1999 Suzuki Grand Vitara: Dynamic Styling, Attention to Detail
8 April 1998
All-New 1999 Suzuki Grand Vitara Brings Dynamic Styling And Attention to Detail to the Plentiful Small SUV Segment
1999 Grand Vitara Sets New Standards by Offering a Smarter,
More Powerful Package
NEW YORK, April 8 -- The all-new 1999 Suzuki Grand Vitara,
introduced at the New York International Automobile Show today, combines a
bold, aggressive new look with a more powerful engine, advanced suspension,
redesigned frame and refined interior -- taking expectations of the small
sport-utility segment to the next level.
The 1999 Grand Vitara represents a new evolution of Suzuki and was
designed to exceed the standards of the small SUV segment by offering a
dynamic new look, an abundance of technological advances and all the creature
comforts -- at a price below what you would expect in this class of SUV.
The refined ride, precise handling and maneuverability of the Grand Vitara
are that of a nimble, small SUV, but in a package that is more capable and
powerful than its competition.
"What Suzuki has done with the Grand Vitara is take the best attributes of
the small sport-utility market and add features the others don't offer --
namely more power," said Gary Anderson, vice president sales and marketing for
American Suzuki Motor Corporation's automotive division.
"We believe the result is a complete package offering more versatility and
options for the buyer," Anderson added. "We didn't just make a more powerful
small SUV -- we made a smarter one."
Realizing beauty isn't just skin deep, the Grand Vitara features an all-
new, 2.5-liter, 24-valve, 4-cam V6 engine that generates approximately 155
horsepower at 6,500 revolutions per minute and a best-in-class torque of
160 lb.-ft. at an easily accessible 4,000 rpm.
The new V6 engine features Suzuki's two-stage timing chain technology and
utilizes a 60-degree "V" design that delivers high output and low weight. It
also features an in-line mounted design that provides the best possible weight
distribution for excellent off-road handling.
Mated to this innovative V6 engine is a standard five-speed manual
transmission or an optional four-speed automatic transmission with overdrive
that features a lockup torque converter. In addition to delivering maximum
on-demand performance, it remains quite economical.
When equipped with a five-speed manual transmission, the four-wheel drive
Grand Vitara is expected to achieve 19 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the
highway.
Both Grand Vitara models benefit from a new body structure and chassis
design, both of which play key roles in the Grand Vitara's refined quality and
precise, responsive handling. The new rigid, high-tensile strength steel
ladder box frame, designed with comfort, safety and strength in mind --
features a smooth-riding 97.6 inch wheelbase.
The all-new chassis features a sophisticated, 5-link rear suspension that
uses coil springs and low pressure, gas-filled shock absorbers and a
redesigned MacPherson strut front suspension for superior ride and handling --
on- or off-road.
The Grand Vitara comes standard with power-assisted rack-and-pinion
steering and 16-inch wheels with oversize 235/65R16 all-season tires that have
a highway tread for smooth, refined performance on the road and are mud-and-
snow rated for extra grip in minimal traction conditions.
Aluminum alloy wheels and a four-sensor, three-channel anti-lock braking
system (ABS) are standard on both two- and four-wheel "+" models and available
as an option on the base models. Standard stopping power is provided by four-
wheel, power-assisted ventilated front discs, rear drum brakes and a new 7.5-
inch tandem brake booster that ensures effective braking with light pedal
pressure.
A Dynamic New Look
Design objectives for the Grand Vitara centered around creating a visually
appealing, versatile SUV with roominess and comfort that would prove to be
invaluable for daily use. The overall look is sporty, yet sophisticated,
stable and functional while occupying a dominant presence on the road.
The vehicle's wide track is enhanced by sport trim flared fenders, energy
absorbing bumpers and a torsion bar for a smooth ride and better steering
response. The Grand Vitara has 8 inches of ground clearance with a 32-degree
angle of approach and a 29.2-degree angle of departure. The vehicle's high
seating position and large glass area offer superior outward visibility in all
directions.
The dynamic styling of the Grand Vitara expresses a contemporary, clean
look with smooth curves and rounded features. The wedge-shaped design
features a steeply-sloped windshield that promotes a sleek and aerodynamic
stance which minimizes wind resistance. To further minimize wind noise, the
Grand Vitara has an advanced flush-surface design whereby the glass and metal
surfaces are joined with the smallest variance possible.
The front end of the Grand Vitara features large, multi-reflector
headlights and an all-new sophisticated chrome grille. The Grand Vitara's
body-side cladding and unique two-tone paint scheme create a look of rugged
elegance.
The Inside Stuff
With the flexibility to carry five passengers and 22.5 cubic feet of
cargo, the Grand Vitara is just as versatile as it is comfortable. The
abundance of interior space makes the all-new Grand Vitara an excellent choice
for any activity -- recreational or daily -- on- or off-road.
A full-flat rear lower seat configuration contributes to the Grand
Vitara's large cargo capacity. The comprehensive instrument panel houses
large meters and an ergonomic layout designed for easy operation and instant
monitoring of vehicle performance. The center console is offset toward the
driver making switches easily accessible. The driver position is optimized by
reducing the angle of the steering shaft and adding a new seven-position tilt-
steering wheel.
The interior design of the Grand Vitara is sophisticated and features a
smooth, refined look while eliminating any sharp interior edges. Entry and
exit are easy, and new bucket-style front seats incorporate mat-type springs
that provide greater lateral support during off-road excursions. Separate
levers activate the reclining and sliding mechanisms to quickly set optimum
seat position.
To further enhance drive comfort, the increased seat cushion angle
provides additional leg supports while increased side bolstering and seat back
cushioning provide improved upper body support. In addition to all the
standard features mentioned, the 1999 Grand Vitara also comes equipped with a
comprehensive list of amenities.
Standard features include a Micron-Air Filtration/Conditioning system with
removable pollen filter; power windows, mirrors and door locks; rear accessory
socket; variable intermittent windshield wipers with washer; high-quality
velour seats; full carpeting; AM/FM stereo cassette with four speakers; remote
keyless entry system and front and rear cupholders. Full instrumentation
includes tachometer, digital clock and easily accessible cruise control
switch.
Other touches found inside the Grand Vitara include map pockets in the
front and rear door liners; pockets on the front seatbacks; sun visor
extensions; overhead map lights; coinholder; sunglass holder and 18 different
storage compartments throughout the vehicle.
First-Rate Safety
Safety and security are enhanced in the 1999 Grand Vitara. The high-
strength cabin and high-tensile steel ladder-box frame help the Grand Vitara
meet worldwide dynamic side impact requirements and safety regulations for
occupant protection in frontal, side and rear impact collisions. All models
of the Grand Vitara come equipped with a long list of safety features. Three-
point ELR seatbelts with pretensioners and anchor-bolt height adjusters,
reinforced side impact beams and daytime running lights supplement the Grand
Vitara's exceptionally rigid body structure. Dual front SRS airbags and
impact-absorbing material in the upper trim of the front pillars help reduce
the possibility of head injuries in a collision.
Crush zones are built into the front and rear of the Grand Vitara's body-
on-frame construction to help provide protection in a front or rear impact
collision.
A four-sensor, three-channel anti-lock braking system (ABS) is standard on
both two- and four-wheel drive "+" models and available as an option on the
base models. Additional safety for cabin occupants is found in rear door
child safety locks and retractable sun visors. Driver safety is also enhanced
through the large glass area for improved visibility; a low-mounted spare
tire; side lights that provide greater peripheral vision; and an automatic
lighting system that converts daytime running lights to full beam as darkness
approaches.
The 1999 Grand Vitara offers a multitude of exterior combinations. Color
choices include Superior White, Silky Silver Metallic, Planet Gold Metallic
and four two-tone paint schemes: Bordeaux Red Metallic with Planet Gold
Metallic, Scuba Blue Metallic with Planet Gold Metallic, Grove Green Metallic
with Planet Gold Metallic and Saturn Black Metallic with Planet Gold Metallic.
Most of these colors can be ordered with a gray, high-quality velour cloth
interior.
The 1999 Grand Vitara is covered by Suzuki's 36-month/36,000-mile new
vehicle limited warranty and a 24-month/24,000-mile battery warranty.
Perforation due to corrosion is covered for 36 months with unlimited mileage.
The Automotive Division of American Suzuki Motor Corporation (ASMC), Brea,
Calif., was founded in 1985 by Suzuki Motor Corporation (SMC). ASMC markets
automobiles in the United States through a network of 300 automotive
dealerships in 49 states.
ASMC's parent company, Suzuki Motor Corporation, based in Hamamatsu,
Japan, is a diversified worldwide automobile manufacturer. Founded in 1920,
SMC has 135 distributors in 171 countries.
SOURCE American Suzuki Motor Corporation
