Grand Vitara has been a preferred SUV in past model year reviews on this website, and the all-new Grand Vitara is no exception. The four-door is available in rear wheel drive and in two 4WD options: a single mode or a full-time four-wheel-drive offering. The V6 engine is mightier now. The 2.7-liter engine – producing 185 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 184 pounds-feet of peak torque at 4500 rpm – helps give the SUV a 3000-pound tow rating. Grand Vitara gains size, too, offering up more legroom for front and rear passengers as well as additional headroom. With the 60/40 split seatbacks tucked forward the vehicle opens up 68.9 cubic feet of space. With rear seats in the upright position, the SUV provides 24.4 cubic feet of space. Ground clearance is 7.9-inches for the 4WD and 7.4-inches in rear wheel drive models.

The stamped steel unibody construction – with built-in ladder frame – features a four-wheel independent suspension and a multi-link rear suspension. Grand Vitara nabs high marks for its steering, handling, roominess and interior layout. Three, deep-dish gauges serve to highlight the dash zone. Two power outlets (12 volt/120 watt) flank the sides of the automatic transmission shifter. The swing-side opening tailgate reveals a largo cargo zone that is complimented by a pull-up strap that reveals a hidden stow space below the carpeting. Three equipment packages are offered: Premium, XSport, and Luxury. Standard safety fare includes six airbags, an electronic stability program with traction control, and anti-lock brakes. Grand Vitata 4WD fitted with automatic transmission tallies fuel per gallon numbers of 19 city and 23 highway. The 2WD drive model with five-speed manual transmission carries a MSRP of $18,999.