Hi guys, just a question, have you ever felt regretful after buying your GV?
renn_007
While we're certainly not 100% satisfied with it, we don't regret buying it. For our combination of needs, the GV had no competition when we bought it, and still the only alternative for us would be the off-road Patriot. Ignoring our specific needs (compact suv with low range), it is an excellent vehicle, reliable, and good value.
Agree with geevee, Suzuki satisfies my needs perfectly. It's a good compromise between an offroader and a family car.
Jeep, X-terra, etc. - good 4x4, but poor quality, design, and interior.
Rav4, CRV, etc. - good quality, comfortable, but poor 4x4.
Jeep, X-terra, etc. - good 4x4, but poor quality, design, and interior.
Rav4, CRV, etc. - good quality, comfortable, but poor 4x4.
Agree with Taras and Geevee. Here in my country others brand doesn't give us the package that we get with our GV´s. GV it's a good choice i´m rally happy with my GV 
...
...Just Recently purchased a 07 GV X-Sport Auto 5 SPD RWD.
I am 90% satisfied so far.
THE GOOD
The 2.7L V6 has good power. Fuel Eco is Fair (I get an average of 22mpg mixed city and Hwy.). Has good towing capacity for it's size (3000 Lbs). Other Compact SUVs of similar size only tow up to 1500 Lbs. This may be because the GV is rear wheel drive. Has lots of features for the price and the seats are firm and comfortable at least for me.
THE BAD
The engine is noisy. Has a loud whine on acceleration. Sounds like I'm driving an old truck. It drives like a truck, bumpy and harsh. The H27A Engine requires valve inspection every 22K Mi. Really! You'd think a modern Engine would not require this tune up procedure. Soundproofing is poor. I hear everything from Harley Davidsons to Bass Booming Stereo Systems. This could be considered a safety feature in that you will have no problem hearing emergency vehicles coming. There is a vibration in my dash when I am on course pavement and I have yet to hunt this down and it is annoying.
No Regrets; since I needed a new vehicle to replace my 10 year old Pontiac and The Suzuki GV was Cheap, Especially now in a recession, It was a good value for me.
I am 90% satisfied so far.
THE GOOD
The 2.7L V6 has good power. Fuel Eco is Fair (I get an average of 22mpg mixed city and Hwy.). Has good towing capacity for it's size (3000 Lbs). Other Compact SUVs of similar size only tow up to 1500 Lbs. This may be because the GV is rear wheel drive. Has lots of features for the price and the seats are firm and comfortable at least for me.
THE BAD
The engine is noisy. Has a loud whine on acceleration. Sounds like I'm driving an old truck. It drives like a truck, bumpy and harsh. The H27A Engine requires valve inspection every 22K Mi. Really! You'd think a modern Engine would not require this tune up procedure. Soundproofing is poor. I hear everything from Harley Davidsons to Bass Booming Stereo Systems. This could be considered a safety feature in that you will have no problem hearing emergency vehicles coming. There is a vibration in my dash when I am on course pavement and I have yet to hunt this down and it is annoying.
No Regrets; since I needed a new vehicle to replace my 10 year old Pontiac and The Suzuki GV was Cheap, Especially now in a recession, It was a good value for me.
I can speak from experience with owning both a 2007 Suzuki JB Type 2 Grand Vitara 5dr Auto 5sp 4wd 2.7iL V6 & my current one 2008 Suzuki JT MY09 Grand Vitara 3dr Auto 4sp 4wd 2.4iL.
I've always liked the Vitara's as they are built to do the job. Rav4's are just wannabe GV's
I admit my '07 GV was noisy but it doesn't worry me but my '08 is definately quieter. Suzuki do listen to customer complaints. My '08 GV has thicker glass & sound-proofing. The instrument & console switches are better though are familiar if you know what I mean. I've driven a couple of normal US cars a friend of mine imported out here several years ago & I found their suspensions far to spongy & soft for our environment. Stiffer suspension is the way to go.
The Randwick Suzuki dealer who sold me the '07 GV wasn't happy with my return visits back to them regarding faults. Personally had they done the job properly in the first place things would be okay. First was the window tint as 3 windows had white flecks stuck in them. They replaced it twice then ruined my driver door by scoring it with their blades. They used bondo on the plastic trim then sprayed it in silver but they didn't even do that properly. I made them in the end to replace the driver side interior trim. Then was the rattling noise coming from the console where the time & temp were located. I took it back so many times it was driving me nuts. At first they told me it was the airbag & that in all GV's they arent secure. That was a load of rubbish. They claimed they took it apart which they never did. The second time I went back they claimed they couldnt hear it. They were with me on the test drive & if I could hear it plain as day on a normal smooth road so they must have been deaf. They took it in a few times claiming that they fixed the problem but all they did was take the GV for a joy ride, grab everyones lunches & racked up 25kms the first time & 30kms the 2nd time. I got in contact with Suzuki Australia & told them the story. Within an hour of the call I was asked to go back & I was told they would solve the rattle. I left the GV with them for 2 days & still it wasn't fixed. Again I spoke to Suzuki Australia who then gave me the address of another dealer 50kms away from my house. I went there & they fixed the problem only by 95%. It was a cable that was hitting the heater box so they glued a piece of sponge which stopped most of the rattling. But there was a problem.... When putting back the dashboard, one of the service techs scratched it with his screwdriver & hoped I didn't notice. Lol you could spot it a mile away so I ordered them to replace the scratched part of the dash with a new piece. I stayed at the service centre from 7am until 5:30pm that day. This took a fair while to do but at least there's only a little rattle still. In total my '07 GV spent 3 weeks in service solving problems. I never went back to Randwick Suzuki ever again as they really weren't interested in dealing with customer complaints.
My '08 GV is faultless. The 2.4L engine runs pretty sweet & economical. I wished that Suzuki would have mated a 5sp Auto box to the engine & it would run even sweeter. The engine is new & modern My '94 & '97 Vitara's were faultless as well, so 3 out of 4 isn't too bad.
Apart from what I said about my '07 GV, all 4 Vitara's I've had have been good. At this time (in Oz) Suzuki GV's have no real competitor. The Rav4 is for posers who want to lower them & put on fancy fibreglass skirts on them.
In Australia we don't have the valve issues as they do in North America. I asked Autosports Suzuki service dept if they had any issues here which they said that they haven't had any engine or transmission problems. In Australia we have strict controls in accordance to our ADR (Australian Design Rules). Visit the site for further info: Australian Design Rules
Suzuki Vitara's & Grand Vitara's have been with me since 1994. It's rugged design & practicality for my needs suits me perfectly. Besides a couple of niggles they are the best compact SUV's on the road (& off-road).
Cheers & enjoy your GV's
I've always liked the Vitara's as they are built to do the job. Rav4's are just wannabe GV's
I admit my '07 GV was noisy but it doesn't worry me but my '08 is definately quieter. Suzuki do listen to customer complaints. My '08 GV has thicker glass & sound-proofing. The instrument & console switches are better though are familiar if you know what I mean. I've driven a couple of normal US cars a friend of mine imported out here several years ago & I found their suspensions far to spongy & soft for our environment. Stiffer suspension is the way to go.
The Randwick Suzuki dealer who sold me the '07 GV wasn't happy with my return visits back to them regarding faults. Personally had they done the job properly in the first place things would be okay. First was the window tint as 3 windows had white flecks stuck in them. They replaced it twice then ruined my driver door by scoring it with their blades. They used bondo on the plastic trim then sprayed it in silver but they didn't even do that properly. I made them in the end to replace the driver side interior trim. Then was the rattling noise coming from the console where the time & temp were located. I took it back so many times it was driving me nuts. At first they told me it was the airbag & that in all GV's they arent secure. That was a load of rubbish. They claimed they took it apart which they never did. The second time I went back they claimed they couldnt hear it. They were with me on the test drive & if I could hear it plain as day on a normal smooth road so they must have been deaf. They took it in a few times claiming that they fixed the problem but all they did was take the GV for a joy ride, grab everyones lunches & racked up 25kms the first time & 30kms the 2nd time. I got in contact with Suzuki Australia & told them the story. Within an hour of the call I was asked to go back & I was told they would solve the rattle. I left the GV with them for 2 days & still it wasn't fixed. Again I spoke to Suzuki Australia who then gave me the address of another dealer 50kms away from my house. I went there & they fixed the problem only by 95%. It was a cable that was hitting the heater box so they glued a piece of sponge which stopped most of the rattling. But there was a problem.... When putting back the dashboard, one of the service techs scratched it with his screwdriver & hoped I didn't notice. Lol you could spot it a mile away so I ordered them to replace the scratched part of the dash with a new piece. I stayed at the service centre from 7am until 5:30pm that day. This took a fair while to do but at least there's only a little rattle still. In total my '07 GV spent 3 weeks in service solving problems. I never went back to Randwick Suzuki ever again as they really weren't interested in dealing with customer complaints.
My '08 GV is faultless. The 2.4L engine runs pretty sweet & economical. I wished that Suzuki would have mated a 5sp Auto box to the engine & it would run even sweeter. The engine is new & modern My '94 & '97 Vitara's were faultless as well, so 3 out of 4 isn't too bad.
Apart from what I said about my '07 GV, all 4 Vitara's I've had have been good. At this time (in Oz) Suzuki GV's have no real competitor. The Rav4 is for posers who want to lower them & put on fancy fibreglass skirts on them.
In Australia we don't have the valve issues as they do in North America. I asked Autosports Suzuki service dept if they had any issues here which they said that they haven't had any engine or transmission problems. In Australia we have strict controls in accordance to our ADR (Australian Design Rules). Visit the site for further info: Australian Design Rules
Suzuki Vitara's & Grand Vitara's have been with me since 1994. It's rugged design & practicality for my needs suits me perfectly. Besides a couple of niggles they are the best compact SUV's on the road (& off-road).
Cheers & enjoy your GV's
I was glad I was able to get the 2.7 w/ a 5 speed. Unfortunately in the US you can't get the new 3.2 w/ a manual transmission. That would keep me from buying another one.
For what we do, the GV is a great choice. Better off road and a CRV or a RAV4, much cheaper and can actually carry more stuff inside when needed. While it rides a bit rougher than others, I definitely didn't feel that the motor was that much "less refined" than others.
For what we do, the GV is a great choice. Better off road and a CRV or a RAV4, much cheaper and can actually carry more stuff inside when needed. While it rides a bit rougher than others, I definitely didn't feel that the motor was that much "less refined" than others.
Hi all,
I have the 2.0 4x4 automatic. No regrets in the purchase. It has a nice design, and isn't common like the RAV and CRV.
Although the ride is not as smooth as the competition on-road, it shines when used off-road.
Cheers,
GV real SUV
I have the 2.0 4x4 automatic. No regrets in the purchase. It has a nice design, and isn't common like the RAV and CRV.
Although the ride is not as smooth as the competition on-road, it shines when used off-road.
Cheers,
GV real SUV
If there was a 3 car shootout between the Toyota Rav4, Honda CR-V & Suzuki Grand Vitara I know which one I want & it's pretty obvious.
GV's are reliable on-road & off-road which is fact. I've been through some hairy moments in all my Vitara's that the others simply would fail. Mud, floods, gravel, rocks & sand (haven't tried snow as we don't really get any out here) the Vitara's hold up even better than some of the larger 4x4's.
When was the last time you ever saw a snorkel attached to a CR-V on the road? The majority of Rav4's I've seen have been tarted up & lowered which defeats the purpose of having an SUV. Really who would ever lower an SUV?
If you want better on-road manners just buy a normal car. If you want something that can tackle different environments, buy a Suzuki GV.
GV's are reliable on-road & off-road which is fact. I've been through some hairy moments in all my Vitara's that the others simply would fail. Mud, floods, gravel, rocks & sand (haven't tried snow as we don't really get any out here) the Vitara's hold up even better than some of the larger 4x4's.
When was the last time you ever saw a snorkel attached to a CR-V on the road? The majority of Rav4's I've seen have been tarted up & lowered which defeats the purpose of having an SUV. Really who would ever lower an SUV?
If you want better on-road manners just buy a normal car. If you want something that can tackle different environments, buy a Suzuki GV.
Went in today to have a look at the 2009GV at the local dealer,before i stopped the engine the salesman was at the side of the door waiting to pounce.He asked if i was in for the new GV,he then took me over to one that was sitting at the side.The colour was similar to mine,as we are all aware of the recent changes to the GV a few things stuck out that i was not sure about.There is now a 2.4Lpetrol to replace my 2.0Lpetrol,he said that there was no difference in fuel consumption between engine sizes (mmmmmmmmm)also a slight change to the front end shape(i was'nt aware of that).
Apparently there is now thicker glass and better sound proofing all round,mind you i did like the tinted glass , full leather and sunroof that came as standard.
The price tag was £17,700 on the road
What do you guys think?
Do you think it was just salesmen "bull" regarding the fuel consumption?
Regards GV1888.
Apparently there is now thicker glass and better sound proofing all round,mind you i did like the tinted glass , full leather and sunroof that came as standard.
The price tag was £17,700 on the road
What do you guys think?
Do you think it was just salesmen "bull" regarding the fuel consumption?
Regards GV1888.
I recently sold my 2007 Suzuki JB Type 2 Grand Vitara 5dr Auto 5sp 4wd 2.7iL V6 to the dealer where I bought my 2008 Suzuki JT MY09 Grand Vitara 3dr Auto 4sp 4wd 2.4iL from.
Engines aside there is a huge difference in regards of cabin quietness. The glass is thicker. The cabin is more quiet. Slight but familiar changes with the centre console layout. The front bumper is slightly different. Seats are also slightly different (mainly cos it has air-bags fitted). Economy wise i went from a 2.7 V6 down to a 2.4 four cylinder engine. The 2.7 V6 was economical compared to other V6's in other classes. I took the 3.2 V6 for a spin to see the difference over the 2.7 & you can tell the difference straight away that the 3.2 is a better engine.
The JT MY09 GV version is only a slight update but it's how the JB Type 2 GV should have been & Suzuki did notice that buyers wanted a more economical engine. A 5sp Auto on the 2.4 four cylinder would have made it more economical but I'm sure there will be more model changes during the course of time before they change the design.
Sales people want to move stock quickly so you're in the right position to bargain for price & accessories. I certainly got a fantastic deal on on my 3dr with a ton of free accessories (free 5 spoke alloy wheels, tinted windows, metallic paint, Garmin Sav-nav, Alarm system, Paint protection & Nudge bar plus free compulsory 3rd party insurance, dealer delivery charges waived & registration). It was a far better deal than my '07 GV.
At the moment here in Australia for a 5dr GV 2.4L manual drive away price is AUD$29,990 or for the 3dr GV 2.4L manual drive away price AUD$24,990 (as of 24th Jan 2009) both with free alloys & 5yr warranty. If you haggle long enough, you can get other free extras as dealers want them out the door. Petrol prices as of 24th Jan 2009 are between AUD$1.12 - AUD$1.20 depending where you go in Sydney.
If you are worried about petrol prices & fuel economy, then buy a Toyota Yaris. The Suzuki GV is by far the most economical, practical vehicle out of all 4x4 classes. Try & get the GV fuel consumption out of a Toyota Landcruiser & see how you go? SUV's are noted for using more fuel than normal cars & that is fact.
The GV is at the right price for the right market for all the right reasons.
Engines aside there is a huge difference in regards of cabin quietness. The glass is thicker. The cabin is more quiet. Slight but familiar changes with the centre console layout. The front bumper is slightly different. Seats are also slightly different (mainly cos it has air-bags fitted). Economy wise i went from a 2.7 V6 down to a 2.4 four cylinder engine. The 2.7 V6 was economical compared to other V6's in other classes. I took the 3.2 V6 for a spin to see the difference over the 2.7 & you can tell the difference straight away that the 3.2 is a better engine.
The JT MY09 GV version is only a slight update but it's how the JB Type 2 GV should have been & Suzuki did notice that buyers wanted a more economical engine. A 5sp Auto on the 2.4 four cylinder would have made it more economical but I'm sure there will be more model changes during the course of time before they change the design.
Sales people want to move stock quickly so you're in the right position to bargain for price & accessories. I certainly got a fantastic deal on on my 3dr with a ton of free accessories (free 5 spoke alloy wheels, tinted windows, metallic paint, Garmin Sav-nav, Alarm system, Paint protection & Nudge bar plus free compulsory 3rd party insurance, dealer delivery charges waived & registration). It was a far better deal than my '07 GV.
At the moment here in Australia for a 5dr GV 2.4L manual drive away price is AUD$29,990 or for the 3dr GV 2.4L manual drive away price AUD$24,990 (as of 24th Jan 2009) both with free alloys & 5yr warranty. If you haggle long enough, you can get other free extras as dealers want them out the door. Petrol prices as of 24th Jan 2009 are between AUD$1.12 - AUD$1.20 depending where you go in Sydney.
If you are worried about petrol prices & fuel economy, then buy a Toyota Yaris. The Suzuki GV is by far the most economical, practical vehicle out of all 4x4 classes. Try & get the GV fuel consumption out of a Toyota Landcruiser & see how you go? SUV's are noted for using more fuel than normal cars & that is fact.
The GV is at the right price for the right market for all the right reasons.
-I agree completely on the RAV4, no use what so ever in the "bush"
-The GV might be a little "harsh", or truck-like to drive, and yes, it takes a little more fuel, than family cars, but, as you pointed out, those people better buy a Yaris
-I wanted the most torque per litre of fuel, so I bought the diesel with manual (actually no auto option for diesel here). Same price as the 2.0 petrol, but with more torque than the V6, and also with half the fuel :lol: I am sad for those countries, that have no diesel model on the market
-No regrets, what so ever! If I was buying a car now, I would still buy it smiling 5525km driven now, 0 faults, works like a clock!
-The GV might be a little "harsh", or truck-like to drive, and yes, it takes a little more fuel, than family cars, but, as you pointed out, those people better buy a Yaris
-I wanted the most torque per litre of fuel, so I bought the diesel with manual (actually no auto option for diesel here). Same price as the 2.0 petrol, but with more torque than the V6, and also with half the fuel :lol: I am sad for those countries, that have no diesel model on the market
-No regrets, what so ever! If I was buying a car now, I would still buy it smiling
5525km driven now, 0 faults, works like a clock!
Risky,
Cheers for the detailed reply,much appreciated information.Sounds like you struck gold with the accessories on your deal.I know theres always room for negotiation with salesmen but our guys would never go that far,we would be lucky to get a full tank of petrol from them. I'am stuck in limbo at the moment,not sure about trading it in as i've spent a lot on accessories sound system and new tyres etc.It's only just turned two years old with 29,000miles on the clock.
Regards,GV1888.
Cheers for the detailed reply,much appreciated information.Sounds like you struck gold with the accessories on your deal.I know theres always room for negotiation with salesmen but our guys would never go that far,we would be lucky to get a full tank of petrol from them. I'am stuck in limbo at the moment,not sure about trading it in as i've spent a lot on accessories sound system and new tyres etc.It's only just turned two years old with 29,000miles on the clock.
Regards,GV1888.
Hey GV1888
Being part Scottish myself I know the value of money lol. Better still I know a good value in a car which is no wonder I drive a GV!
My suggestion to you is go to 3 dealers & see what trade-in deal you can score. Haggling with sales people is pretty easy & the best thing to do is never give up while you're at the dealership. It's a buyers market as I said before & dealers will do what they have to do to move stock. Make sure you at the very least get the reverse sensors for free as they are a godsend on 5dr GV's.
When I bought all my other Vitara's I paid cash. Most dealers do prefer you to take a loan with their finance company as they get a retainer from them. Dealers of all marques are under pressure with the financial crisis to stay afloat as a lot of dealers are closing down (make sure you mention it during the course of the enquiry). With my new GV it was the case of that I had cash on me & they definately needed the sale. They were going to do everything they could for me to part with the cash.
You are in a good position now to purchase a new one. There are people out there who are willing to pay for a good 2nd hand GV but can't buy new. When you do walk into a dealership, make sure you are confident & don't slip up as the sales guy will find a weakness. If you don't get a good deal, just walk away as there are other dealerships out there who will want your business.
I purchased my '97 Vitara & my '07 GV from the same dealer. Both times I wasn't happy with the service which was why I went elsewhere for my new one. I saw them again when I was ready to buy a new one & they offered me a pathetic deal even though they told me that I was a prefered customer. I walked away only to have them call me 2 days later with another deal which was to pay only for the alarm & window tint. Unfortunately they were too late as at that time I got my new one on order. The sales guy from this dealer got pretty nasty with me over the phone & I told him that he had his chance & blew it. Then I hung up! Buyers aren't the idiots they used to be & these people tend to forget that.
See how much trade in you will get with the accessories. Otherwise, take them off & replace it with stock items. Sometimes accessories lose their value more than the car itself.
Cheers
Being part Scottish myself I know the value of money lol. Better still I know a good value in a car which is no wonder I drive a GV!
My suggestion to you is go to 3 dealers & see what trade-in deal you can score. Haggling with sales people is pretty easy & the best thing to do is never give up while you're at the dealership. It's a buyers market as I said before & dealers will do what they have to do to move stock. Make sure you at the very least get the reverse sensors for free as they are a godsend on 5dr GV's.
When I bought all my other Vitara's I paid cash. Most dealers do prefer you to take a loan with their finance company as they get a retainer from them. Dealers of all marques are under pressure with the financial crisis to stay afloat as a lot of dealers are closing down (make sure you mention it during the course of the enquiry). With my new GV it was the case of that I had cash on me & they definately needed the sale. They were going to do everything they could for me to part with the cash.
You are in a good position now to purchase a new one. There are people out there who are willing to pay for a good 2nd hand GV but can't buy new. When you do walk into a dealership, make sure you are confident & don't slip up as the sales guy will find a weakness. If you don't get a good deal, just walk away as there are other dealerships out there who will want your business.
I purchased my '97 Vitara & my '07 GV from the same dealer. Both times I wasn't happy with the service which was why I went elsewhere for my new one. I saw them again when I was ready to buy a new one & they offered me a pathetic deal even though they told me that I was a prefered customer. I walked away only to have them call me 2 days later with another deal which was to pay only for the alarm & window tint. Unfortunately they were too late as at that time I got my new one on order. The sales guy from this dealer got pretty nasty with me over the phone & I told him that he had his chance & blew it. Then I hung up! Buyers aren't the idiots they used to be & these people tend to forget that.
See how much trade in you will get with the accessories. Otherwise, take them off & replace it with stock items. Sometimes accessories lose their value more than the car itself.
Cheers
I have regretted that I bought my GV. In October 2005, the first consignment from Suzuki I should have waited a year so that the first children's diseases were over. Now I know better, one should never buy a car which has just been launched. I have had done much on Suzuki's warranty
I think that there is a workshop for some bills. 8000 us. U.S. dollars. Today, the car traveled 63,000 Km. And now there is only one error left, and it is the humnn at 80 km / h.
I hope that this forum has an idea of what it can be.
Otherwise, I am very happy with the car in spite of it, only a 2.0 L engine
Michael Petersen
I think that there is a workshop for some bills. 8000 us. U.S. dollars. Today, the car traveled 63,000 Km. And now there is only one error left, and it is the humnn at 80 km / h.
I hope that this forum has an idea of what it can be.
Otherwise, I am very happy with the car in spite of it, only a 2.0 L engine
Michael Petersen
Risky,
Cheers mate, BTW,I hope it's the good part of you that's Scottish :lol::lol::lol:
Just pulling your leg bud.
Take care,
Regards,GV1888.
Cheers mate, BTW,I hope it's the good part of you that's Scottish :lol::lol::lol:
Just pulling your leg bud.
Take care,
Regards,GV1888.
Only time will tell
Hello to all,
Its been less than 3 days since I bought a used 2006 GV. It has less than 53k miles on it and rides nice. There is one cause for concern and that is the tire wear issue. I have Goodyear Integrity tires on mine and am hoping that it won't have the same tire wear issues that people had w/ the stock Yokohama Geolanders. If such a tire wear occurs quicker than expected, which tire would you all recommend? I read so many complaints by people about this issue as well as the issue of people having their carpets burn as a result of transmission wiring problems and such (all things I have read on MSN.com auto reviews for the 2006 Suzuki Grand Vitara). Compared to Toyota, Honda, and Nissan I don't feel any immediate regret, but only time will tell. My family has had Toyotas for a long time and they have proven to be extremely reliable. I know for a fact in India that Marutis, aka Maruti-Suzukis, are very reliable and easy to maintain.
It seems that Suzuki can easily match the reliability of Toyota, Honda, and Nissan but you don't see too many on the roads here. What say you all on the issue? Looking forward to hear your responses.
Hello to all,
Its been less than 3 days since I bought a used 2006 GV. It has less than 53k miles on it and rides nice. There is one cause for concern and that is the tire wear issue. I have Goodyear Integrity tires on mine and am hoping that it won't have the same tire wear issues that people had w/ the stock Yokohama Geolanders. If such a tire wear occurs quicker than expected, which tire would you all recommend? I read so many complaints by people about this issue as well as the issue of people having their carpets burn as a result of transmission wiring problems and such (all things I have read on MSN.com auto reviews for the 2006 Suzuki Grand Vitara). Compared to Toyota, Honda, and Nissan I don't feel any immediate regret, but only time will tell. My family has had Toyotas for a long time and they have proven to be extremely reliable. I know for a fact in India that Marutis, aka Maruti-Suzukis, are very reliable and easy to maintain.
It seems that Suzuki can easily match the reliability of Toyota, Honda, and Nissan but you don't see too many on the roads here. What say you all on the issue? Looking forward to hear your responses.
Welcome sunrebel216!
It seems that some of the first batches of the 2006 GV had some issues with rear wheel alignment, carpet burn, etc. Suzuki seems to have addressed these problems.
Suzuki is a good brand, but probably the reason we don't see many is because the competition offer their SUV with more comfortable rides, based on car platforms.
The Suzuki really shines when used off-road. Testament to that are many off-road clubs using the Jimny, Samurai, Vitara and Grand Vitaras.
Enjoy your GV, it is a rugged truck that can handle terrain that would terrify the competition!:lol:
Cheers,
GV real SUV
It seems that some of the first batches of the 2006 GV had some issues with rear wheel alignment, carpet burn, etc. Suzuki seems to have addressed these problems.
Suzuki is a good brand, but probably the reason we don't see many is because the competition offer their SUV with more comfortable rides, based on car platforms.
The Suzuki really shines when used off-road. Testament to that are many off-road clubs using the Jimny, Samurai, Vitara and Grand Vitaras.
Enjoy your GV, it is a rugged truck that can handle terrain that would terrify the competition!:lol:
Cheers,
GV real SUV
Not sure if i regret it but I'm not sure i made the right decision.
I was wrong about a few things when i bought the car.
Since a vehicle is a necessity, i wanted a long term investment. Reliable and low cost. It seems reliable so far but it is not low cost.
It seems that Suzuki only cares about sales in Japan as they do not offer Chilton/Haynes manuals or many parts for private sale in USA (i.e. Belt tensioner pulley). The parts they do sell at the auto parts store are a tad bit higher and harder to find here in texas.
To boot, the filter is next to impossible to remove.
And the big one! The high cost valve inspection!
I bought it used at 40k miles, i need to find out if the last owner had the valves inspected and adjusted. I am lucky i found out about it since i dont have an OM.
I researched many diffrent car options for a month, if i would have dug a tad bit deeper, i would have not gotten my GV, even though it was almost 2k under blue book.
-jesse
I was wrong about a few things when i bought the car.
Since a vehicle is a necessity, i wanted a long term investment. Reliable and low cost. It seems reliable so far but it is not low cost.
It seems that Suzuki only cares about sales in Japan as they do not offer Chilton/Haynes manuals or many parts for private sale in USA (i.e. Belt tensioner pulley). The parts they do sell at the auto parts store are a tad bit higher and harder to find here in texas.
To boot, the filter is next to impossible to remove.
And the big one! The high cost valve inspection!
I bought it used at 40k miles, i need to find out if the last owner had the valves inspected and adjusted. I am lucky i found out about it since i dont have an OM.
I researched many diffrent car options for a month, if i would have dug a tad bit deeper, i would have not gotten my GV, even though it was almost 2k under blue book.
-jesse
Hello GV_REAL_SUV and Gat_76,
I appreciate your feedback. Yeah, you are right. I used to drive a RAV4 many years ago and it was nice. It had the trusted 2.0L early 90s Camry engine powering it and it was very reliable. It was a tough car as well. You know, GV_REAL_SUV, Suzuki does seem to show confidence as far as the powertrain warranty is concerned (7yr/100k miles, Stateside). Its in a way like Hyundai with their 10yr/100,000 mile warranty. People went from laughing at both brands to respecting them more as they offer better warranties. As far as getting parts, I have to agree with Gat_76, in the sense that since its not as popular as Toyota, Honda, Nissan, etc....... Im pretty sure parts will be expensive. While the city I live near has a Suzuki dealership, it is still quite a drive away.
I think the first things that really amazed me when I looked at the Grand Vitara is that amount of feature it has. I remember the old RAV4 I used to drive and it didn't have even half of these features (Smartpass, trip computer, 6 disc changer..... I mean these are amenities Toyota will charge and arm and leg for). I read a few topics about valve inspection and tire wear? Based on your experience, which would be the best brand tire to get? I have heard horror stories about the Yokohama Geolanders, but I don't plan on taking my GV off road :lol: but nonetheless, the rear wheel drive on this SUV will take some getting used to. Either way, based on content and features, Suzuki should be getting more props. I hope Suzuki can bring more cars to America.
Thank you all for your responses.
I appreciate your feedback. Yeah, you are right. I used to drive a RAV4 many years ago and it was nice. It had the trusted 2.0L early 90s Camry engine powering it and it was very reliable. It was a tough car as well. You know, GV_REAL_SUV, Suzuki does seem to show confidence as far as the powertrain warranty is concerned (7yr/100k miles, Stateside). Its in a way like Hyundai with their 10yr/100,000 mile warranty. People went from laughing at both brands to respecting them more as they offer better warranties. As far as getting parts, I have to agree with Gat_76, in the sense that since its not as popular as Toyota, Honda, Nissan, etc....... Im pretty sure parts will be expensive. While the city I live near has a Suzuki dealership, it is still quite a drive away.
I think the first things that really amazed me when I looked at the Grand Vitara is that amount of feature it has. I remember the old RAV4 I used to drive and it didn't have even half of these features (Smartpass, trip computer, 6 disc changer..... I mean these are amenities Toyota will charge and arm and leg for). I read a few topics about valve inspection and tire wear? Based on your experience, which would be the best brand tire to get? I have heard horror stories about the Yokohama Geolanders, but I don't plan on taking my GV off road :lol: but nonetheless, the rear wheel drive on this SUV will take some getting used to. Either way, based on content and features, Suzuki should be getting more props. I hope Suzuki can bring more cars to America.
Thank you all for your responses.
Hi sunrebel216,
Glad to help you out. Suzuki still has some catching up to do with Toyota and Honda, as those brands are well-known for reliability, resale value and comfort. Plus, many parts are available for their vehicles.
I agree with Gat_76 that Suzuki should have more parts available like the other Japanese brands. Seems that Suzuki it is a niche brand, and finding parts takes some time.
Regarding tires, some GV owners are unhappy with the stock OEM Yokohama Geolanders and Bridgestone Duelers H/T. Good tire brands are Pirelli, BF Goodrich, Cooper, Michelin, etc. It depends on your budget and tire design. There are threads here on tire changes.
Once my stock Bridgestone H/T tires wear out, I plan to purchase A/T tires to maximize my 4x4. I have to research on what tire brand is best for my needs.
Cheers,
GV real SUV
Glad to help you out. Suzuki still has some catching up to do with Toyota and Honda, as those brands are well-known for reliability, resale value and comfort. Plus, many parts are available for their vehicles.
I agree with Gat_76 that Suzuki should have more parts available like the other Japanese brands. Seems that Suzuki it is a niche brand, and finding parts takes some time.
Regarding tires, some GV owners are unhappy with the stock OEM Yokohama Geolanders and Bridgestone Duelers H/T. Good tire brands are Pirelli, BF Goodrich, Cooper, Michelin, etc. It depends on your budget and tire design. There are threads here on tire changes.
Once my stock Bridgestone H/T tires wear out, I plan to purchase A/T tires to maximize my 4x4. I have to research on what tire brand is best for my needs.
Cheers,
GV real SUV
Suzuki here in Oz really started advertising 3yrs ago & there have been more on the road than ever before.
Toyota recently here advertised their RAV4 as the 'original' SUV. Thats is definately a crock of crap. The Sierra/Vitara have been around here in Oz for ages. When the Vitara was released here back in '88 there was no advertising for it which was a shame. People who knew about 4x4 SUV's swore by them. The sales figures are never high here for Suzuki but there are now plans to change all that. Considering that Toyota & Mitsubishi spend a lot on advertising, you can understand why Suzuki is not thought of. Also you have to take in consideration with the media being biased to those brands who advertise the most generating revenue for them. Suzuki hardly advertised in previous years & no journo was going to write up how good they are without advertising revenue!
The Bridgestone Dueler H/T 687 OEM tyres on Aussie GV's are crap. You end up replacing them after 20-25K. If you are concerned with tyre wear, replace them with a brand that is trusted & will go the distance. My '97 Vitara went through 3 sets of tyres over a 10yr period. The OEM Bridgestones lasted 20K then I switched to Dunlops after that with no problem. Different environments require different tyres so be aware & take note of those in your region who know their tyres.
The valve problem: I've asked out here & my dealer service centre techs informed me that there is no valve problem. I have seen in posts here & other Suzuki forums about it but still nothing from Australia about it. Toyota Landcruisers for well over 20 years & still prevails today that they have brake wear problems.... customers still buy them!
Lol GV1888 The only good bit of me is what only the girls get to see matey :lol:
Cheers
Toyota recently here advertised their RAV4 as the 'original' SUV. Thats is definately a crock of crap. The Sierra/Vitara have been around here in Oz for ages. When the Vitara was released here back in '88 there was no advertising for it which was a shame. People who knew about 4x4 SUV's swore by them. The sales figures are never high here for Suzuki but there are now plans to change all that. Considering that Toyota & Mitsubishi spend a lot on advertising, you can understand why Suzuki is not thought of. Also you have to take in consideration with the media being biased to those brands who advertise the most generating revenue for them. Suzuki hardly advertised in previous years & no journo was going to write up how good they are without advertising revenue!
The Bridgestone Dueler H/T 687 OEM tyres on Aussie GV's are crap. You end up replacing them after 20-25K. If you are concerned with tyre wear, replace them with a brand that is trusted & will go the distance. My '97 Vitara went through 3 sets of tyres over a 10yr period. The OEM Bridgestones lasted 20K then I switched to Dunlops after that with no problem. Different environments require different tyres so be aware & take note of those in your region who know their tyres.
The valve problem: I've asked out here & my dealer service centre techs informed me that there is no valve problem. I have seen in posts here & other Suzuki forums about it but still nothing from Australia about it. Toyota Landcruisers for well over 20 years & still prevails today that they have brake wear problems.... customers still buy them!
Lol GV1888 The only good bit of me is what only the girls get to see matey :lol:
Cheers
Hi Guys... only great comments here...
I love my GV, only few complaints I have..
1. window switches not illuminated
2. only 1 window has auto open and only down. Most cars in europe have both front windows on auto up and down.
3. I have the diesel and the noise is invasive, but this seems to be fixed on later models
4. No auto lock option like on the BMW. Car locks once you reach 10km/h
very useful
Apart from that... fantastic car
I love my GV, only few complaints I have..
1. window switches not illuminated
2. only 1 window has auto open and only down. Most cars in europe have both front windows on auto up and down.
3. I have the diesel and the noise is invasive, but this seems to be fixed on later models
4. No auto lock option like on the BMW. Car locks once you reach 10km/h
very useful
Apart from that... fantastic car
I like my GV, its a 2 litre 5 speed manual, but the noisy second gear is really testing my patience with the car and with Suzuki.
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