Much improved exterior and interior styling has given SUV buyers something to think about. Maintaining the ruggedness, but adding bold yet modern design elements, Suzuki has breath new life into Grand Vitara, bringing it on-par with modern rivals such as Honda CR-V and Nissan X-Trail. Suzuki built Grand Vitara on a monocoque-cum-ladder frame chassis, providing added rigidity for capable off-roading. But the lack of four-wheel drive rules that out. But significant improvements in the on-road handling boost Grand Vitara's soft-roader credentials. In fact, strong grip levels and good body control, plus the accurate, well-weighted steering, mean Grand Vitara handles very well for an SUV. The ride is firmer than rivals', but is not harsh. Cabin refinement is one of Grand Vitara's weakest point; the rough engine note coupled with irritating road and wind noise batter away at occupants. The steering column is only tilt-adjustable, but the driver's seat offers seat-height adjustment. Seats are decently comfortable, while all-round visibility is excellent, aided by the elevated seating position. Controls are logically placed and clearly indicated for easy usage. In addition to the more attractive interior styling, the build and material quality has been paid much needed attention. Grand Vitara is closing the gap on its key rivals, apparent from the solid cabin assembly and well-chosen robust materials. Given Suzuki's reputation for building hardy cars, major mechanicals such as the engine and transmission should stand the test of time. Lighter than the previous 4WD version by over 60 kg , the 2WD Grand Vitara is faster and more frugal. But the 2.0-litre, with 138 bhp and 183 Nm, simply does not have enough grunt or refinement. The engine is loud and mechanically unrefined, and struggles to get up to speed. The four-speed automatic shifts through the ratios smoothly though. With ample room for both front and rear rows, Grand Vitara can seat five in comfort. The boot is also large in size, but the side-hinged door and rear seats that do not fold completely flat limit Grand Vitara's practicality. Grand Vitara is more frugal in 2WD form, but still can not match class-leader Honda CR-V in fuel economy. Servicing and repairs should be affordable, but Grand Vitara is not likely to fetch resale prices as well as Honda CR-V or Nissan X-Trail. Handsome on the outside and attractive on the inside, Grand Vitara is actually more than just good looks, it also offers sharp handling, ample room and good equipment count. All these before accounting for the massive price undercutting of key rivals Honda CR-V and Nissan X-Trail. Before, we would not recommend Grand Vitara considering the firm ride and lack of refinement, but the price difference means there is plenty of value for those who can live with its shortcomings. There is plenty of standard equipment including power windows, central door locking, keyless entry, electric side mirrors, automatic air-conditioning, roof rails, alarm system with immobiliser, front fog lamps, reverse sensor, 17" alloy wheels, steering wheel audio switches, and in-dash 6-CD tuner (MP3/WMA). Safety kit includes dual front SRS airbags, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA). Grand Vitara's carbon dioxide emission level is similar to Nissan X-Trail's, with Honda CR-V leading the way. Fully imported from Japan, Grand Vitara is more polluting compared to the locally assembled Honda CR-V and Nissan X-Trail.