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Introduction This site is all about the Suzuki Grand Vitara 4WD. It contains the most in depth review and information on the SGV on the web. Contents of the site includes ownership, experience and reviews, specifications, pictures, accessories, news trips taken and technical articles and opinions. IMPORTANT: This is a personal site and currently undergoing upgrades and editing!! The car is also known as the Chevy Tracker or Chevrolet Tracker the difference between them is equipment specification and price. The Chevy is available only to North Americans. It is also known as the Suzuki Escudo in Japan for some variants. This page contains the latest news and key opinions on the Suzuki Grand Vitara. It's now undergoing a face lift so old content has been moved to the archive pages and things generally being updated (2010). Enjoy your visit here. News 2009 Series (JB Series II) 3 Door : 2.4L M $24,990 3 Door : 2.4L A $26,990 5 Door : 1.9L M $34,990 (Diesel) 5 Door : 2.4L M $29,990 5 Door : 2.4L A $31,990 5 Door : 2.4L A $36,990 (Prestige) 5 Door : 3.2L A $39,990 (Prestige V6) September 2008 update - Suzuki has finally upgraded the old V6 and 4 cylinder engines. They have been used in various forms for over 12 years and although not completely new or particularly hi-tech they should be well received. New safety features on all models also make the revised versions more desirable. ABS - Anti-locking brakes and EBD - Electronic Brake Distribution and ESP - Electronic Stability Program, front, side and curtain airbags, four wheel disc brakes. The formerly underpowered 3 door
finally gets the proper engine 2.4L petrol engine too! New 2007 Suzuki XL-7
I must admit I was surprised when I saw pictures of the new XL-7. It actually looks odd but good at the same time. It certainly won't be confused for another make or model for that matter?? They have even incorporated 'classic' Vitara and Grand Vitara themes in the design. Interior pics look great with various trim packages but overall a lifting of quality and look of material. It's actually looks likes like a nice place to be and although not 'youthful' in theme it's modern almost Volvo or European in in feel.. A new 3.6 litre V6 engine is now available too! Claimed figures include 186Kw and 329Nm. I understand it has variable valve timing. That's class leading performance - at least spec wise. The drive train is a part time 4wd system presumably 'torque on demand' although the acronym Suzuki will use is still unknown. Yes, it has all independent suspension. Underbody bits are based on General Motors 'Theta' platform (AKA Chevrolet Equinox) but on the outside it all looks unique. It doesn't use the current SGV bits. Any downsides based on spec ? Well reduced 4wd capability via height and system. That said it is largely dependent on what traction control aids will be included with the car. Otherwise dare I say it ? Another typical SUV. Expected release dates are late 2006 for Nth America and 2007 for the rest of the world. 2006 Grand Vitara News In case you haven't heard a completely new Suzuki Grand Vitara (JB Series) has been released in various markets around the world. So far there are 2 body styles the 3 door of the 5 door. There are 4 engines available a 2.0 diesel, 1.6 petrol 4 cylinders, 2.0 petrol 4 cylinders and 2.7 petrol V6. 16 Valve 1.6 Litre 4 cylinder
engine - with variable valve tech or VVTi 16 Valve 2.0 Litre 4 cylinder
engine (J20A) 24 Valve 2.7 Litre V6
cylinder engine (H27A) Direct Injection Diesel 1.9 Litre 4 cylinder
engine. (F9Q) Constant 4WD is available on all models but only the 4 door comes with proper low range gearing. All have 4 speed auto or 5 speed manual except the V6 which has a 5 speed auto. All have open 4WD diffs and only the 5 door has a manual central diff lock with LSD available for high and low range gearing. The body and frame is integrated. It's not a pure monocoque but a modern compromise. The main thing is that it differentiates its self from the rest and being much tougher than other small 4wds. See Land Rover Discovery or Mitsubishi for more details. I hope Suzuki can capitalize on the toughness aspect than the city friendly aspect of this ability since that is what sells in this market - the ability to go off-road. It is interesting to note that the Grand Vitara and Jimny/Sierra are the only 2 door 4WDs left for sale - NEW in Australia. Remember too that there are different mechanical specifications for each country. Ie. Some countries have 2 and 4 doors do not have 4wd. Likewise features vary from country to country. Opinion on the SGV The Grand Vitara package is certainly a niche one. All the other small SUV manufacturers only make monocque bodied cars while Suzuki uses an integrated design (frame and mono) that means its arguably more durable in off road situations. Furthermore it is one of a few that retains a separate low range gearbox with additional electronic aids. So what should the next models provide, judging from past history a further refinement of the chassis, interior, suspension and 4WD system and engine would probably do the trick nicely. Suzuki do not usually follow the 4 year life cycle for cars and more like 6-7 years for 4WD cars instead. So make sure that the car looks decent, one one wants to be seen in a car that looks like an afterthought eg. Liana, Baleno et al.. Check out the other reviews pages for more critical details on the Grand Vitara. My recommendation Since so many don't want to read the
overall reviews here is a summary of my conclusions. The poor standard tyres are partly
to blame for a number of off road traction issues. |
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