TO THE POINTWhat’s New? A larger and more powerful V6 engine, four-wheel independent suspension, and full-time/four-mode four-wheel drive Selling Points: Nice style and interior, adept off-roader, advanced safety equipment, great warranty Deal Breakers: Fuel mileage is not so great, V6 exhibits whine and occasional lack of punch Our Advice: Put the 2006 Suzuki Grand Vitara on your small SUV short list
Few small SUVs do as many things right as the 2006 Suzuki Grand Vitara, especially if you want an SUV that can be at once civilized and, at a moment’s notice, bawdy – in a dirty and muddy sort of way. Plus, the Grand Vitara is priced competitively, even at the base price where its standard 2.7-liter V6 engine outstrips its rivals. As if that’s not enough, it’s well equipped right out of the box and carries one of the best warranties going.