Suzuki News

Offering the true SUV credentials for which Suzuki has become renowned but with an even more luxurious specification, the Grand Vitara X-EC 5-door is a new special edition of the company’s compact SUV with either 2.0-litre petrol or 1.9-litre diesel power.

The impressively equipped X-EC can be readily identified by its unique Azure Grey Pearl metallic paintwork, silver roof rails and exclusive 17 inch 10-spoke alloy wheels. Further distinguishing touches include silver front bonnet trim, black side mouldings and, of course, X-EC badging.

Keyless entry and start means there’s no fumbling for keys, and once inside an air of luxury is provided by a leather-trimmed steering wheel and Alcantara upholstery. Cruise control and Trafficmaster’s Smartnav navigation system contribute to a relaxed driving experience, and when the preference is for some fresh air, then the X-EC is equipped with an electric sunroof.

That’s on top of an already extensive specification that includes automatic climate control, MP3-audio compatibility, reclining rear seats, front fogs, steering-wheel audio controls, heated electric door mirrors and six airbags.

The Smartnav navigation and congestion avoidance system takes live traffic information from Trafficmaster’s 7,500-strong sensor network and guides drivers around jams and delays to get them from A to B in the shortest possible time.

The package includes a 12 month navigation subscription with live traffic information, plus a one month free trial subscription to Trafficmaster Safe Speed – an in-car alert system which flags up speed limits around fixed safety cameras – and a one-month free trial subscription to Stolen Vehicle Tracking.

The 140 PS 2.0-litre petrol engined Grand Vitara XE-C is priced at £16,999 on-the-road in 5-speed manual form – a 4-speed automatic transmission is available for an extra £1,000 – while the 129 PS intercooled and turbocharged 1.9 DDiS 5-speed manual model retails at £18,499 OTR.

Combined cycle fuel consumption is 32.1 mpg for the 2.0-litre model (automatic 31.0 mpg), while the 1.9 DDiS is capable of 37.2 mpg. CO₂ emissions are 208, 217 and 195 g/km respectively.

The Grand Vitara offers exceptional refinement, with all-wheel independent suspension ensuring a smooth and responsive on-road ride. Yet with its permanently engaged four-wheel drive system, a locking centre differential and low range, it possesses serious off-road capability and the unique monocoque body with ‘built-in ladder frame’ provides exceptional rigidity and toughness.

The relatively long wheelbase which effectively ‘pushes’ the front wheels forwards ensures a spacious cabin with legroom comparable to models from a higher segment and a capacious luggage area able to swallow 758 litres.

Notes to editors:

• The insurance group rating for all Grand Vitara X-EC models is 14D, in common with the standard models.
• 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 and Ignis.
• On the road prices include VAT, delivery to dealer, number plates, 6 months’ VED and First Registration Fee.

Concerned by safety Suzuki are recalling two of it’s models after reports from the Vehicle and Operator Services Agency (VOSA).

Suzuki Swift 1.3 & 1.5 petrol and 1.3 diesel: HANDBRAKE MAY FAIL

It is possible that the parking brake cable end could detach from the trailing brake shoe lever rendering the parking brake ineffective.

Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to refit or replace the cables.

Vehicle’s VIM affected:

TSMMZA11S00103322 to TSMMZA11S00334720
TSMMZA21S00177124 to TSMMZA21S00334713
TSMMZC21S00100148 to TSMMZC21S00334774
TSMMZC91S00119890 to TSMMZC91S00334668
TSMMZA91S00118873 to TSMMZA91S00118873

Reference: R/2007/086

Suzuki Grand Vitara 1.9 Diesel: RISK OF FIRE

It has been identified that due to an improper design of the intercooler inlet hose, there is a possibility that the air/fuel mixture ratio may be incorrect within the diesel particulate filter assembly. This in the worst case may cause the diesel particulate filter to ignite.

Recalled vehicles will be fitted with a modified intercooler hose.

Vehicle’s VIM affected:

JSAJTD44V00102735 to JSAJTD44V00218932

Reference: R/2007/084

Suzuki Grand Vitara 1.9 Diesel: WIRING HARNESS MAY CHAFE RESULTING IN POSSIBLE LOSS OF ENGINE POWER

It has been identified that, due to improper insulation of a branch of the engine wiring harness. The possibility exists that the harness can chafe on the cam cover securing bolt, and sustain damage. Should this occur, a possible sudden loss of engine power might ensue.

Subject vehicles will have the engine wiring harness inspected, and repaired as necessary, before being fitted with a protective cover.

Vehicle’s VIM affected:

JSAJTD44V00103047 to JSAJTD44V00211187

Reference: R/2007/102

Suzuki Grand Vitara 1.9 Diesel: RISK OF FIRE

It has been identified that the intercooler has been improperly designed. This may allow the intercooler to come apart in use, causing an improper mixture ratio of air/fuel in the diesel particulate filter. In the worst case, the particulate filter may ignite.

Recalled vehicles will be fitted with an engine intercooler attachment assembly.

Vehicle’s VIM affected:

JSAJTD44V00102735 to JSAJTD44V00218932
JSAJTA44V00100031 to JSAJTD44V00208913

Reference: R/2007/085