Suzuki redesigned its smallest sport-utility vehicle for 2006, giving it more room, more power, and more safety features. Grand Vitaras added 11 inches in overall length, plus 6 inches in wheelbase and rear-seat legroom, making it about the size of the compact Ford Escape. Grand Vitaras came in base, Premium, Xsport, and Luxury models. Seating five, the Grand Vitara retained a side-hinged rear cargo door without separate-opening glass. A 185-horsepower 2.7-liter V6 replaced the prior 165-hp 2.5-liter as the sole engine. A five-speed automatic transmission was available on all models; a five-speed manual was available for base and Premium editions. All models were available with rear-wheel drive. Base and Premium versions were available with all-wheel drive, which had no low-range gearing. Available for the Xsport and Premium was Suzuki's 4-Mode all-wheel drive that included a locking center differential and low-range gearing. Antilock four-wheel disc brakes and an antiskid/traction-control system were standard. So were front side airbags and head-protecting curtain side airbags that covered both seating rows. Also standard were air conditioning, power windows/locks/mirrors, remote keyless entry, and a split folding rear seatback. Available features included heated front seats, leather upholstery, and a sunroof. Grand Vitara carried a 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty that included roadside assistance, and transferrable 7/100,000 powertrain coverage with provision for a free loaner car. Grand Vitara's rivals included the Ford Escape, Honda CR-V, Hyundai Tucson, and Toyota RAV4.