TIRED of the new-fangled crossover? Want an SUV that is a real sport-utility vehicle and not a jacked-up sedan pretending to be an SUV? Consider then the Suzuki Grand Vitara. The Vitara was one of the first models to define the SUV segment here almost 20 years ago. It later morphed into the Grand Vitara - a larger and more comfortable five-seater model. Now, there is a another version of it.

But if it looks familiar, that is because this body style was introduced three years. Surprisingly, it looks less dated than expected and is still ruggedly handsome. At the same time, it has been updated with a new grille, bigger alloy wheels, and most significantly a new 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine under the hood.

The earlier 2.0-litre unit is still available with the Grand Vitara but only as a two-wheel-drive model. The Grand Vitara 2.4, on the other hand, remains a full-fledged off-roader with permanent four-wheel-drive and low-range gears.

More interestingly, the 2.4 VVT (variable valve timing) engine is mated to a new 'open-type' centre differential system which varies the torque distribution to the front and rear wheels. Unlike the old 'fixed' system, the new centre differential sends the power only to the rear wheels under normal road conditions.

Apart from better fuel economy, this means the Grand Vitara 2.4 is also quieter than the old 2.0 4WD. The 2.4-litre engine itself has a balancer shaft integrated into the oil pump for more silent operation.

Together with added insulation on its monocoque body with the so-called built-in ladder frame, thicker glass windows and extra rubber seals, the car's noise levels have been dramatically reduced.

As an all-wheel-drive SUV with a raised driving position for better visibility, the Grand Vitara 2.4 offers a pleasant drive. Handling is neutral and its brakes reassuringly good. The digital information display in the instrument binnacle is new and it provides details such as the fuel consumption level and range.

With its good traction on wet roads and excellent off-road capability, the Grand Vitara is the classic SUV, complete with a spare tyre hanging from the tailgate. So unless you're looking for a soft-roader, it is the real deal.

SPEC

Suzuki Grand Vitara 4WD

Engine 2,393cc
Transmission 4-speed automatic
Max power 166 hp @ 6,000 rpm
Max torque 225 Nm @ 4,000 rpm
0-100 kmh 12.0 secs
Top speed 170 kmh
Price $81,000 (with COE)
Distributor Champion Motors
tel 6774-9773

This article was first published in The Business Times on Sept 20, 2008.