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.
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.
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| 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.
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| Suzuki put a strong emphasis on the safety aspect. |