2002 Suzuki Vitara: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Suzuki's best-selling line offers more V6 power and some new features for 2002. Vitara is a 4-cyl convertible or wagon, the Grand Vitara is a V6 wagon. Grand Vitaras, which gain 10 hp for '02, outsell Vitaras 2-1. Both come in JLS and JLX models, with Grand Vitara also offering a Limited version. All offer rear-wheel drive or 4WD that must be disengaged on dry pavement but includes low-range gearing. Automatic transmission is optional. ABS is available only on Grand Vitaras, where it's standard on the Limited and optional on JLX. The Limited is newly available with heated front seats, and 4WD Limiteds now come with heated door mirrors. All gain rear child-seat mountings with upper and lower anchors and tethers. Chevrolet's Tracker shares this Suzuki-sourced body-on-frame design, but differs in models and features. Vitara/Grand Vitara matches equivalent Trackers in performance and accommodations.

COMPETITION

Ignored in the past, compact SUVs are now some of the hottest-selling vehicles around. Though our Best Buys, the Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, and Mazda Tribute don't offer true off-road ability, they do mix ride comfort, cargo capacity, and versatility with all-weather traction. The V6 Tribute/Escape offers more power, comfort, and space than any in its class.

Another car-based mini-SUV, the Subaru Forester, is our Recommended choice. Like the CR-V it doesn't have a low range for serious off-road use, but it blends excellent on-road manners with SUV styling.