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Suzuki Grand Vitara - What the Auto Press Says

The 2010 Suzuki Grand Vitara ranks 12 out of 21 Affordable Compact SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 67 published reviews and test drives of the Suzuki Grand Vitara, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

The Suzuki Grand Vitara stands out for its low price, off-road performance and powerful engine options. However, it simply can't compete with the top crossovers in its class since it has a somewhat bumpy ride in around-town driving.

If you want an off-roader that won't break the bank, the Grand Vitara is for you. It's one of the most affordable compact SUVs on the market. In fact, the only cheaper alternative is the Jeep Patriot (by about $700). Adding to the Suzuki's value is its class-leading seven-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. "Suzuki's Grand Vitara wasn't thrilling to drive, but it's pleasant enough -- and pleasure becomes relative when price enters the mix," says Mother Proof. "If you're part of a family of four that's looking for functionality AND great value, this SUV might just have you shouting for joy."

However, the Grand Vitara may not be as good a value as it seems. IntelliChoice gives the 2009 model a "Poor" value rating because of its high cost of ownership over five years. In addition, though the Grand Vitara's ride is quite smooth for an off-road SUV, it doesn't ride as well on the pavement as its crossover rivals. Its 19/26 mpg fuel economy rating is also poor when compared to most compact SUVs (though it's good when compared to only off-roaders). If you need an off-road vehicle with better fuel economy, consider the Jeep Patriot. It's the cheapest off-road SUV on the market and boasts better fuel economy than most of its competitors. Be aware though, the Patriot doesn't improve upon the Grand Vitara's ride.

There are several more efficient and better-riding alternatives, but the extra comfort will cost you more. If you can do without extreme off-road chops, the Subaru Forester provides a comfortable ride with capable all-wheel drive, and costs only about $2,000 more than the Grand Vitara. Plus, IntelliChoice gives it an "Excellent" value rating. The Ford Escape is in the same price range, provides excellent 22/28 mpg fuel economy and gets an "Above Average" rating from IntelliChoice.

For 2010, the Grand Vitara is unchanged so consider buying a 2009 model. You may be able to snag a discount as dealers make room on their lots for the 2010s. The Grand Vitara seats five and is available in several trims -- base, Premium, XSport, and Luxury.

• "Suzuki improves the already-likable Grand Vitara with significant powertrain additions and improvements... Add to that a comprehensive list of standard safety features, competent road manners, adequate passenger space, and laudable off-road ability when properly equipped, and Grand Vitara is one of the strongest values in the compact SUV class and well worth your consideration." -- Consumer Guide
• "Grand Vitara is quite the little competitor equally at home whether on road or off." -- Gear Diary
• "The Vitara has good overall vision, a spacious cabin, and straightforward controls. Its side-hinged, rear cargo door provides quick and efficient access and the Suzuki has the feel of a multi-use ranch vehicle. Beyond its appealing price, it may not do anything as the best in its class. But it does most things well." -- The Weekly Driver
• "For a small ute, this one is not all that bad, although we wonder just how many folks have Suzuki on their radar screen." -- AutoWeek
• "The...Suzuki Grand Vitara we recently had in for a test spin is one of the few capable compact offerings left for the U.S. market." -- Motor Trend

 

Grand-Vitara Performance - 7.3 (Good)

The Suzuki Grand Vitara is quite inexpensive for an off-road vehicle. Still, it performs only adequately on the pavement -- especially when compared to its car-based competitors. "Compared with the car-based Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V, it suffers from dull turn-in and more pronounced body roll," says Car and Driver.  Read More

Grand-Vitara Exterior - 9.2 (Excellent)

Critics find the Grand Vitara's nondescript, boxy styling pleasant enough. Car and Driver says its "pugnacious styling looks tough enough to scare off most competitors, although the Dodge Nitro is likely to call its bluff and give it a swirly for trying."  Read More

Grand-Vitara Interior - 8.1 (Very Good)

The 2010 Suzuki Grand Vitara offers a high level of quality seldom seen in Suzuki's previous efforts -- something that's a bit of a surprise and a welcome change. "Step inside -- easily, thanks to the unibody construction -- and you enter a cabin that has gone from worst to near first," says Automobile Magazine. There's also an impressive number of standard features.  Read More

Grand-Vitara Safety - 7.9 (Good)

The 2010 Grand Vitara earns relatively good scores in government crash tests, but doesn't score quite as well as competitors in some areas. It boasts an impressive list of standard safety features.  Read More

Grand-Vitara Reliability - NA

Suzuki provides a three-year/36,000-mile new vehicle limited warranty.  Read More