1999-2005 Suzuki Vitara: Full Review
Updated: 11/23/08
2005 Suzuki Grand Vitara
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1999-2005 Suzuki Vitara ▼
- Price Range: $1,000 - $9,900
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Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 1999-2005 Suzuki Vitara and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Pros
- Off-road capability
- Maneuverability
Cons
- Acceleration
- Rear-seat room
- Visibility
- Rear-seat entry/exit
Vehicle Highlights
Replacing the previous Sidekick, Suzuki's new compact Vitara sport-utility vehicle came in four-door wagon form with a four-cylinder engine, and as a two-door convertible on a shorter wheelbase. Suzuki also introduced a Grand Vitara wagon with a six-cylinder engine and beefed-up body, as well as additional standard features. Built on the same wheelbase as the Sidekick, the Vitara had a slightly longer body, more interior space, and fresh styling. All versions came with either rear-drive or four-wheel drive. With 4WD, the model designations added an "X." The 4WD system included low-range gearing and could be shifted "on the fly" between 2WD and 4WD-High, but was not intended for use on dry pavement. Rivals included the Honda CR-V, Subaru Forester, Kia Sportage, and Toyota RAV4. Chevrolet offered a closely related Tracker, built by Suzuki from the same design as the Vitara, but with no V6 engine choice and no equivalent to the Grand Vitara. Grand Vitaras actually went on sale first, with a 155-horsepower 2.5-liter V6. Choices included the JS and JS Plus with two-wheel drive, and JLX and JLX Plus with 4WD. "Plus" versions included alloy wheels and antilock braking (which was not available on other models). Vitara convertibles had a folding soft top over the rear seats. JS and JX two-doors used a 97-horsepower 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine, while JLS and JLX two-doors, and all wagons, got a 2.0-liter four-cylinder that made 127 horsepower. A five-speed manual transmission was standard, with four-speed automatic optional.
Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | Suzuki Grand Vitara Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 2 | |
| Fuel Economy | 4 | |
| Ride Quality | 2 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 2 | |
| Quietness | 2 | |
| Controls/Materials | 3 | |
| Interior Room | 3 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 3 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 6 | |
| Value within Class | 2 | |
| Total Score: | 29 |
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 1999-2005 Suzuki Vitara. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 1999-2005 Suzuki Vitara.
Year to Year Changes
2000 Suzuki Vitara:
A new top-line Grand Vitara Limited joined the group for 2000, and was the only model with leather upholstery, deep-tinted glass, and fog lamps. Grand Vitaras were outselling regular Vitaras by a 5-to-1 ratio, though that margin would later drop to 2-to-1. Antilock braking was standard only on the Grand Vitara JLS Plus, JLX Plus, and Limited.
2001 Suzuki Vitara:
Only detail changes in equipment marked the 2001 models. A revised audio system incorporated a CD player. Regular Vitaras displayed a revised grille, and the Grand Vitara Limited got new-look alloy wheels. All models except the Limited had new seat fabric.
2002 Suzuki Vitara:
This year, the Grand Vitara's V6 engine gained 10 horsepower and the Grand Vitara Limited was available with heated front seats. Four-wheel-drive Limiteds came with heated door mirrors. All Vitaras gained rear child-seat mountings. The original Vitara's 1.6-liter engine was dropped.
2003 Suzuki Vitara:
Gone for '03 were JLS, JLX, and Limited trim levels, replaced by simple 2WD and 4WD designations. A restyled dashboard and center console freshened the cabin.
2004 Suzuki Vitara:
Only the 4-door wagon bodystyle and the 165-hp V6 survive for the Vitara in 2004. The 2-dr bodystyle and the 4-cylinder engine were cut this year.
2005 Suzuki Vitara:
Suzuki's smallest and oldest SUV loses its base Vitara model for 2005.
Our road test for the 1999-2005 Suzuki Vitara includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 1999-2005 Suzuki Vitara and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 1999-2005 Suzuki Vitara is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
Four-cylinder Vitaras are slow, with coarse engines. A V6 Grand Vitara is a little quieter and quicker, but acceleration is only adequate, taking a leisurely 11.5 seconds to reach 60 mph. Automatic-equipped 4x4 models have averaged 17.9 to 20.7 mpg and furnish timely downshifts when coupled with the V6 engine. The manual gearshift is vague, with long throws. Suzuki's 4WD system is less convenient than a permanently engaged unit used in the Honda CR-V, Ford Escape/Mazda Tribute, or Subaru Forester. Those rivals lack the Vitara's 4-Low range for off-road work. All models deliver an uncomfortably choppy ride on all but smooth surfaces. Directional stability is compromised by crosswinds, and steering feel is indistinct. Hard cornering brings marked body lean and only moderate grip. Braking fails to inspire confidence, yielding substantial nosedive, inconsistent pedal action and, even with ABS, rear-wheel lockup in simulated panic stops. Interiors are not especially hospitable, even on Grand Vitaras. Chair-height front seats are short on thigh support and rearward travel for long-legged occupants. The rear bench in both body styles is hard, has an even shorter cushion, and offers scant leg space. Step-in height is reasonable, but rear entry/exit is hampered by very narrow door bottoms in wagons. Although the dashboard layout is good, audio controls (until 2001) were small and poorly marked. Interior storage is adequate, but cargo floors are short and space is modest for a wagon, even with rear seats folded. Worse, the one-piece cargo door on both body styles opens to the right, blocking loading from the curb. Visibility is poor to the rear, but otherwise good. The air conditioner struggles to cool the cabin on sunny days, and most interior materials have a low-buck feel.
Value for the Money
Off-road ability is the Vitara's strongest quality. Both body styles have been priced to attract young buyers who crave a 4x4 image, but they're also-rans in room and comfort.
Off-road ability is the Vitara's strongest quality. Both body styles have been priced to attract young buyers who crave a 4x4 image, but they're also-rans in room and comfort.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category | Suzuki Grand Vitara Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 2 | |
| Fuel Economy | 4 | |
| Ride Quality | 2 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 2 | |
| Quietness | 2 | |
| Controls/Materials | 3 | |
| Interior Room | 3 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 3 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 6 | |
| Value within Class | 2 | |
| Total Score: | 29 |
Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer
Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering
and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room,
Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle
rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the
ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.
Our reliability study for this generation Suzuki Vitara includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Suzuki Vitara .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Fuel pump:
Suzuki is recalling 59,888 Grand Vitara SUVs from the 1999-2001 model years. When temperatures drop below minus 13 degrees (F), moisture can freeze in the fuel-pressure regulator. That could lead to fuel leakage, which could cause a fire in the presence of an ignition source.
Keyless entry:
Keyless-entry keyfob battery dies prematurely due to bad diode inside. Only applies to units with Suzuki name in white on fob. (1998-2002)
Suspension problems:
Vibrations from the front suspension and steering, especially at speeds in excess of 55 mph, make vehicle difficult to control. (1999-2002)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $530 |
| Alternator | $430 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $765 |
| Brakes | $220 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | $430 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $540 |
| Exhaust System | $240 |
| Radiator | $305 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $525 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $275 |
Our price chart for this generation Suzuki Vitara details a range of prices in
year-by-year listings based on vehicle mileage and condition.
| Prices | Good | Average | Poor |
|
|
|||
| 2005 | |||
| Grand Vitara | $8,700-11,000 | $7,800-9,900 | $4,500-5,700 |
| 2004 | |||
| Grand Vitara | $7,500-9,500 | $6,800-8,600 | $3,800-4,800 |
| Vitara wagon | $6,700-7,800 | $5,900-6,900 | $3,100-3,600 |
| 2003 | |||
| Grand Vitara | $6,200-7,300 | $5,400-6,400 | $2,700-3,100 |
| Vitara convertible | $4,500-5,700 | $4,200-5,300 | $1,600-2,100 |
| Vitara wagon | $5,600-6,700 | $4,800-5,800 | $2,300-2,700 |
| 2002 | |||
| Grand Vitara | $4,800-6,500 | $4,000-5,500 | $1,800-2,500 |
| Vitara convertible | $3,400-4,600 | $2,700-3,600 | $900-1,200 |
| Vitara wagon | $4,300-5,500 | $3,600-4,600 | $1,500-1,900 |
| 2001 | |||
| Grand Vitara | $3,900-5,500 | $3,200-4,500 | $1,200-1,700 |
| Vitara convertible | $2,600-3,900 | $1,900-2,900 | $500-800 |
| Vitara wagon | $3,300-4,500 | $2,600-3,600 | $800-1,100 |
| 2000 | |||
| Grand Vitara | $3,300-4,500 | $2,600-3,600 | $800-1,100 |
| Vitara convertible | $1,900-3,000 | $1,300-2,100 | $300-500 |
| Vitara wagon | $2,600-3,700 | $1,900-2,700 | $500-800 |
| 1999 | |||
| Grand Vitara | $2,700-3,800 | $2,000-2,900 | $600-800 |
| Vitara convertible | $1,500-2,300 | $1,000-1,500 | $200-300 |
| Vitara wagon | $2,000-2,900 | $1,400-2,000 | $300-500 |
|
|
|||
This chart details a range of prices in year-by-year listings for vehicles in three condition levels:
Good: a clean low-mileage, solid-running vehicle that needs little or no repair.
Average: a car with normal miles on the odometer, perhaps a few scrapes or dings;
engine might need a minor repair or two, but runs acceptably well.
Poor: might have potentially dangerous problems with the engine and/or body, or
abnormally high mileage; definitely in need of mechanical attention. Valuations
reflect wholesale prices paid by dealers at auction, and retail prices on used-car
lots. Each range covers all trim levels and engine types for a vehicle with a typical
amount of equipment--usually an automatic transmission, air conditioning, stereo,
etc. Fully loaded vehicles may cost more. Average mileage is 12,000 miles per year. Keep
in mind that these are guidelines only. Actual selling prices vary- especially from
region to region.
Specs for this generation Suzuki Vitara include everything from fuel mileage to seating capacity to options availability.
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | 2-door convertible | 4-door wagon |
| Wheelbase, in. | 86.6 | 97.6 |
| Overall Length, in. | 152.0 | 164.6 |
| Overall Width, in. | 67.3 | 70.1 |
| Overall Height, in. | 66.8 | 67.8 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 2778 | 3197 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 33.7 | 44.7 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 14.8 | 16.8 |
| Seating Capacity | 4 | 5 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 40.9 | 39.9 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 41.4 | 41.4 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 39.5 | 39.6 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 30.5 | 30.5 |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
||
Powertrain Options and Availability
Three engines have been available in Vitaras. A 1.6-liter, dual-overhead-cam four-cylinder in Vitara JS and JX convertibles produced 97 horsepower until it was discontinued after 2001. The 2.0-liter four in Vitara JLS and JLX convertibles and all wagons made 127 horsepower. Grand Vitaras carried a 2.5-liter V6, rated at 155 horsepower (raised to 165 in 2002). A five-speed manual gearbox was standard, with a four-speed automatic transmission optional. The 4-cylinder engine was cut in 2004.
| Engines | cu. in |
Horse- power | Torque | Transmission: |
Consumer Guide Observed |
| ohc I4 | 1.6 / 97 | 97 | 103 | 5-speed manual: 25/28 4-speed automatic: 25/27 |
5-speed manual: -- 4-speed automatic: -- |
| dohc I4 | 2.0 / 122 | 127 | 134 | 5-speed manual: 22/24 4-speed automatic: 23/25 |
5-speed manual: -- 4-speed automatic: -- |
| dohc V6 | 2.5 / 152 | 155-165 | 160-162 | 5-speed manual: 19/22 4-speed automatic: 19/21 |
5-speed manual: -- 4-speed automatic: -- |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
|||||
Built In: Japan
Drive Wheels: longitudinal front-engine/front- or 4-wheel drive
Detailed safety information for this generation Suzuki Vitara include detailed crash test scores from the NHTSA.
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
Vehicle crash test information not available at this time.The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Sideimpact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Learn about official auto recalls, reliability issues, and vehicle problems for the 1999-2005 Suzuki Vitara directly from the NHTSA and manufacturers.
NHTSA Recall History
1999:
An electrical short circuit could occur due to pinched wires between the rear stereo speaker and the speaker retaining plate.
1999:
Brakes may be inoperative due to a malfunctioning lamp-actuating switch.
1999:
Seatbelts may not properly restrain occupants because of undertorqued lower- anchor bolts.
1999:
The steering shafts could separate due to a cracked coupling. Steering control could be lost without warning.
1999-03 Grand Vitara:
Under ambient temperatures below -25 degrees (C), moisture may freeze in fuel pressure regulator; at time of start-up, fuel pressure may increase, causing fuel loss at pipe/hose connection.
1999-05 Grand Vitara, w/16-inch wheels:
Front brake discs may break under severe driving conditions.
1999-2004 Grand Vitara:
The accelerator cap may be faulty causing the accelerator cable to fray, resulting in the gas pedal possible sticking. Dealers will inspect and replace affected parts.
2000-01 Grand Vitara/Grand Vitara XL-7:
In cold weather, moisture can freeze and expand in the fuel-pressure regulator, causing fuel loss at the fuel-pipe/fuel hose-connection upon startup
2001 Grand Vitara:
Tire-information label is not permanently affixed as it should be.
2001-04 Grand Vitara XL-7:
Under ambient temperatures below -25 degrees (C), moisture may freeze in fuel pressure regulator; at time of start-up, fuel pressure may increase, causing fuel loss at pipe/hose connection.
2002-03 Grand Vitara:
Windshield may not be properly secured to the vehicle. Dealer will inspect and replace affected windshields.
2004 Vitara:
Under ambient temperatures below -25 degrees (C), moisture may freeze in fuel pressure regulator; at time of start-up, fuel pressure may increase, causing fuel loss at pipe/hose connection.
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