Suzuki calls the newly redesigned version of its primary sport utility vehicle an “offroad athlete” and says it delivers “class-leading interior space.” Based on a purely Suzuki design, the 2006 Grand Vitara went on sale in August 2005. Competitors include theHonda CR-V, Hyundai Tucson and Toyota RAV4.
Described as “all-new” by executive general manager Hirotaka Ono, the latest Grand Vitara was designed with nearly 50/50 weight distribution and a fully independent suspension. Full-time four-mode four-wheel drive is available on upper-end models. Six airbags and an Electronic Stability Program are standard.
Premium, XSport and Luxury Packages are available. Under the Grand Vitara’s hood sits what is essentially an XL-7 engine, modified to increase its power bands and improve emissions. No four-cylinder version is available, but Suzuki executives have indicated that it might be added later.
Suzuki continues to produce the seven-passenger XL-7 flagship SUV. Early in 2006, Suzuki plans to introduce a seven-passenger midsize SUV. A new midsize sedan and a sport crossover model will debut in February 2006. “We are on the move,” Ono said.
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