A long wheelbase told me the ride would be smooth and short overhangs and high ground clearance meant that trail-riding won't be a problem. If I wanted to get down-and-dirty and go where low gear and a locked differential is a necessity the easy-to-use panel switch told me I'd be safe. I could change from 4WD High to 4WD Low in a heartbeat and crawl down Mount Vesuvius... if only I knew how to get up there. A unit-body sitting on a truck-type chassis, the Grand Vitara, for all its luxury, remains an honest off-roader.
But like most people I prefer to stay on the pavement, in which case I could forget all that. Except when bouncing over bumps and potholes. And I truly appreciated something that appeals both on-road and off: a tight turning circle and steering with quick turn-in, meaning that when a sudden manouver is demanded, the Grand Vitara responds. Immediately. It also handles well through the corners.
That 184 hp and 4-speed auto may not be impressive but take it from me, if you hit the hot pedal the Grand Vitara responds well. It can pull a 3000 lb trailer with little effort and according to those who know is designed for easy-towing behind one of those, uh, mobile cottages. (Maybe I'm being a touch intolerant but if I were planning a moving vacation I'd rather be on the water. A Grand Vitara with a Hobie Cat on a trailer, maybe?) Assuming none of those, it impressed me as an everyday family car that could handle the weather if ever I (ugh) moved back to Ontario.
