Trail Test: 1999-2005 Suzuki Vitara 4x4 (Part 2)

Think Small, Live Large
Trail testing the Suzuki Vitara 4x4

Getting there
On the asphalt, the Vitara is nimble and peppy, but with only 127bhp on tap, not especially quick. But that's ok: not many 4x4's can return 33Mpg (8.3l/100Km). And with a 64 litre tank, the 4 cylinder Vitara should be able to travel upwards of 730 highway kilometres on one fill up. Not bad.

There's almost no body roll under normal driving conditions, and the drive is much sportier than any other 4x4 I've driven. (Notice I said 4x4: All-wheel drive cars such as the Rav4 or CRV aren't included in this category).

It still feels like a truck over bumps--which is a good thing--but with the new-for-this model power-assisted rack and pinion steering, it is uncannily responsive in the turns, be they gravel, dirt, or pavement. Purists might prefer the older model's circulating ball steering system which was tough and simple, but rack and pinion suits any vehicle that will probably spend 90% of its time on-road.

On the Trails
For many reasons the Vitara is a great choice for a daily-driver and regular off-roader. The smaller size and tight turning radius means trail manoeuvrability is excellent, and Suzuki's part-time four wheel drive system provides exceptional traction (with proper tires) in almost all conditions. Ground clearance and skid-plating could be better, but that's what the after-market (or good line-choosing) is for.

For this trail test, we headed up to the top of a local mountain to see how the 2.0 litre engine pulls and how the four wheel drive system performs in 4-Lo. Although the road was mostly unmaintained gravel, the incline was steep, loose, and very rocky in places. As expected, the Vitara pulled itself up without any complaints, as neither the low traction or altitude affected the truck.

But the going got a little too rough when I mistakingly found myself on an ATV trail. This can happen in a Vitara, as it inspires a lot of confidence as it claws its way along smaller trails. And since it's narrower that most 4x4's, it fits in to all kinds of tight spots.

Fortunately, when the Vitara can no longer go forward, it's easy to turn around and get back on track. Turns that would have taken spotters and multiple points in larger trucks were handled with nonchalant ease in the Vitara.

Suzuki Vitara Trail Test: Part I | Part III

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