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.
A Stereo of Note
As a longtime audio freak as well as a car reviewer, I know that speaker
counts, wattage claims and the term "premium stereo" mean nothing in the real
world. I like to highlight when an ...
Temperature Gauge
Temperature Gauge
When the ignition switch is in the “ON”
position, this gauge indicates the engine
coolant temperature. Under normal driving
conditions, the indicator should stay within
th ...
Heating System
Description of Controls
Temperature selector (1)
This is used to select the temperature by
turning the selector.
Blower speed selector (2)
This is used to turn on the blower and to
select blow ...