2009 Suzuki Grand Vitara Images

The 2009 Suzuki Grand Vitara ranks 11 out of 23 Affordable Compact SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 65 published reviews and test drives of the Suzuki Grand Vitara, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

The Grand Vitara stands out for its off-road performance, powerful engine options and roomy interior. However, it simply can't compete with top crossovers in its class due to a somewhat bumpy ride in around-town driving.

The 2009 Suzuki Grand Vitara is designed to excel at off-road driving, but its performance suffers on the pavement. Still, Suzuki gives the Grand Vitara an edge with its affordable price and category-leading warranty. "All 2009 Grand Vitaras -- which are built in Japan on a rugged unit-body chassis reinforced by a ladder-style frame -- are fitted with stability control and side-curtain airbags (with rollover sensors) as standard equipment, along with rear disc brakes," says Road and Track. "This makes Suzuki's already pleasant little crossover SUV that much better, that much more of a competitor for the Honda CR-V, the best-seller in the class and a front-driver at heart."

For this year, the Grand Vitara gets a new four-cylinder engine option and a more powerful V6. It also gets a revised exterior and more interior amenities. Even with the improvements, the Grand Vitara still falls near the bottom of its class for fuel efficiency -- and is now listed among the slowest-selling SUVs in America. For more efficient and smoother-riding options, consider the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4.

The Grand Vitara seats five and is available in several trims -- base, X Sport, and Luxury -- with either two-wheel or four-wheel drive.

Source : US News