Added enhancements have made the latest versions of the versatile Suzuki Grand Vitara an even greater force in the four wheel drive market.
Hot on the heels of yet another accolade for the award-winning compact sport utility vehicle come product upgrades that elevate the competitive edge enjoyed by the model.
Electronic stability programme (ESP) and cruise control are now standard across the Grand Vitara range, including the entry level three-door 2.4 JLX.
Flagship version of the five-door 2.4 four-cylinder models available in New Zealand is the LTD which is now equipped with seven-spoke 18 inch diameter alloy wheels shod with 225/65 series tyres. Previously these wheels were an optional extra.
The handsome new alloys top out a lavish specification for the Grand Vitara LTD which includes leather upholstery, keyless entry, keyless start, an electrically operated glass sunroof and front fog lamps.
All versions have climate control air conditioning, trip and fuel computer, alloy wheels and anti-lock brakes with EBD and brake assist.
The Grand Vitara’s capabilities have been further improved by standard fitment of four wheel disc brakes, underpinning the vehicle’s high safety standards.
In the United States, the Insurance Institute awarded the Grand Vitara its highest rating in the frontal crash protection test. And the European New Car Assessment Programme (Euro NCAP) gave the Suzuki a ringing endorsement in its testing, selecting a four star rating for adult occupant protection and a three star rating for child occupant protection.
Combining the active and passive safety features makes the Grand Vitara one of the best-equipped compact SUVs for safety.
What sets the model apart from its rivals is the specially reinforced chassis for added strength and four wheel drive system for genuine off-road use as well as on-road convenience.
The monocoque body has a built-in ladder frame that realises the full potential of the all-wheel independent suspension, offering resistance to twisting and bending.
Unlike most other 4WD rivals, the Grand Vitara has a selectable low ratio mode for serious off road motoring.
“We have had strong business enquiry for Grand Vitara from clients who have requirements for a low range four wheel drive but would like a more compact and affordable vehicle than a double cab utility,” said Gary Collins, sales manager for Suzuki New Zealand.
The Grand Vitara recently won the compact SUV section of the prestigious Australian Overlander 4WD Awards for the third successive year.
“If we were to have separate categories for small petrol and diesel wagons, the Grand Vitara would win both,” said the Overlander judging panel.
The Overlander magazine, which specialises in reviewing four wheel drive vehicles, said the Grand Vitara was one of those vehicles that just did everything well. It had so many “secrets” that made it the great vehicle it is.
The 1.9 DDiS turbo diesel version was praised for its strong and willing engine that made light work of just about any driving situation.
“Pleasing too is the sharp handling chassis that makes the Grand Vitara such a fun vehicle to drive on the road,” said Overlander.
Described as Australia’s toughest judges of 4WD models, Overlander said the low range gearing, tough ladder frame chassis and all-independent suspension quickly impressed the judges on a mixed on and off-road test route that “few other competitors could have covered”.
The Suzuki was judged from a highly competitive field of rivals, including Volkswagen Tiguan, Toyota RAV4, Hyundai Tucson, Nissan X-Trail, Jeep Wrangler, Subaru Forester and Honda CR-V.
More than 2.5 million Grand Vitaras have been sold world-wide, and the model has racked up more than 35 awards.
On-road recommended retail prices start from $31,690 for the three-door 2.4 model with five-speed manual transmission extending to $41,990 for the five-door 2.4 LTD and $46,990 for the five-door 3.2 litre V6 LTD.
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