Suzuki News

The safety performance of Suzuki’s compact SUV, the Grand Vitara, has received a ringing endorsement in the latest round of European New Car Assessment Programme (Euro NCAP) testing, achieving a four star rating for adult occupant protection and a three star rating for child occupant protection.

It has also achieved a three star pedestrian rating, becoming only the third small off-roader to be awarded three stars, the highest pedestrian rating so far awarded in this category.

A key element in Grand Vitara’s performance is its unique monocoque construction incorporating a ‘built-in’ ladder frame – a series of strengthening elements incorporated into the body which provide the passenger cell with exceptional rigidity and prevent deformation. Impact absorbing crush zones direct impact energy away from the cabin. Pedals are also designed to minimise protrusion into the footwell, and a head impact protection structure supplements the curtain airbags.

All models boast a full array of airbags, with front, side and curtain for front seat passengers plus curtain for those in the back. ISOFIX child seat anchors are standard on the rear seats. Front seatbelts are height adjustable and incorporate pretensioners and force limiters.

Pedestrian protection measures include an energy-absorbing front structure for enhanced injury mitigation, and a bumper that uses energy-absorbing materials to help reduce the possibility of serious leg injuries.

Grand Vitara’s passive safety features are backed up by the secure handling and stability provided by permanent four-wheel drive and a chassis characterised by a wide track and relatively long wheelbase.

Customers opting for a diesel powered Suzuki Grand Vitara have until now been restricted in their choice to the larger 5-door bodystyle, but a new 3-door model joins the range from April, priced at a competitive £14,999 on-the-road.

Unlike its petrol-engined 3-door sibling, which is essentially a ‘soft roader’, the new 1.9 DDiS Grand Vitara adopts the drivetrain of the manual transmission 5-door models and supplements permanent four-wheel drive with a centre differential lock and a low range to ensure serious and outstanding off road capability. It can therefore tackle tough, muddy off-road conditions with ease, while the system’s four different modes are easily selected via a dash-mounted rotary switch.

Power output from the Renault-supplied intercooled and turbocharged engine is 129 PS, and a hefty 221 lb ft (300 Nm) of torque peaking at 2000 rpm delivers reassuring ability in both on and off-road driving situations. Such output doesn’t penalise fuel economy either, and the 1.9 DDiS 3 door Grand Vitara achieves 38.2 mpg on the combined cycle, while carbon dioxide emissions are 195 g/km.

In line with other Grand Vitara models, equipment levels are generous, and include climate control air conditioning, front electric windows, an integrated radio/CD player with steering wheel mounted audio controls, tinted glass, tilt adjustable steering, reclining rear seats, heated and folding door mirrors, immobiliser, alloys and front fogs. Outstanding safety credentials include front, side and curtain airbags for front seat occupants, plus curtain airbags in the rear.

Thanks to a unique lightweight monocoque body combined with a stiff, built-in ladder frame, rigidity matches the most traditional of off roaders. In contrast to the 5-door model’s understated elegance, the 3-door with its ‘crouched’ muscular form projects a more sporty persona. A relatively long wheelbase has permitted a roomy cabin with front and rear legroom comparable to that of models from a higher segment.

The 1.9 DDiS 3-door joins a line-up comprising 1.6-litre VVT and VVT+ 3-door manual models; 2.0-litre 16v 5-door manual and automatic models; and 1.9 DDiS 5-door manual model.

Notes to editors:

• All Suzuki models are covered by Suzuki Shield, a 3 year/60,000 mile new vehicle warranty, by Suzuki Assistance, providing 24 hour UK and European roadside assistance, recovery and associated service for 36 months and by a 12* year perforation warranty on the Grand Vitara, Swift, SX4, Liana, Ignis and Wagon R+.
• On the road prices include VAT, delivery to dealer, number plates, 6 months’ VED and First Registration Fee.

*6 years for Jimny

MODEL GRAND VITARA DIESEL M/T 3 DR