For a V-6 with paltry mileage, the Grand Vitara's acceleration is merely adequate. Our friends at MotorWeek clocked a comparably equipped 4WD Grand Vitara automatic's 0-60 mph time at 9.0 seconds. Rear-wheel drive or a manual transmission (or both) would make for quicker sprints. Though a four-cylinder has been rumored for the 2009 model year, pokier acceleration is practically guaranteed. A stronger V-6 has also been rumored, but we can't guess how that would affect mileage; it could well improve despite a power increase.
The antilock brakes have front discs and rear drums. Another disappointment, drum rear brakes are technically inferior and on their way out, though the Escape is another holdout. It's the result that counts more than the formula, though, and unfortunately MotorWeek cites a 60-0 mph stopping distance of 135 feet, which is a bit long.
On-Pavement Driving
Government data show that most rollover
accidents for multi-purpose vehicles are
caused when a driver loses control of the
vehicle and leaves the paved portion of the
roadway striking a ditch, cur ...
Heated Rear Window and Heated Outside Rearview Mirrors (if equipped) Switch
Type 1
Type 2
When the rear window is misted, push this
switch (1) to clear the window.
If the driver’s outside rearview mirror has
the mark (2), it is also equipped with the
heated outs ...
“ESP OFF” Switch
“ESP OFF” Switch
ESP® is a registered trademark of
DaimlerChrysler AG.
The “ESP OFF” switch is located on the
center of the instrument panel. You can
turn the ESP® systems (other than ...