2011 Suzuki Grand Vitara /Review

Pricing  $18,999 to $24,949 MSRP/$18,239 to $23,951 Invoice Price
EPA Fuel Economy (MPG): 19 City/23 - 26 Highway

The 2011 Suzuki Grand Vitara is a five-passenger SUV that owns a purely unique design and platform.  For 2011, the Grand Vitara drops the V-6 engine in favor of a 166-horsepower, 2.4-liter inline-four-cylinder that receives 162 pounds-feet of torque.  Rear-wheel drive is standard, and you can choose between a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission.  Full-time single-mode or four-mode four-wheel-drive systems are available as well, but only with the automatic.  The four-mode system includes 4H, 4H Lock (slippery), 4L Lock and Neutral positions and has a limited-slip center differential.

A fully independent suspension and a 3,000-pound towing capacity round out the impressive mechanical specs for the 2011 Grand Vitara.  One benefit of having a less-powerful, lower-displacement four-cylinder engine is the improved gas mileage.  EPA estimates for the Grand Vitara reach 19 mpg in the city and 23-26 mpg on the highway.  Competition includes the Toyota RAV4, Hyundai Tucson, and Honda CR-V.

Trim levels include base, Premium, and Limited, which allow for a little something for everyone.  On the inside, the 2011 Suzuki Grand Vitara boasts a standard navigation system, which adds Google Local Search and traffic and weather information on Premium and Limited models.  A 7-speaker CD audio system with in-dash 6-disc CD changer, subwoofer, and XM® Satellite Radio-ready receiver provides exceptional sound quality and is optional.  Standard features include automatic climate control air conditioning with micron filtration system, illuminated steering-wheel controls, chrome interior door handles, and a sliding armrest. 

A power tilting/opening sunroof, heated outside mirrors, heated front seats with leather trim, and Bluetooth® connectivity are other available options.  The 2011 Grand Vitara boasts 69 cubic feet of cargo volume when the 60/40 rear seats are folded for optimal storage capacity.  The Grand Vitara rides on standard 16-inch wheels, and comes with front tow hooks as well as body-colored side moldings.

As for safety, the 2011 Suzuki Grand Vitara features seat-mounted side-impact airbags for the front seats, side curtain airbags with rollover sensors, antilock brakes with electronic brake-force distribution, and an electronic stability system.
For off-road capability, decent fuel economy, and tons of versatility, the 2011 Suzuki Grand Vitara is a mini force to be reckoned with.