New Car Review of the 2005 Suzuki Grand Vitara Compact Sport Utility Vehicle

Description: Compact Sport Utility Vehicle
Base MSRP Range: $18,399 - $22,599
Invoice Price Range: $17,479 - $21,469
Where built: Japan

This four-door sport-utility vehicle in the compact class conforms for off-road forays with a body of high stance featuring front and rear overhangs angled acutely to make approaches and departures easy when climbing over the rough stuff.

For traction on slippery trails, it packs an optional two-speed transfer case in the four-wheel-drive (4WD) device with shift-on-the-fly convenience. Power stems from a 2.5-liter V6 engine which hits 165-hp.

In the 2005 lineup, there are two trims, LX and EX. Cabin appointments range from air conditioning with automatic climate control to power windows and door locks and mirrors, cruise control, a CD deck in the dash with seven speakers, and a keyless remote entry system.