Suzuki has been around in Canada for several years now, with dealers in almost every region. However, the brand seldom comes to mind when shopping for a new sport utility vehicle. What makes this even more shocking is the fact that Suzuki was one of the first car companies to offer compact SUVs in North America.

The Grand Vitara looks distinctive even at first glance.

While Suzukis are not a common sight on the road, the Japanese manufacturer keeps playing an active role in this market segment. The Grand Vitara V6 certainly deserves attention from consumers. The current generation might be a few years old, but it remains attractive with plenty of character and distinctive attributes.

The squat-looking body and aggressively-styled front end give the vehicle a unique personality that should not be overlooked. The Grand Vitara looks distinctive even at first glance. Overall, the exterior design is well executed despite some signs of age.

No guesswork
The interior is understated and nicely laid out. The materials are harmoniously matched together with no excess whatsoever. The two vertical metallic strips on the dashboard enhance the tight feel inside, yet I found the whole thing quite pleasant to the eye. Fit and finish are exemplary and should serve as a lesson for other carmakers. Overall build quality is above average as I have no real complaints to make.

Ergonomics are also commendable. The dashboard is cleverly designed and the main controls are easy to reach. The instrument cluster, which consists of three conjoint pods, is quite easy to read though not really innovative. As for the stereo and climate control system, they both do a decent job.

The cabin of the Suzuki Grand Vitara is not the roomiest as far as compact SUVs go. It has to be said that the relatively small exterior does not help. Those under 6 feet tall will find a way to feel at ease, but anyone taller will have to make sacrifices. Front-seat room is at a premium -- as is legroom for rear passengers... unless they're kids or small teenagers.

The dashboard is cleverly designed and the main controls are easy to reach.

In order to make up for the lack of room, designers strived to offer a fairly high driving position that affords great visibility on the road. Generally speaking, comfort is pretty good for four people: two adults up front and two children in the back. It's a shame that noise levels are so high, especially from the engine bay. Soundproofing is clearly insufficient. On a positive note, however, Suzuki put a strong emphasis on the safety aspect. No compromises seem to have been made and every safety feature comes standard across the lineup.

The 2008 Suzuki Grand Vitara uses a 185-hp 2.7L V6 that usually performs well.

Second-class powertrain
The 2008 Suzuki Grand Vitara uses a 185-hp 2.7L V6 that usually performs well. That being said, it definitely lacks gusto when compared to rivals. For instance, the V6 engine of the Toyota RAV4 generates 269 horsepower, or 84 more than the Grand Vitara, which is a major difference. Furthermore, fuel consumption is fairly high, with a real-world average of 12.5 liters per 100 kilometers. As for the transmission, it operates just like it should, though it won't impress anyone.

Considering the size of the Grand Vitara, the turning radius is surprisingly large, which may hamper off-road maneuvers and city driving. Handling and agility are really not some of the strengths of this vehicle; in fact, I would say they're below average. Braking performance is even worse, though. The rear drums are extremely noisy. Four-wheel disc brakes are not even optional -- and we're talking about a 4x4! At least, the stability and traction control systems are up to the task, stepping in at the right time.

Recap
The 2008 Suzuki Grand Vitara boasts distinctive looks and a well laid-out interior. As a true 4WD SUV, it will get you wherever you want to go and then a bit farther. Value is unquestionably a strong selling argument here, even though buyers have to make a number of concessions when they choose this Suzuki over one of its many fierce competitors. Every new model that comes in further sinks the Grand Vitara.

Suzuki put a strong emphasis on the safety aspect.

Competition
1) Dodge Nitro ($26,495)
2) Ford Escape V6 ($26,495)
3) Hyundai Tucson V6 ($26,495)
4) Jeep Liberty V6 ($27,695)
5) Kia Sportage V6 ($27,235)
6) Mazda Tribute V6 ($27,150)
7) Mitsubishi Outlander V6 ($24,498)
8) Saturn Vue V6 ($31,275)
9) Subaru Forester ($27,595)
10) Toyota RAV4 V6 ($29,900)
11) Volkswagen Tiguan (around $27,000)

The 2008 Suzuki Grand Vitara boasts distinctive looks and a well laid-out interior.