Suzuki Grand Vitara

[Doboji]

Thinking about getting it for the woman... seems to fit the Rav4/Escape/Forester market but for alot less with more equipment.

I know it's an off brand... but seriously what do y'all think?

-Max

 

[Manuwell]

Made me think..

 

[ScoobMaster]

We looked at and test-drove a few when we needed to get a new tow vehicle for our new & bigger popup camper. I recommend the XL-7 version (longer wheelbase and more room inside - can even get a 3rd row seat for kids or *TINY* adults) I was VERY much liking the 10yr/100000mi powertrain warranty (goes with the vehicle, no matter if you are the 1st or 10th owner!). We ended up getting an Explorer because it had a bit higher towing capacity, but I still liked the XL-7 - a real bargain if buying used! The only nitpick is that if you are decent size (I am 6' 1" and broad-shouldered) they feel a tad "small" inside. They are about 3" narrower than an Explorer or Trailblazer (don't know how they compare to RAV4 or Escape - those vehicles were not in our consideration due to their limited towing).

I will say that out of a sample of 3 XL-7s that I scrutinized, the build quality of all 3 was EXCELLENT (IIRC - they are they only 'Zuki that is 100% assembled in Japan).

 

[skyking]

I tried it out. I am 6'2" and it did not cut it. It also has crappy fuel economy for its <too small> interior.

 

[ScoobMaster]

Originally posted by: skyking
I tried it out. I am 6'2" and it did not cut it. It also has crappy fuel economy for its <too small> interior.

Yep - that was the clincher for us (along with the towing capacity issue). We would have been just within the limits with our camper and gear (it was *CLOSE* to the XL-7s maximum rating). I could have maybe forgiven the smaller size as a trade-off for some better MPG figures............

........but alas, it did no better than the bigger Explorer. However, if you are not too big and towing is not an issue, they still can be a pretty good bargain used.

 

[ToXiCRaGE]

I am also looking into the GV. I am 6' tall and average build so I would assume that I can fit into this thing no problem. Being newly wed without any kids (unless you count in the dog 🙂 ) I would think that this would be a much better fit for an expading falimy then the Mazda 3 Hatch or the Matrix/Vibe. I have done some good amount of research and this car fits me like a glove (on paper). The only thing I don't like is the side swinging doors which, if I may add, do not have the separate opening window (I guess no car is perfect).

The car also has tons of features for the price, including all the newest safety features you can think of (huge bonus for me). Sure, you don't get 4 disc brakes but I would rather have side airbags then 4 discs (drums brake just as fine). The milage is okay but if you wanna have 6 cylinders, you need to pay more for fuel which I don't think is such a huge issue. Sure the engine could use more power for the fuel it consumes but again, I am sure the 185 hp is enough for this type of vehicle.

Just test drove the CRV over the weekend and although it drives very nicely, the interior is super cheap looking. The dashboard's desing looks like it is 10 years overdue! The next in line are the Rav4 and Tucson.


You may want to check out this LINK

Cheers!

 

[desy]

From what I have read 'the new ones' are better offroaders thatn the CRV and Rav
More like an Xterra or Liberty, fit and finish are a lot better with the new ones and price is very good.
Love the commercials