I must tell you, when I got the invitation to Vancouver for the press launch of the 2006 Suzuki Grand Vitara, my expectations about the new SUV weren't the highest.
In fact to be truthful, I went there thinking I was about to drive the lamest vehicle in a long time.
But from the minute I saw it and got inside, I knew I had made a mistake pre-judging it.
Not only did the SUV blow me away, it would turn out to be the best small SUV I've driven next to the BMW X3.
And in some ways, it's nicer!
The new exterior of the Grand Vitara is sharp attractive and aggressive.
No more 'I'm driving the cheapest, generic looking car on earth' look.
Suzuki has raised their design standing, to not only equal but better the Vitara's main competitors, the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V and anything Subaru.
The interior is one of the nicest, cleanest layouts you will find anywhere.
Comfortable, functional and a more roomy feel, than its competitors.
Everything is in the right place and tastefully done.
And the drive does not disappoint.
The steering feel and suspension are outstanding.
In fact, I prefer the steering and suspension comfort of the Vitara to the BMW X3.
80MPH through the ‘S’ turns on the way to Whistler…No drama or problem for the Suzuki.
Doubt me?
Go do a comparo of your own at your local dealer.
And remember when you drive it, that the Suzuki’s starting price is less than TWENTY GRAND!!!!
But the big surprise on the Vitara compared to its competitors, is that it can go off-road and not disappoint. REALLY!
Criticisms?
1. The motor is a little underpowered (remember, this is coming from someone who drives the world’s best cars everyday so my opinion is a little skewed) compared to a BMW X3.
Note: Its main competitors from Honda and Toyota have the same engine power issues, in my opinion.
2. Steering wheel needs a telescoping function
3. Poor record in previous crash test results (although the Suzuki engineers assured me they aced the off-set crash tests-public results coming soon) with the Vitara and that is no longer an issue.
Bottom line:
If you need more room and versatility than a corolla or civic, like vehicles like the BMW X3 or Subaru's but can’t afford the entry price, need a good daily driver for you, your spouse or your kids for the right price, then the new Grand Vitara should be on your shopping list.
For the money, it’s a hard proposition to refuse.
We’re also seeing a trend here that isn’t good news for the teams at Honda, Toyota and Subaru…Companies like Suzuki, Kia and Hyundai are starting to produce products that are no longer a tier below theirs. These new models and others that are coming soon, are as good as, if not better, for much less money.
Ain’t payback a B _ _ _ H!
Click here to view part two