NEWS: 2006 Suzuki Grand Vitara

With files and photos from Suzuki Canada

The only thing the all-new 2006 Suzuki Grand Vitara has in common with the outgoing model is the name. Completely new from the ground up, the Grand Vitara now offers sleek styling, a more powerful standard V6, comprehensive safety, advanced handling characteristics on- and off-road and useful technology.

Inside the chiseled exterior of the Grand Vitara awaits a thoughtfully designed interior with materials, fit-and-finish standards, safety, and technology features that compete with vehicles costing thousands more. From roof-mounted, supplemental side curtain airbags to help protect occupants in side impact crashes to an available SmartPass™ keyless entry and start system, the Grand Vitara reaches a new level of sophistication in this price range.



Also new for 2006 are two available four-wheel drivetrain options, a full-time four-wheel-drive system (JA, JX, JLX models) and a four-mode, dual-range four-wheel drive system (JLX-Leather). All models feature the same lightweight, stiff unibody construction, enhanced with a robust built-in ladder frame to offer the best of both worlds - a refined on-road ride and the rugged off-road performance expected from Suzuki SUVs.

The stiff, lightweight frame structure is teamed with a fully independent suspension system that features MacPherson struts in the front and a multi-link system in the back.

To help the driver maintain control, particularly in emergency maneuvers, Electronic Stability Program (ESP) with traction control and an anti-lock brake system (ABS) with electronic brake-force distribution (EBD) are standard.



The standard 2.7-liter, six-cylinder, 24-valve DOHC engine generates 185 horsepower and 184lb.-ft. of torque, giving the Grand Vitara a 3000-lb. tow capacity, enough to haul small recreational boats or a pair of personal watercraft. Also, a specially tuned variable induction system (VIS) improves throttle response and overall engine efficiency, while the engine rides on hydraulic mounts to further reduce noise and vibration

The Grand Vitara delivers 12.4/9.3 L/100 km. city/highway with the optional five-speed automatic.

The Grand Vitara is offered in 4 model trim versions. The Grand Vitara JA starts at an MSRP of $24,495 with a five-speed manual transmission and all wheel drive.

The Grand Vitara JX 5-speed M/T has an MSRP of $26,495. Move up to JLX for $28,995. The top of the line fully loaded JLX-Leather model has an MSRP of only $29,995.