2009 Suzuki Grand Vitara Review

Compact SUV is capable off road, comfortable on road. by G.R. Whale, New Car Test Drive

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The Suzuki Grand Vitara has been thoroughly overhauled for 2009, with more advanced drivetrains, better brakes, new cosmetics, and added features. A new V6 engine is available in addition to the four-cylinder engine. It has not turned soft in the process, nor has Suzuki tried to put seven seats where five belong. The Grand Vitara is quite capable in rugged terrain and offers superior durability than the car-based crossovers.

Four-wheel drive enthusiasts use the term soft-roader for vehicles that have all-wheel drive but aren't really built for anything rougher than a graded dirt road. Built on a front-wheel-drive platform, these car-based crossovers include the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage, Mitsubishi Outlander, and Nissan Rogue.

Suzuki's Grand Vitara is a tougher little bugger. It's built on a rear-wheel-drive platform and is available with four-wheel drive, not all-wheel drive, the former distinguished from the latter by its added low-range gearing. This allows the Grand Vitara to climb or descend steeper inclines and walk over rocky obstacles without boiling its drivetrain. It has a proper underbody layout, with steel suspension arms rather than aluminum, and attention to the engine compartment means the muddy river at the door bottoms won't faze it. For two-wheel drive owners it means a nearly indestructible runabout.

However, just because the Grand Vitara can take some abuse doesn't mean the occupants have to. With fully independent suspension, able engines and a clean cabin, the Grand Vitara does not have the rough-and-tumble ride quality and cabin surroundings the term four-wheel drive often conjures up. It is quite happy on the pavement and doesn't ask any compromises.

The 2009 Grand Vitara is offered in 11 permutations, with nearly every imaginable combination available. All models are rated to tow a small trailer, and many can be flat-towed behind a motorhome.