2008 Suzuki Vitara Review

Suzuki's Grand Vitara, which can be equipped either with rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive for 2008, is powered by a 185-horsepower, 2.7L V6 engine and either a five-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission.

The four-wheel drive system that's available has a full-time mode for on-road driving, which sends power to the front wheels when it's needed, yet also comes with a low range ready for off-road duty. The center differential can be locked while in either high or low range for negotiating off-road terrain, mud, or deep snow. Short overhangs and good ground clearance help negotiate tight off-road situations.

Relative to its compact size, towing is a strong point for the Grand Vitara; it can tow up to 3,000 pounds. It's also a good choice for those who plan to tow a vehicle behind an RV-when in the four-wheel drive system's Neutral position, the Grand Vitara can be towed with four wheels on the ground without registering miles on the odometer.

The Grand Vitara is more truck-like than so-called crossover SUVs (such as Suzuki's own XL7), with a uni-body construction riding on a ladder frame, yet it's fitted with a four-wheel independent suspension for precise handling and a good, smooth ride. Anti-lock brakes-discs in front, drums in back-are standard, including electronic brakeforce distribution.

Other standard safety features on the Grand Vitara include electronic stability control, to help prevent the loss of control on slippery surfaces or in sudden emergency maneuvers, and six air bags, including side air bags for front occupants and side curtain air bags for front and rear outboard occupants. The Grand Vitara seats five, and with the 60/40-split rear seat folded forward its already roomy 24.4 cubic feet of cargo space is expanded to nearly 69 cubic feet.

The base Grand Vitara comes very well equipped, with some items that aren't expected to be standard in its price class, such as automatic climate control, cruise control, steering-wheel audio controls, remote keyless entry, power mirrors, and a CD/MP3 sound system with XM satellite radio compatibility. The sportier, mid-range Xsport adds a SmartPass keyless entry and starting system, six-disc in-dash changer, additional tweeters and a subwoofer, fog lamps, roof rails, and a sunroof, while the top-of-the-line Luxury brings leather upholstery and steering-wheel trim, heated front seats, woodgrain trim, a power sunroof, larger 17-inch alloy wheels, a garage-door opener, and heated mirrors.
The Suzuki Grand Vitara enters its second model year after a major redesign, with only a few feature changes for 2008. Sound-deadening materials have been upgraded for a quieter interior, the climate controls have been redesigned, and a remote fuel-door release has been added. A sunroof is now included on the XSport model. see less