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A
while back we overheard a complaint about Grand
Vitara's need for an update. If it was wishful
thinking, Suzuki has granted that wish. For 2006,
Suzuki has launched a ground-up redo of its compact
SUV for five, making it a tad longer and larger
both inside and out, with a wide-stance, bold-faced
styling update with rear-gate mounted spare tire,
plus added safety features.
Suzuki
now combines unit body and frame structural elements
for the Grand Vitara's underpinnings, to achieve
better road manners and interior quiet, while
retaining plenty of off-road kick. Addressing
road performance are some high-tech safety adds:
An anti-lock brake system with electronic brake-force
distribution and an ESP system that can correct
oversteer or understeer conditions for the assurance
of curve-hugging grip. Grand Vitara comes in rear-drive,
or with two full-time four-wheel-drive systems,
in single or shift-on-the-fly four-mode with low
gearing for better off-road control.
Technology
updates touch the interior as well, with front
and rear side curtain airbags among standard safety
equipment. A Micron filtering system keeps the
air conditioned interior fresh, standard on all
versions. XM Satellite capability on the MP3 sound
system is standard, while a six-disk, in-dash
CD is optional.
Grand
Vitara won't always travel alone. Its 3,000-pound
tow capacity can handle small boats or motorcycles,
thanks to a standard 2.7-liter, 185-HP six cylinder
engine mated to five-speed manual or automatic
transmissions. And this SUV is pedestrian friendly
in the manner now mandated for vehicles in Europe
where it's sold, with an energy absorbing hood
and front end to protect a person from serious
head injuries if hit by the vehicle.
There's
one trim level and three optional equipment packages
for the Grand Vitara, with a starting price of
$18,999. Premium and Luxury versions add comfort,
style and driving amenities, with prices topping
out at $24,399. (An XSport Package, out later
this year, with keyless entry and ignition start,
is $22,799 for the four-wheel drive version.)
Call it a bargain hunter's paradise.
Click
here to read RTM's full review of the Grand Vitara
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