Suzuki Grand Vitara Grabs Compact 4x4 Of The Year Award

Published: 9th May 2007

Suzuki Grand Vitara

Suzuki’s Grand Vitara has received a ringing endorsement from Germany’s leading off-road magazine, AutoBild allrad. More than 35,000 readers - half its circulation - voted the Japanese SUV their compact 4x4 of the year 2007.

AutoBild allrad is Germany’s largest-selling 4x4 title and in scooping the top spot, Grand Vitara beat off the challenge of 19 other competitors. The accolade vindicates Suzuki’s philosophy of providing a combination of genuine off-road competence and comfortable on road performance.

Available as 1.6-litre VVT and 1.9 DDiS 3-door and 2.0-litre 16v and 1.9 DDiS
5-door models, the Grand Vitara range effectively provides customers with the choice of two levels of four-wheel drive capability. The 1.6 3-door VVT petrol engined model is essentially a ‘soft roader’, while the rest of the range supplements permanent four-wheel drive with a centre differential lock and a low range to deliver serious and outstanding off road capability.

A unique lightweight monocoque body combined with a stiff, built-in ladder frame means rigidity matches the most traditional of off roaders, yet the all-independent suspension offers excellent driving comfort and responsive handling.

Furthermore, equipment levels are generous and include climate control air conditioning, front electric windows, an integrated radio/CD player with steering wheel mounted audio controls, tinted glass, tilt adjustable steering, reclining rear seats, heated and folding door mirrors, immobiliser, alloys and front fogs. Outstanding safety credentials include front, side and curtain airbags for front seat occupants, plus curtain airbags in the rear.