The Grand Vitara badge has been synonymous with Suzuki for the longest time. Initially indicating that the Vitara featured five doors, the 'Grand' moniker gave birth to a dedicated line of active SUVs with generous space and credible capabilities. The latest Grand Vitara still offers the same value as before but has added refinement to make it even easier to live with than before.
Related: The best deals on Suzuki Grand Vitara models on AutoTrader
The latest Grand Vitara is available in five different trims, offering you a choice of two powertrains, three gearboxes, and a choice of either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. Choosing the right variant for your needs can prove a little tricky, but we're here to help you select the best.
Suzuki Grand Vitara trims
The Grand Vitara is available in both GL and GLX trim, with the GLX trim adding several creature comforts and tech enhancements to create a more attractive proposition.
The GL derivatives, powered by a 1.5-litre, naturally aspirated petrol engine, and paired with either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic, are fitted with features such as LED Daytime Running Lights (DRLs), LED headlights, roof rails, 17-inch alloy wheels, keyless entry and a pushbutton start, automatic climate control, cruise control, and a multi-function steering wheel with artificial leather trim as well as partial artificial leather upholstery.
You get a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system that includes wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay for seamless mirroring of your smartphone, allowing you to access your approved in-car apps while on the go.
The GLX variant takes the equipment found in the GL models and augments it by adding chrome exterior garnishes, rear privacy glass, a heads-up display, full synthetic leather upholstery, ambient cabin lighting, and a panoramic sunroof. The roof rails are also finished off in silver on GLX models.
The 7-inch infotainment screen makes way for a 9-inch unit in the GLX models with additional USB charging ports in the rear, wireless charging up front and additional speakers throughout the cabin for a more wholesome audio experience.
Grand Vitara engine options
Along with the two trims, you need to choose between two powertrain options. First up is the tried and tested K15B engine that services a great number of Suzuki products. This willing engine produces 77 kW at 6 000 rpm and 138 Nm at 4 400 rpm and doesn't mind being revved out. You can expect a combined cycle fuel consumption of 6 l/100km from this unit. This engine is available in both the GL and GLX trims, either with the 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic gearbox.
The second power unit is a self-charging, mild hybrid arrangement that uses the K15C engine with a power output of 75.8 kW at 6 000 rpm and 136.8 Nm at 4 400 rpm. The integrated starter generator (ISG) assists the engine under load and acceleration but also helps bring the fuel consumption down to 5.6 l/100km, despite the additional weight of the battery system and all-wheel drive drivetrain.
Indeed, the hybrid Suzuki Grand Vitara is equipped with an intelligent AllGrip all-wheel drive system that allows for selectable modes, ranging from Auto, Sport, Snow, and Lock.
Suzuki Grand Vitara Price
| Model | Price |
| Suzuki Grand Vitara 1.5 GL manual | R347 900 |
| Suzuki Grand Vitara 1.5 GL auto | R368 900 |
| Suzuki Grand Vitara 1.5 GLX manual | R407 900 |
| Suzuki Grand Vitara 1.5 GLX auto | R427 900 |
| Suzuki Grand Vitara 1.5 Hybrid GLX AllGrip | R542 900 |
How much are car repayments on a new Suzuki Grand Vitara?
Verdict
Our pick of the bunch is the Suzuki Grand Vitara in GLX trim with a manual gearbox. If you absolutely have to have an automatic, then spring for the GLX in automatic guise, but the manual is easy enough to drive, and you will be guaranteed to hit those claimed fuel consumption figures. The hybrid is a sensible call, but we can't justify the premium charged for it if you're not going to use the AllGrip AWD system to its full potential off-road.
