2010 Suzuki Grand Vitara Limited

Value-packed compact sport-utility vehicle

By Nina Russin

2010 Suzuki Grand Vitara

Despite being one of the older models in its vehicle line-up, the Grand Vitara remains one of Suzuki’s best products. The compact sport-utility with true off-road capability embodies the automaker’s core values: fun, adventure and affordability.

While Suzuki’s footprint in the US car market is relatively small, the company has accrued legions of fans for its motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles and marine products. Suzuki customers take their playtime seriously; the Grand Vitara was designed to meet their automotive needs.

It also fits their budgets. The limited grade is the most upscale of four available trim levels. Yet base price for the four-wheel drive model is just under $27,000.

Standard comfort and convenience features include navigation with real-time traffic, news and weather updates, heated leather seats, automatic air conditioning, a MP3 compatible audio system, cruise control and a tilt steering wheel. The Grand Vitara’s high content level saves buyers the hassle of wading through myriad option packages at the dealership.

There is no destination charge, further simplifying the buying progress. Suzuki’s seven year/100,000 mile warranty is a bargain as well, and is fully transferable. Read the rest of this entry »