2006 Suzuki Grand Vitara: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Suzuki redesigns the smaller of its two SUVs for 2006, giving it more room, more power, and more safety features. Grand Vitara gains 6 inches in wheelbase and rear-seat leg room, and is 11 inches longer overall than the 1999-2005 version. It seats five and retains a side-hinged cargo door. Base, Premium, Xsport, and Luxury models are offered. A 185-hp V6 is the only engine; it replaces a 165-hp V6. A 5-speed automatic transmission is available on all models. A 5-speed manual is available for base and Premium. All Grand Vitaras are available with rear-wheel drive. Base and Premium are available with all-wheel drive without low-range gearing. Available for Xsport and Luxury models is Suzuki's 4-Mode AWD that includes a locking center differential and low-range gearing. ABS and traction/antiskid control are standard. So are front side airbags and curtain side airbags. Also standard are power windows/locks/mirrors and split folding rear seat. Heated front seats, leather upholstery, and sunroof are exclusive to luxury models, where they're standard.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Among utility vehicles, Compact SUVs are the least costly and offer the best fuel economy. Most utilize a car-type chassis and are not designed for heavy-duty, off-road use. Nearly all are five-passenger vehicles.

Our Best Buys include Ford Escape, Honda CR-V, Mazda Tribute, and Mercury Mariner. Our Recommended picks are Honda Element, Hyundai Tucson, Jeep Liberty, Kia Sportage, and Subaru Forester.

Suzuki Grand Vitara and Toyota Rav4 are new or significantly redesigned.