Suzuki Grand Vitara goes rear-drive

SUZUKI has confirmed it will offer a two-wheel-drive version of its Grand Vitara compact SUV for the first time in Australia.

The 2WD variant, called the ‘Urban’, will give the Japanese car-maker its only non-four-wheel-drive model in its SUV line-up.

The Urban arrives as part of a freshen-up for the entire Grand Vitara range and will become the new entry-level five-door variant.

The update is highlighted by a restyled front end, with the SUV gaining a new front bumper and re-designed grille.

Other changes include new seat fabrics and 17-inch alloy wheels.

Introducing a 2WD version of the Grand Vitara brings Suzuki into line with its direct competitors as Nissan, Toyota and Mitsubishi all offer 2WD variants of their mid-size SUVs.

Suzuki Australia general manager Tony Devers said almost half of all local SUV sales are 2WD and the Urban was a response to customer feedback.

“Customers looking for the legendary reliability and performance of Grand Vitara, but not wanting to venture off the beaten track, can now choose a 2WD version,” he said.

The 2WD Grand Vitara will offer a point of difference as it will be rear-wheel drive, while most of its competitors have front-wheel drive.

“Grand Vitara has always been a driver’s car, making rear-wheel drive the only choice once we decided to add a two-wheel-drive version,” said Mr Devers.

All models including the 2WD Urban are powered by Suzuki’s 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine, except the higher-spec Grand Vitara Diesel that uses a 1.9-litre turbo-diesel.

The diesel has been tweaked slightly for improved fuel efficiency, with a new figure of 6.8 litres per 100km.

Suzuki offers the Grand Vitara with the same five-speed manual and optional four-speed automatic transmission as before, except for the manual-only diesel.

The $26,990 driveaway price for the manual 2WD Urban model undercuts some of its closest rivals, with the Nissan X-Trail ST 2WD manual starting at $28,490 and the Toyota RAV4 CV at $28,990.

Standard features for the Urban model include six airbags, rear park assist, cruise control and Bluetooth.

Suzuki also announced a new integrated 6.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with voice control for the top-spec Grand Vitara Prestige and range-topping SX4 models.

Audio functions such as Bluetooth, iPod connectivity, a USB and auxiliary jack, CD and AM/FM radio are incorporated into the one system and can all be accessed using voice control.

Mr Devers said that the technology will appeal to buyers looking for the latest in technology.

“Suzuki owners can now – with the press of a button and a simple voice command – dial a phone number, tune into a radio station or locate an address without taking their hands off the wheel, or eyes off the road,” he said.

2012 Suzuki Grand Vitara pricing (drive-away):
Three-door
2.4 petrol	$24,990
2.4 petrol (a)	$26,990
Five-door
Urban 2WD	$26,990
Urban 2WD (a)	$28,990
Sport 4WD	$31,490
Sport 4WD (a)	$33,490
Prestige 4WD (a)	$38,990
DDiS 4WD 1.9 litre diesel	$35,990