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Riding high with the Suzuki Grand Vitara

AUTOBAM

By Bam Santiago Olivares

05/22/2007

With 200mm minimum ground clearance, the Suzuki Grand Vitara is a “go anywhere” vehicle that operates on a full-time four-wheel drive system. By turning the dial switch located on the lower left side of the center dashboard, the driver has the option to use 4H, 4H lock, 4L lock or neutral mode. When set at 4H or normal mode, the vehicle has more grip on cornering especially when it’s raining, although there is greater wear and tear on the tires. The neutral mode is used when the vehicle needs to be towed. The Suzuki Grand Vitara has a 2.0-liter inline 16 valve DOHC petrol engine that produces a maximum output of 145hp at 6000 rpm and maximum torque of 193nm at 4000rpm. It was observed though that the vehicle seemed to need more kick on higher speed, which is probably not a problem with the V6 version of the Grand Vitara (testing this V6 model would be an interesting opportunity for comparison). A welcome feature appreciated by the “fuel consumption-conscious” driver is the LCD display which instantaneously computes consumption. The Suzuki Grand Vitara has the alphabet of safety, namely ABS, EBD, SRS, as well as the convenience of a power package — single zone fully automatic air conditioning, automatic transmission, fully independent suspension and advanced rack and pinion tilt and power steering. The vehicle’s monocoque body with built-in ladder frame enhances both on and off road performance and minimizes squeaking common to some 4x4 vehicles.

On the exterior, the Suzuki Grand Vitara has a well built stance with large multi reflector projector halogen headlamps, enhanced by fog lamps. The center grille has a huge “S” logo in front similar to that of Superman’s. The rear has a spare tire that is located at the center of the tailgate with taillights large enough to be seen day of night. The stable looking exterior design is matched by the 5 spoke 16 inch rims and the 225/70/R16 tires. The interior is spacious with ample legroom, headroom and elbow room (for passengers with average height and weight); with numerous cup holders, handy overhead console and a number of well-placed storage compartments. The five headrests are adjustable and the rear backrest could be reclined or split and folded for extra cargo space.

Sitting on the driver’s seat of the Suzuki Grand Vitara truly gives a feeling of being in control. Whether for on road or off road, for city drivers or out of town adventure seekers, this vehicle simply gives “driving” a new name — that is, “Riding high.”