Since its second generation, most fans know old Suzuki Vitara as Grand Vitara. Back in 1999, the crossover was enlarged. Bigger engine brought the prefix “Grand”. Now, after 20 years, we are seeing it again under the same badge. Well, the look of the upcoming 2019 Suzuki Grand Vitara is not the same, since the SUV entered the fourth generation in 2015. Now, it is time for a first bigger facelift.
The off-road vehicle comes out in many countries in the world. However, in different markets, fans will see it under various names. One of its synonyms during 30-year career was Escudo or Grand Escudo. It is used in Japan, while American customers could see Chevy Tracker or Pontiac Sunrunner. However, these last two are not available since the first generation.
The 2019 Suzuki Grand Vitara is going to suffer many changes. At first place, these are cosmetic and aesthetic modifications of the exterior. A bigger facelift will refresh the 4×4 off-road crossover. Under the hood, we don’t expect big moves. However, Suzuki might surprise us with some engines. No new units are on the way, but the company could bring one drivetrain from Australian market to Europe, for example.
All in all, fans of Suzuki Grand Vitara will be happy to see its favorite crossover again. On the other hand, enthusiasts would like to see more changes and updates. But, the 2019 Suzuki Grand Vitara is not going to be one of the most popular vehicles in the US, and demand is dictating its development and progress. However, the Japanese carmaker will deliver a reliable vehicle, especially for off-road adventures.
2019 Suzuki Grand Vitara Off-Road Capabilities
Right from its first edition, this crossover is building a reputation of an off-road crossover. Thanks to its engines, the 2019 Suzuki Grand Vitara will continue this process. A 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with 12 valves can deliver 122 horsepower. Also, it is capable to create 165 lb-ft (225 Nm) of torque. The engine is not impressive as the overall drive system. To complete it, Suzuki installs a 5-speed manual transmission and a full-time four-wheel drive. The same mode can use a four-speed automatic transmission as a power router. This configuration is different, but the output is pretty much the same.
Suspension and Brakes
On front wheels, we will find Macpherson strut suspensions and ventilated brake discs. On the other side, the 2019 Suzuki Grand Vitara is using the same brakes and Multi-Link suspension. Hydraulic power steering is a standard feature.
2019 Suzuki Grand Vitara Changes and Models
The 2019 Suzuki Grand Vitara is going to be available in two levels. Buyers will choose between 3-door Navigator and Sport models. Although both are offering very similar features, each of these is specific. Sport version is longer. Overall length is 4,500 mm (177 inches), and 3-door model is 18 (450 mm) inches shorter. Of course, the longer vehicle has larger wheels and wheelbase. Width and height are the same. Finally, cargo area in 2019 Suzuki Grand Vitara Sport SUV is two times larger.
Towing Capacity
The entry-level Navigator can tow up to 3,500 pounds (1,600 kg). Depending on transmission, Sport is topping this too. With the automatic gearbox, the 2019 Suzuki Grand Vitara can tow 3,750 pounds (100 kg more), and manual transmission adds 200 kg. Converted to pounds, maximum towing capacity reaches 4,000.
2019 Suzuki Grand Vitara Standard and Optional Accessories
The leather steering wheel is what every 2019 Suzuki Grand Vitara is going to have. Also, we can find power windows and cruise control as standard features. Climate control is digital, and on an LCD display driver can read all info about the vehicle. There are temperature gauge, details about fuel consumption, and drive range estimation.
Seats are trimmed by fabric. However, comfort is at a very high level. The power-adjustable seat is available only for the driver, while passengers’ buckets don’t have this function. Also, lumbar adjust is missing. Satellite navigation and touchscreen display are features worth of mentioning. The 2019 Suzuki Grand Vitara will offer them as standard equipment.
Safety
Another notable segment of the 2019 Suzuki Grand Vitara is its overall safety. Driver and passengers won’t lack any major feature that will provide security. Also, assist accessories are there to prevent collisions and crashes. Both Three-Door Navigator and Sport SUVs come with an immobilizer and airbags system including front, side, and curtains. Brakes assist and electronic brakeforce distribution are improved for 2019 Grand Vitara.
Vehicle stability control is a multifunctional feature that will boost both safety and off-road capability. Occupants will feel safe while not on the road. Also, on tough terrains, with a lot of bumps, this system soaks jumps and shakes, so the overall impression is much better than on older structures. In combination with traction control, this is a very helpful feature off and on the road.
2019 Suzuki Grand Vitara Release Date
The popularity of the 2019 Suzuki Grand Vitara in Australia and Europe will make the carmaker bring the crossover there first. Edition for the US will have to wait for a while. But, there is no certain information about its release date or debut either way. However, we can hear rumors speaking of next year. The 2019 Grand Vitara will be a little bit late because the Japanese company is paying more attention to some other models. They plan to launch the new generation of Suzuki Jimny.
Price
The 2019 Suzuki Grand Vitara will cost no more than $20,000. In Australia, it is $25,000, in UK 14,000 pounds, and in the rest of Europe 16,000 euro. Top of the class vehicle, Grand Vitara Sport, with all its features will bring a higher price. According to experts, it will be $8,000 more than the starting price for Three-Door crossover. So, in the US it is $28,000, Europe 22,000 euro, 19,000 pounds in the UK, and 35,000 AUD.