2009 Suzuki Grand Vitara Review

I’m not much of a 4WD lover, mostly because most of my driving is around town, but I’d have to make an exception here. It drives like a dream, is fast off the mark, and doesn’t handle like an army tank.

Suzuki have really hit the mark here, an awesome looking SUV with great lines, awesome handling, and a powerful V6. It’s obviously a little more thirsty than my SX4 but it’s a V6 and has a load more power.

I’d probably feel like a knob driving one around town to be honest, I’m not exactly largely built, but I would surely be lining up for one if I was driving to Auckland a few times a week as it was really a pleasure to drive. There is more storage in the back (sorry the camera was running flat, so only got 1 good shot) than my SX4, and the nice leather seats really bring the Grand Vitara up to the mark.

Now you’ll need to understand I’ve not driving a competing SUV like the Ford Territory or Holden Captiva etc… but to be honest with the price point vs value for money, Suzuki have really hit the mark again!

Kevin at Sydmo (Tauranga) told me it’s a Buick enging which Suzuki have modified, so as mentioned below it hoofs, and with variable mode 4×4 with the turn of a dial, it’s really easy for those who don’t like stuffing around too much.

I didn’t get a chance to play around in the cabin too much as I was driving and had to pick a few things up before picking my SX4 back up again, but the dash panel was well laid out, the only part I didn’t like was the position of the cupholders, mostly because I’m used to my SX4 ones, but did appreciate a place to put change without it being on show.

If I was in the market for an SUV, I would definately put the 2009 Grand Vitara on the top of my list. It looks great, drives like a dream, and has plenty of power (stuff the petrol costs!). I would be interested in testing the diesel model, but I wouldn’t be surprised if I’d prefer the V6 option instead.

I’d be keeping my eye on Suzuki over the next couple of years, they are really pushing new vehicle affordability and delivering great features at the same time. They’re really the black horse of the motoring family, just chipping away at their market share. Keep at it Suzuki!