Suzuki is a brand better known for its range of bikes and small city cars like the Swift. Recently, the Japanese company face-lifted its Suzuki Grand Vitara.
Suzuki Grand Vitara 2.4 Summit Review by David Taylor
Despite the big name, the Suzuki Grand Vitara when compared to its rivals is a medium SUV. With an all-new redesigned face, the vehicle gains some brownie points in the looks department. It wasnt exactly the ugliest of offroaders, but this new midlife nip-and-tuck has turned it into quite a looker.
Under the hood of the Suzuki Grand Vitara
The engine is a 2.4-litre naturally-aspirated petrol motor with 122kW and 225Nm. Its not the fastest thing around but theres enough power for most types of driving. Power is delivered to all four wheels through a five-speed gearbox and its here where I picked up my first gripe. Perhaps Ive been spoilt with too many six-speeders, but the five-speed unit feels a little long, which means youre going to be changing down a gear when it comes to overtaking on the open road. A close-range six-speed will work wonders here and I cant help but think itll aid the fuel consumption too.
The Suzuki Grand Vitara off-road capability
If you think that the Suzuki Grand Vitara is just another one of those mommy offroaders that cant actually go offroad, then think again. Admittedly I wasnt aware of the Grand Vitaras offroad credentials, but after I noticed the dashboard drivetrain selection switch, I had to try it out. I headed for the thickest dunes, where I promptly got stuck. Once Id engaged low-range/diff locks, the Grand Vitara pulled itself out with ease. Its deceptively capable offroad and if youre after a city slicker that can be relied upon to go anywhere, this is your car.
Interior features
Interiors are where Suzuki excels itself and the Grand Vitara is no exception. Theres a premium and well-built feel to the dashboard and while there are no fancy LCD screens to dominate the middle cluster, the ergonomics are near perfect. Everything you need is within reach. However, unlike other Suzuki models, I was surprised to see the lack of a USB audio input.
The Summit specification gives you cruise control, leather seats, keyless go, automatic HID headlights, fog lamps, traction control as well as attractive 18-inch wheels for around R60,000 above the Dune derivative. The back seats fold forward not once, but twice giving you a massive boot, which enables things like furniture to be carried with ease. Keep the rear seats down and passengers will enjoy plenty of legroom.
Suzuki Grand Vitara 2.4 Summit – Conclusion
The Suzuki Grand Vitara, like most of Suzukis range of passenger cars, is underrated. Not only is it a great offroad vehicle, perfect for those trips to the middle of nowhere, but its also quite at home sitting in bumper-to-bumper traffic. Its comfortable, well appointed and has most of the creature comforts you need. On the open road, its an absolute pleasure to drive, and is one of the few cars where you dont go numb after an hour in the same position. It is well priced too, which I think is a big feather in its cap.
Suzuki Grand Vitara – Price
Suzuki Grand Vitara 2.4 Summit price as tested: R362 900
- Why you should: Surprisingly capable off-roader, practical, excellent ride, value for money offering.
- Why you shouldnt: Engine is a little thirsty considering its size. No diesel option.
- It would be better if: There was USB connectivity, a 6-speed gearbox and a diesel engine option.
- View the Suzuki Grand Vitara: New / Used
- Competitors worth checking out: Toyota Rav4, Nissan X-Trail, Subaru Forester, Chevrolet Captiva
