrying the kids and going to the shops with it.
While the Vitara isn’t supposed to be a full-fledged off-roader, it does possess a full time multi-mode 4WD capability. The multi-mode 4WD comes in three modes. 4WD High, is basically the normal mode meant for most driving conditions. 4WD High-Lock, allows the diffs to send equal power to all four wheels for slippery conditions or going up muddy inclines. For the most extreme conditions however, the 4WD Low-Lock is employed. Providing more torque to all four wheels by engaging the lower gears while at the same time locking the centre and rear diffs.
Exterior
The latest Vitara manages to give female buyers little reason to shy away from this comfortable 5-seater SUV. The car is able to maintain a reasonable amount of masculinity without being overly macho.
|
Compared to its predecessor, the new Vitara cuts a cleaner expression from its front fascia. A large black grille that extends to the lower bumper dominates with a prominent Suzuki insignia placed proudly in the centre. On both these extremes are placed a pair of large light clusters that are home to the much appreciated HID lamps. Lower down, the bumper is also complimented with a pair of fog lights.
The flared wheel arches hide 18 inch alloys that are standard on the 2.4-litre variant. Though enthusiasts will be happy to know that despite the 18s, there’s still plenty of space to fit larger (and more serious) rims if preferred.
Round the back, a pair of large taillights are mounted on either side of the side opening tailgate with the spare wheel mounted directly on the tailgate itself. Completing a serious off-road look.
|
The design of the Vitara though is still that of a serious off-roader lavished with few curves while dominated by angular lines all around.
Interior
Stepping into the interior of a Vitara is a bit of an event in itself. Vertically challenged drivers might require a running start to get into the driver’s seat. Once in, you’re immediately rewarded with a commanding view that makes the hassle of climbing in well worth it. I’m sure the towering view appeals to most female drivers who usually have trouble peering over the bonnet.
The driving seat is a comfortable place to be especially for long journeys with the seat supporting you in the right places. Though personally I felt the driving position could’ve been made better if a reach and rake steering were made available. Even in my optimum position, I still found the wheel further than I would’ve liked.
That aside, the ergonomics of the seats were excellent with the buttons on the centre console within easy reach of the driver. The addition of an electric sun roof in the front keeps everything bright and airy for both front occupants.
On the centre console you find the well laid out buttons for the factory fitted sound system. While simple, the sound produced was better than most factory fitted sound systems. A 6 CD changer keeps things interesting with their ability to playback MP3 CDs. However, it is slightly disappointing that there wasn’t an AUX-in for MP3 players. Audio controls are also reproduced on the steering wheel for safety and ease of use.
Interior
Stepping into the interior of a Vitara is a bit of an event in itself. Vertically challenged drivers might require a running start to get into the driver’s seat. Once in, you’re immediately rewarded with a commanding view that makes the hassle of climbing in well worth it. I’m sure the towering view appeals to most female drivers who usually have trouble peering over the bonnet.
The driving seat is a comfortable place to be especially for long journeys with the seat supporting you in the right places. Though personally I felt the driving position could’ve been made better if a reach and rake steering were made available. Even in my optimum position, I still found the wheel further than I would’ve liked.
That aside, the ergonomics of the seats were excellent with the buttons on the centre console within easy reach of the driver. The addition of an electric sun roof in the front keeps everything bright and airy for both front occupants.
On the centre console you find the well laid out buttons for the factory fitted sound system. While simple, the sound produced was better than most factory fitted sound systems. A 6 CD changer keeps things interesting with their ability to playback MP3 CDs. However, it is slightly disappointing that there wasn’t an AUX-in for MP3 players. Audio controls are also reproduced on the steering wheel for safety and ease of use.
Lower down you find the dials for the interior climate control. Buttons are large and tactile in feel. Just below the aircon dials, you find the 4WD transmission dial that lets you switch between the different drive modes. To the left of it, an Electronic Stability Control on/off button is available for the brave.
Having owned a Suzuki before, I’ve always liked their relatively high quality and well laid out interior. It might not give the solid ‘thump’ that European cars offer but at least it uses better quality plastics than some upmarket cars I’ve been in.
In the rear, the seats provide ample leg and head space as a SUV should. Though the leg space does get a little cramped for tall passengers sitting behind a tall driver.
Bootspace is abundant like in most SUVs with a tailgate that opens side ways to aid in loading. Boot capacity stands at 398 litres in a normal 5 seat configuration. This space can be expanded to nearly double (758 litres) with the seats knocked down.
The Drive
Off-road, the Vitara doesn’t disappoint. The Vitara climbed up steep slopes without problems despite the slippery conditions. Damping on gravel and dirt tracks do feel a little firm though this was a good thing. Unlike most soft roaders, the Vitara’s firmer setup means that when entering and exiting gulleys, the front or rear won’t dip so much that it would bottom out and damage the front or rear bumpers.
Having owned a Suzuki before, I’ve always liked their relatively high quality and well laid out interior. It might not give the solid ‘thump’ that European cars offer but at least it uses better quality plastics than some upmarket cars I’ve been in.
In the rear, the seats provide ample leg and head space as a SUV should. Though the leg space does get a little cramped for tall passengers sitting behind a tall driver.
Bootspace is abundant like in most SUVs with a tailgate that opens side ways to aid in loading. Boot capacity stands at 398 litres in a normal 5 seat configuration. This space can be expanded to nearly double (758 litres) with the seats knocked down.
The Drive
Off-road, the Vitara doesn’t disappoint. The Vitara climbed up steep slopes without problems despite the slippery conditions. Damping on gravel and dirt tracks do feel a little firm though this was a good thing. Unlike most soft roaders, the Vitara’s firmer setup means that when entering and exiting gulleys, the front or rear won’t dip so much that it would bottom out and damage the front or rear bumpers.
|
On-road, the Vitara is an engaging drive with the steering giving ample feedback from its front wheels without the power steering diluting too much of the driving experience. Damping might’ve felt firm off-road but it was hardly noticeable when driving along baby smooth tarmac. In fact, most wouldn’t know the difference unless told about the firmer suspension on the Vitara compared to soft-roaders.
Although it does get a little ‘chatty’ in the lower gears under hard acceleration, the engine is more than capable enough with its 166bhp directing power through the mechanical 4WD.
There is one complaint though. More thought should’ve been given to the placement of the cruise control buttons. While making turns, the cruise control kept getting activated due to the buttons being placed on the steering wheel itself.
Although it does get a little ‘chatty’ in the lower gears under hard acceleration, the engine is more than capable enough with its 166bhp directing power through the mechanical 4WD.
There is one complaint though. More thought should’ve been given to the placement of the cruise control buttons. While making turns, the cruise control kept getting activated due to the buttons being placed on the steering wheel itself.
Conclusion
The Vitara is a good choice for family men who have a streak of adventurism in their bloodstream. The off-road capabilities of this SUV are a good enough without being impractical. The multi-mode 4WD system will get you out of most ruts though for those times it doesn’t, one shouldn’t go off-roading alone anyway.
The second generation Grand Vitara is definitely an improvement over the first. Not only in the looks department but also in its trick 4WD differential.
If you’re looking for a compromise between a family SUV and an off-road vehicle, the Suzuki Grand Vitara 2.4 will be worth a test drive.
The Vitara is a good choice for family men who have a streak of adventurism in their bloodstream. The off-road capabilities of this SUV are a good enough without being impractical. The multi-mode 4WD system will get you out of most ruts though for those times it doesn’t, one shouldn’t go off-roading alone anyway.
The second generation Grand Vitara is definitely an improvement over the first. Not only in the looks department but also in its trick 4WD differential.
If you’re looking for a compromise between a family SUV and an off-road vehicle, the Suzuki Grand Vitara 2.4 will be worth a test drive.
Photos by Benjamin G, Kline
Car Information
Suzuki Grand Vitara 2.4 4WD (A)
CAT B|Petrol|9.8km/L
Horsepower
124kW (166 bhp)
Torque
225 Nm
Acceleration
12sec (0-100km /hr)
This model is no longer being sold by local distributor
All Used Suzuki Grand Vitara
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