Faults:

Happy to report that to date, nothing has gone wrong with the car.

General Comments:

The car has done nothing but impress. Having never driven a Suzuki, I was skeptical regarding quality/durability, but so far I couldn't be happier. Friends and relatives have also passed the same comment.

The engine pulls strong past three grand, and highway overtaking is a breeze. I also tow a 600kg jet ski up and down beaches, and the Vitara handles it no problems; I am yet to use the low range transfer.

A recent 1200km trip to Broome, was both comfortable and enjoyable. Having three 12V points is a bonus, with the iPod, Engel fridge and satellite phone...

Faults:

My only complain is I was going to buy a camper trailer with a tow ball weight of 105 kgs, and I realise that the car only accept by manufactured specificacions 85 kgs.

General Comments:

Happy with the car overall, but I think the problem I mention above should be rectified because most camper trailers have a ball weight of 100 kgs or more. The previous Vitara is OK for 140 kgs.

Faults:

Developed a slight rattle in one of the exhaust heat shields, which just required tightening.

The standard rear shock don't seem to have any rebound damping in them. Fitting a good set of aftermarket shocks transforms the car and the handling becomes sharp and precise. It also gives them heaps more rear suspension articulation.

General Comments:

Compared to the Pajero I owned, the Vitara is extremely easy to work on and is very cheap to run.

The Grand Vitara handles extremely well and is very agile on a good twisty road.

The engine is very smooth and loves to rev.

They are extremely good on sand and snow because of their light weight.

There is heaps of stuff available to modify them and improve their off road ability.

It is a shame that a factory cruise control is not offered as an option, although there are plenty of aftermarket systems available.