Road Test: 2010 Grand Vitara 3.2 V6 Auto

Suzuki has, in recent years, become synonymous with the small vehicle segment. With such offerings as the Swift, the Alto and even the SX4, one could easily be forgiven for believing that the Japanese manufacturer was determined to make its mark in micro motoring.

The reintroduction of the Suzuki Grand Vitara to the South Africa market is set to dispel this misapprehension. This large five-seater with permanent all-wheel drive is no soft-roader. The Grand Vitara is a true all-terrain 4x4 that incorporates a low-range transfer case and push-button electronic switching between 4x4 modes.

The system incorporates a torque-sensing centre differential, capable of varying power between the front and rear axles depending on road conditions and driving style. When faced with more challenging terrain the centre differential can be locked to further boost traction and stability.

The 3.2 V6 promises 165kW at 6200rpm and 284Nm at 3500 rpm, delivering a top speed of 180km/h and a 9.3 second sprint from 0 to 100.

Standard across the model range are all-disc anti-lock brakes, stability control, front, side and curtain crash bags, front and rear head restraints, and five inertia reel seatbelts; with the 3.2 adding leather upholstery, cruise control, a glass sunroof, xenon high-intensity discharge headlights and hill descent/ascent control to its arsenal of model enhancements.

Offering a more than satisfactory ride, gear changes slip by undetected from the smooth automatic transmission. With driver comfort and ease of function uppermost in the Suzuki’s list of deliverables, the Grand Vitara presents an attractive package for potential purchasers.