Grand Vitara 2009

[Rorro]

don't worry geevee, perhaps I didn't express myself very well and you certainly look like you know about the subject.

and... about the GV , when you look at them from the side, the rear wheels seems to be closer to the front edge of the wheel arc than from the rear. In the lifted GV is more noticeable. Hopefully suzuki will correct this in the 2009 model.

[pavarotti]

I took the '09 Luxury edition 3.2L V6 out for a test drive (known as the JLX model here in Canada):
The 3.2L V6 is quieter and smoother but pick-up seemed to be somewhat sluggish - about the same as my 2.7L '06 (hmmm!?). I expected better throttle response for 50 more horses (claims on this forum regarding increased curb weight affecting performance may hold some merit here). Brake response is improved with rear discs. Cabin is noticeably quieter. Ride quality is still "busy" (i.e. stiff). Steering response not as "tight" which makes for less "white knuckle" handling on highways. Fuel consumption gauge has been moved to the driver gauge display - the center stack display (with time, outside temperature, and fuel consumption indicators) is now replaced with a speaker grill. Steering wheel controls are illuminated. Canadian luxury edition does not include turn indicators on side mirrors.

Likes:
- Quiet & smooth V6 engine, improved braking, quieter cabin

Dislikes:
- Bumpy ride, sluggish throttle response from 3.2L V6

Wish list:
- Telescopic adjustment of steering column (for us tall people)
- More driver-side storage compartments (place to hold parking card, cell phone, etc)
- Hi-Lo settings for heated seats (without thermal shut-off sensor)
- Power seats with memory
- "In-dash" bluetooth navigation option for North-American edition
- Split rear tailgate (open rear window only in tight spaces)

Final word: Suzuki has finally "caught-up" to the competition with its 2009 model. Caught-up but not yet surpassed. The compact utility vehicle (CUV) segment is set to get much more competitive with many new CUV model introductions from other car companies in 2010. Economic pressures aside, the GV will likely remain a niche market "light" off-roader for the next few years until its "Kizashi" based replacement targets a more urban market.
My 2006 GV lease is set to expire in 2009. Will I purchase a new 2009 GV? Perhaps, but not likely. I'm betting on a much more exciting choice of sleekly styled, and very capable, 2010 CUV's from other car companies. Sorry Suzuki.


_pav

[qarban]

I found this unimpressive review about 2009 GV and I posted a short comment about their comments, hopefully you can comment too, thanks. Auto Examiner: 2009 Suzuki Grand Vitara, ain’t that grand

[pedward]

Who can help me. I am looking to buy headlight covers/guards such as on attached pictures

[GV Real SUV]

Hi pedward,

That GV is from Indonesia. Suzuki Indonesia's website have very unique GV accessories. maybe you can contact Suzuki Indonesia, or search for an Indonesian GV club.

Cheers,

GV real SUV

[GV Real SUV]

Hi qarban,

Kinda biased, but can't please everybody. The reviewer may be used to car-based SUV from Honda and Toyota, which have a smoother ride. Our GV, on the other hand, are built for 4x4.

My .02 cents - Suzuki HQ should pay close attention to those negative comments, most especially concerns from Suzuki owners.

Cheers,

GV real SUV

Originally Posted by qarban

I found this unimpressive review about 2009 GV and I posted a short comment about their comments, hopefully you can comment too, thanks. Auto Examiner: 2009 Suzuki Grand Vitara, ain’t that grand

[Ironrat]

Originally Posted by qarban

I found this unimpressive review about 2009 GV and I posted a short comment about their comments, hopefully you can comment too, thanks. Auto Examiner: 2009 Suzuki Grand Vitara, ain’t that grand

I had to post there. What was that woman was driving?, she knows dog poodoo about cars.

Please brothers enter that site and post your opinion as Kenmalta and I did.

[qarban]

Originally Posted by Ironrat

I had to post there. What was that woman was driving, she knows dog poodoo about cars.

Please brothers enter that site and post your opinion as Kenmalta and I did.

Nice job Ironrat

[jakey]

Can finally post pics of my purple GV. Wahoo! Nice sun today!

[Taras]

Wow! I haven't seen this colour before. Cool!