2010 Suzuki Grand Vitara in Washington, PA - $12,995

Offering authentic SUV capability in a sensibly sized package, the Suzuki Grand Vitara SUV balances legitimate off-road capability with the on-road demands of the daily commute. Last year the Grand Vitara received a new look, with a new front grille and front bumper design.

Available in Base, Premium and Limited trim levels, standard power for the Suzuki SUV is generated by a fuel-efficient 2.4L four-cylinder engine. The 3.2L V6 is no longer offered. Torque is communicated to the ground via a five-speed manual gearbox, while a four-speed automatic transmission is optional.

Offered in two- or four-wheel drive configurations, the Suzuki SUV offers drivers two available four-wheel drive options: a full-time single-mode four-wheel drive system or a full-time four-mode four-wheel drive system. The available full-time four-mode four-wheel drive system is one of the most advanced four-wheel drive systems available.

On the road, drivers have the security of full-time four-wheel drive, but when traveling off-road, drivers can use an interior-mounted switch to engage the center differential lock. If the going is really slow, the driver can select the Low (4L Lock) mode for low-speed power and traction. In addition, vehicles equipped with the four-mode system can be towed with all four wheels on the ground (with the transfer case in the neutral position) to reduce driveline wear and prevent non-driving miles from accumulating on the odometer.

The Grand Vitara is no off-road poser. With excellent approach, break-over and departure angles and a maximum of 7.9 inches of ground clearance, the Suzuki SUV is ready for some serious off-roading.

Starting with a rigid, lightweight unibody structure with a built-in ladder frame as the foundation for the control hardware, the Grand Vitara features a four-wheel independent suspension. Up front, MacPherson struts work with coil springs, hydraulic shock absorbers and an anti-roll bar. In the rear, an all-new multi-link configuration is combined with coil springs, hydraulic shock absorbers and an anti-roll bar.

Inside the cabin, occupants are treated to a spacious interior, with above average fit and finish. Last year the Grand Vitara received illuminated steering-wheel controls, new sliding front center armrest, sun visor extensions, new cloth upholstery, improved HVAC controls and upgraded audio system.

Dimensions & specifications

Wheelbase: 103.9; overall length: 177.1; width: 71.3; height: 66.7

All vehicle measurements are in inches.

Engine: 2.4L four-cylinder – 166 hp at 6,000 rpm and 162 lbs-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm;

Transmission: five-speed manual, four-speed automatic

EPA Fuel Economy: 19 city/26 hwy. (2WD/manual), 19 city/25 hwy. (2WD/automatic), 19 city/23 hwy (4WD/automatic)

Cargo capacity: 68.9 cubic feet

Towing capacity: 3,000 lbs.

Safety features

Dual front airbags, front seat mounted side-impact airbags, dual head curtain airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, brake assist, electronic brake distribution, Bluetooth hands-free phone system, daytime running lights, tire pressure monitors, navigation system, central locking system, remote keyless entry, side-impact door beams, and electronic stability program. Premium adds NuLink communications system. Limited adds HomeLink garage door opener, fog lights, keyless ignition, hill decent control, and hill holder control.

Warranty

Basic: 3-year/36,000 mile Bumper-to-bumper

Powertrain: 7-year/100,000 mile

Corrosion: 5-year/unlimited

Roadside Assistance: 3-year/36,000 mile 24-hour

Pricing

The base Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2011 Suzuki Grand Vitara SUV starts from $19,199 for the Base model, $20,999 for the Premium and $23,199 for the Limited. Destination charges add $795.