NEW FOR 2008:

Click image to enlarge Images courtesy: Suzuki

- Engine immobilizer, digital climate control display and remote fuel filler door release added

For 2008, the Suzuki Grand Vitara undergoes only minor changes.

Situated below the XL7 in the Suzuki line-up, the Grand Vitara uses a 2.7-litre V6. Transmission choices are a five-speed manual or optional five-speed automatic in the JA and JX trim lines, and the five-speed automatic in the JLX and JLX Leather trims. The JA uses a full-time all-wheel drive system, while the other lines use a four-mode, dual-range system with centre differential that can be locked into 4High or 4Low for off-road situations.

Features on the JA include 16-inch steel wheels, air conditioning, power windows, power locks with keyless entry, CD/MP3 stereo with steering wheel-mounted controls, tilt wheel, floor mats, height-adjustable driver's seat, 60/40 split-folding rear seat, overhead console, automatic headlamps, power mirrors, variable intermittent wipers, rear wiper, and hard spare tire half-case.

The JX adds 16-inch alloy wheels, SmartPass keyless entry and start system, cruise control, heated mirrors, fog lamps, roof rails, and full hard spare tire case.

The JLX adds 17-inch alloy wheels, six-CD/MP3 stereo, power sunroof, leather-wrapped steering wheel, and heated cloth seats.

The JLX Leather adds heated leather seats and garage door opener.

The Grand Vitara offers a smooth, comfortable ride, and while it is unibody construction, it contains an underlying ladder frame that makes it more capable off-road than many of its competitors in the segment. The four-mode system on the JX should prove popular with those who want to get to remote cottages or ski slopes, but who don't want to move up to a top-of-the-line package.