Model tested: Suzuki Grand Vitara 1.9 DDiS SZ4 3-door
Price: £15,594
Date tested: September 2009
Road tester: Stuart Milne

Auto Trader Ten Point Test rating: 73%
After two decades, the Suzuki Grand Vitara is still going strong, finding favour with those looking for a cheap full-time 4x4 with genuine off-road credentials. Since the demise of the original Toyota RAV-4, the Vitara is the only three-door compact SUV on the market.

1. Looks
The Grand Vitara is starting to date against the latest crop of compact SUVs. If you need something small, the short wheelbase three-door is an excellent choice, particularly for city-dwellers.
7/10

2. Looks inside
Functional and sensibly laid out, the Vitara's cabin will please those seeking practicality, but it lacks the flair of class leaders in terms of design and the quality of materials used. Some of the plastics look and feel very dated.
7/10

3. Practicality
The short wheelbase means the three-door Grand Vitara is handy around town, and easy to park. The spare wheel on the tailgate is a hindrance but does increase boot space. The 184-litre boot isn't particularly big, although it expands to 516 litres.
7/10

4. Ride and Handling
Despite being a tall SUV, the Vitara's on-road manners are surprisingly good. There's less roll than we expected, although it's still evident, and plenty of grip with its full-time four-wheel drive system.
7/10

5. Performance
The 1.9-litre diesel produces 129bhp and 221lb/ft of pulling power to give a 12.8 second 0-62mph time and a top speed of 106mph.
7/10

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6. Running Costs
Unsurprisingly the 1.9 diesel is the most cost-effective in the range. It'll average 40.3mpg and emit 189g/km of CO2. There are SUVs that are cheaper to run, but few with real off-road credentials.
7/10

7. Reliability
Proven technology and a good reliability record mean there are few causes for concern. Read what owners think about the Suzuki Grand Vitara on Drive the Debate.
9/10

8. Safety
The Grand Vitara achieved good results in Euro NCAP crash testing and was awarded four stars. Standard safety kit includes ABS and a full complement of airbags.
7/10

9. Equipment
All models get remote central locking, six-CD changer, steering wheel audio controls, tinted glass, trip computer and roof rails. The SZ4 gets front fog lamps, 17-inch alloy wheels and a stereo upgrade. Range-topping SZ5 cars get privacy glass, electric sunroof, stereo upgrade, High Intensity Discharge headlights and 18-inch wheels.
7/10

10. X-Factor
Reliability through rugged engineering will appeal to some, while its three-door configuration is unique in the market and will add to the appeal.
8/10