Suzuki’s new Grand Vitara lineup includes the model’s first-ever two-wheel-drive (2WD) models priced from $26,990 ‘Driveaway’ (five-door manual). Entry-level 4WD model (three-door manual) remains at $24,990 ‘Driveaway’.
Unlike other 2WD SUVs which drive the front wheels, the Suzuki versions (five-speed manual or four-speed automatic) are rear-wheel-drive.
But the V6 engine has gone. The updated Suzuki Grand Vitara range employs the 122kW/225Nm 2.4-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine and the 95kW/300Nm 1.9-litre, four-cylinder turbo-diesel.
Suzuki Australia chief Tony Devers says the introduction of Suzuki Grand Vitara’s first 2WD models is a direct response to customer demand. “In the past couple of years the proliferation of 2WD models has maintained SUVs as the fastest growing segment in the market; not just in Australia but around the world,” Mr Devers explained. “In Australia 2WD models now account for almost half of all SUV sales as customers demand a vehicle that offers the best of both worlds.”
Suzuki Grand Vitara 2WD will be known as the ‘Urban’ grade and still offer am 1850kgs towing capacity.
Other enhancements for the range include two new colours (‘Gaia Bronze’ and ‘Bison Brown’), a revised front-end with new grille and bumper, new-design 17-inch alloy wheels and new seat fabrics inside.
Suzuki Grand Vitara ‘Sport’ models gain integrated touch-screen satellite navigation and rear park assist while range-topping ‘Prestige’ versions also get the navigation system plus a premium sound system, leather seats, keyless entry, sunroof and 18-inch alloy wheels.
The turbo-diesel Suzuki Grand Vitara DDiS benefits from engine management upgrades which drop combined cycle fuel consumption to 6.8l/100kms.
The full updated Suzuki Grand Vitara range looks like this (all prices are ‘Driveaway’):
3-door manual $24,990
3-door automatic $26,990
‘Urban’ 2WD manual $26,990
‘Urban’ 2WD automatic $28,990
‘Sport’ manual $31,490
‘Sport’ automatic $33,490
‘Prestige’ automatic $38,990
‘DDiS’ manual $35,990
