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Suzuki Grand Vitara 2006 through 2008

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Comments

  • xostnotxostnot Member Posts: 232
    Back on March 30 msg 435, nramos76 posted:
    "Being an electrical design eng. by trade, I'm interested in developing a modification to enable the gas mileage meter to do an average reading versus instantaneous. Since I would need the electrical diagram from the Suzuki service manual, but can't justify purchasing the manual for this alone, I was wondering if anyone was kind enough to scan the diagram and email it to me? If I am able to develop a mod I would be more than happy to share it with the community here...
    Noel "

    After three months of Internet commerce adventures, I finally got my '06 GV factory service manual. It's quite a hefty thing, and has some good detail. HOWEVER, it has virtually nothing about the mileage display. About all it has is that the readout gets information from the ECM, presumably the fuel injector metering system. I imagine the processing to a readable format is done in the dash display assembly, rather than the ECM, and there's certainly nothing describing the innards of either, or how they're programmed.

    Presumably, the same signal could be fed into a different module to do the required processing, then fed back out to the same display. Taken further, you could use the fuel tank level sensor information, and the odometer sensor information, plus a clock, and combine these to give Distance to Empty and average fuel consumption for a trip. It would be easier to buy an aftermarket unit that plugs into the transmission diagnostic connector, but then you'd need to mount it somewhere.

    Sounds like Suzuki is going to fix this next year. The question is whether they're reprogramming the ECM to do so, or just the display. The display has a clock, and that's what's needed for averaging. The trouble is that if you can fix this by changing the display unit, it likely will be priced at $200-300 (for something as complex as a clock radio).
  • fury168fury168 Member Posts: 2
    Just picked up a Black Luxury GV at the end of April. I must say I love this GV. Got the front 2 windows tinted to match the back and had a light tint put on the sunroof. Can't believe it wasn't tinted already. Also had an autostarter put in it. The place where I had it installed was able to make it work through the Keyless entry fob by pressing the lock button 3 times. Works great and the range is 150 feet. The guys at the shop were very impressed with the GV. (first time they had seen an '06) They liked the styling and were blown away that it had keyless entry and start.
  • steverstever Guest Posts: 52,454
    Congrats Fury!

    Please post about your deal over in the Suzuki Vitara: Prices Paid & Buying Experience discussion. Thanks,

    Steve, Host
  • dclark2dclark2 Member Posts: 91
    "alking Engine size:
    I remember back in 1988 when driving my Suzuki Forza with the 1.1 3 cylinder engine.
    That little [non-permissible content removed] drove me to work and camping with my wife and two small children aged 4 and 2 years old.
    It was very slow at picking up speed but once there, it was a no problem cruising at 60-65mph in 5th gear.
    I had that car for five years and never had a problem.

    Now we are in 2006 and people are concerned that a 2.7 V6 engine may not be enough to pass on the HWY....WOW this is crazy LOL.
    If you need more power than that while keeping a good MPG (23-25), go and get the VUE V6 with the Honda 250HP engine and tranny.....that will take you places and probably at the same price as the suki."

    Back in 1988, the national speed limit was 55mph. Guess what? The speed limit can be 70-75 mph in some places.Driving in the year 2006 requires more than the power that cars had wheezing up to 55mpg back two decades ago.Yup,the Saturn has more power than the GV. The V6 Rav also has more power. The new Mazda has more power. Come to think of it, there's not a six cylinder powered suv that has the GV's combo of lowest power and worse mpg. That's the result of low tech. Even Suzuki knows that the GV motor is yesterjunk; that's why they built a new engine factory that will make GM designed vvt engines, engines that will give 25mpg and offer 250hp.
  • brmatthewbrmatthew Member Posts: 1
    I purchased an after market hitch, Draw-Tite, for my GV. The hitch was an easy bolt in however trying to wire the trailer lights has been a different story. The harness provided by Draw-Tite has a T bone connector with five prongs. They indicate it should plug into an outlet located in the jack compartment. I can't locate a outlet in this area and I think the instructions are for a pre 2006 Vitara. I have also spoken to several dealers and they have been little help two indicating there should be a outlet somewhere and one voting for hard wiring it. Bottom line, has anybody hooked up trailer lights on one of these and knows where the hook up is?? Any help appreciated.
  • budman3budman3 Member Posts: 187
    You are correct on the GV being the lowest power of all v-6 comparisons. The fuel mileage also isn't the greatest but I don't see any high numbers on any of them.
    The Saturn Vue is probably the best bet all the way around if you want a GM built vehicle other than the drivetrain.
    The GV is still the only one with a base price v-6 under $20k and has the best warranty.
    Expect to pay about $4,000 more for all that high tech hp other than the Vue.
    If GM is going to start putting motors in the GV, I hope they add an extended warranty.
  • xostnotxostnot Member Posts: 232
    How do you separate the mileage penalty of the GV's engine from the penalty exacted by "full-time AWD", the extra weight, and the shorter body? And after that separation is made, a fair comparison would factor in reliability. Only then could you determine if the cost of the extra gas due to the older engine is a worthwhile tradeoff compared to more expensive engines.

    A head gasket job at 8 years will erase any savings on gas. Depending on which vehicle might need such work.

    I have no idea what the answer is, but there's a good chance the outcome looks better than the ADVERTISED mileage ratings. I understand manufacturers have been known to fudge horsepower numbers also.
  • budman3budman3 Member Posts: 187
    I wasn't trying to do an exact scientific account of all factors endured in my official test and bs opinion.
    I was just stating that the GV is still the best priced bang for your buck suv.
    I just made another look at the Saturn Vue forums (again, nothing scientific or exact comparisons)and there were many people unhappy with the 22mpg they were getting versus the 28 mpg as stated by the sticker. It's also my guess that the Vue visits the dealership more often which will also decrease your mileage.
    My neighbor bought the Ford Escape hybrid and hates it. The hybrid part only works in slow traffic so the $37k price tag didn't pay off for his long trips.
    We just made a combined city/hwy trip to Las Vegas with the a/c on and I have to say I drove it hard so I could get to a casino and a free beer and got an exact 21mpg. That $4k I saved over getting an extra mpg was used for some fun.
    I doubt any suv out there comes close to their sticker mpg so that even further enforces my bs opinion of the extra expense of the high tech engine, although I would love to squeal the back tires easier.
    I'll be trading in my GV long before my warranty runs out. Anything can happen in the 8th year, or maybe not. Head gasket or whatever is just a crap shoot like anything else. Are the GVs known for that in the 8th year or 80k miles?
  • xostnotxostnot Member Posts: 232
    I agree absolutely with your view of the value of the new GV. And if the remarkable scarcity of problems with them continues, we'll be able to add another factor in its favour.
  • dclark2dclark2 Member Posts: 91
    "We just made a combined city/hwy trip to Las Vegas with the a/c on and I have to say I drove it hard so I could get to a casino and a free beer and got an exact 21mpg. That $4k I saved over getting an extra mpg was used for some fun."

    That is horrible, horrible mileage! I guess you might think that is great if your previous vehicle was a '72 Dodge Polara.
    But 21mpg? So, it has 185hp and only gets 21mpg, and you are bragging about it? That's just pathetic.
    I often drive to 'Vegas myself. In my '96 Impala SS (weighs 4400lbs, modified motor with 3.42 gears), I average 23-24 mpg. In my old Honda CRV, I averaged 26mpg. On long trips, my '06 GTO gets 26mpg. I top off the tank, divided the odometer number by gallons to come up with these figures; I don't guess.On my last trip to Vegas (via 15), with fully loaded car, a/c and an average speed of around 100mph, my TDI wagon got 36mpg. In my stable of a 400hp 4400 hotrodded sedan, a 400hp 6 speed '06 GTO and a '03 Jetta wagon TDI five speed, a 21 mpg Grand Vitara would be the gas hog of the bunch.
    You can claim that no suv matches the epa sticker all you want. If that helps you sleep at night, then so be it.I forgot what the epa sticker was on my CRV, but I do know that it easily got 26mpg. On my Jetta, the sticker said 50mpg, but heck, I have gotten 55mpg. With the price of gas, the difference between a vehicle that only gets 21 mpg and one that gets 26mpg, over a period of a few years, is huge.If you think your being logical, think again. How much gas did you burn up to get a "free" beer?
  • tidestertidester Member Posts: 10,059
    I have gotten 55mpg. With the price of gas, the difference between a vehicle that only gets 21 mpg and one that gets 26mpg, over a period of a few years, is huge.

    That works out to about 380 gallons difference or roughly $1,000 over 3 years.

    tidester, host
  • budman3budman3 Member Posts: 187
    I never said I was bragging. Just stating the facts of our experience with the GV. I'm very happy for you and your ego trip with your hot rods. You can go to any other suv forum and say the exact same thing. You're missing my point because you're so wrapped up in your plethora of high mileage hot rods. Who cares.
    There isn't a suv out there that would satisfy your needs in the mpg area. The GV may eat up more gas but it's still reasonably priced and fun to drive. Did you read "fun", try it sometime and we'll go get that almost "free" beer together in Vegas.
  • dclark2dclark2 Member Posts: 91
    "never said I was bragging. Just stating the facts of our experience with the GV. I'm very happy for you and your ego trip with your hot rods. You can go to any other suv forum and say the exact same thing. You're missing my point because you're so wrapped up in your plethora of high mileage hot rods. Who cares."

    I included my vehicles for comparison to show what a gas hog the GV is. "Ego trip with your hot rods"? What is that supposed to mean??? My '96 Impala has one of the largest trunks to ever grace an automobile (22'), lots of interior room and is widely recognized as the ultimate road trip car.Does that, and the the fact that it can get 26mpg make it less practical than a GV?

    "The GV may eat up more gas but it's still reasonably priced and fun to drive. Did you read "fun", try it sometime and we'll go get that almost "free" beer together in Vegas."

    Fun? I know what fun is, and driving around in a gas guzzling underpowered Suzuki around the city or on a long trip doesn't sound like much fun. My idea of fun is going on a weekend trip in my GTO.Try driving a car that with 400lbs of torque, 400 hp and can do a quarter mile in 12 seconds. Feel the g forces push you into the seat.Try taking a high speed turn in a car that feels like it is riding on a rail- that's fun. If you don't believe me, take a survey and asked them what they would think would be funner to take on a road trip (Grand Vitara, or a 6 speed '06 GTO). The GTO will take the fun factor every time (and get better mpg, too!).
    "There isn't a suv out there that would satisfy your needs in the mpg area. The GV may eat up more gas but it's still reasonably priced and fun to drive."
    The current CRV can get 27-28 mpg. Add larger interior space, much more cargo space and superior resale, yeah, I could be happy with that.
  • budman3budman3 Member Posts: 187
    We should start a new thread; GV vs GTO, now that's a close comparison. The next thing you'll tell us is that you paid less for it than a GV. Don't forget to factor in the price you paid for the GTO.
    Everyone buy a GTO, after all, it is the only vehicle that should be sold,period.
    "Fun" meant personally, not driving a car. In simple terms, lighten up.
    I noticed you bragging AGAIN about your GTO, yup, ego trip.
    "The current CRV can get 27-28mpg, so? It's ugly. It's more money. It's less horsepower/4cyl. Yup, your right again, that's why it gets more mpg. so go buy it or just go.
  • budman3budman3 Member Posts: 187
    OK, so the GV gets terrible mileage for being underpowered, but I'm questioning your facts on mpg.
    Your GTO is only rated at 21 mpg hwy and yet you get 26.
    Your Jetta is rated at 50 mpg and you get 55.
    Hmm, my free beer in Vegas, priceless.
    You should buy a GV, then it would get 29 mpg vs the 24 and we all would be happy.
  • dclark2dclark2 Member Posts: 91
    "Your GTO is only rated at 21 mpg hwy and yet you get 26."

    You are wrong on so many fronts. First, my GTO is rated at 25mpg on the highway. That's just the start...I have laid out the facts- if you choose to ignore them, then that is your choice.
  • tidestertidester Member Posts: 10,059
    The '06 GTO is rated at 16 city/25 highway - which would average out to almost 21 mpg in a 50-50 mix of city and highway driving. Naturally, YMMV as will your mix.

    tidester, host
  • pciro2180pciro2180 Member Posts: 43
    Maybe he is dreaming, must drive nothing but highway to get 26 MPG in his fantasy world of power cars. But isn't going an average of 100 MPH like he said earlier going to just kill gas mileage?? My Verona is rated 20/27 and I drive back and forth to work about 15 miles highway and 10 miles country road, speed limit 55MPH and I only get between 22 and 23MPG. I don't think I have ever seen a car get better gas mileage than the highway reading, we all know that those readings are under test conditions at the test facility.
  • pciro2180pciro2180 Member Posts: 43
    I also would much rather have a Suzuki Grand Vitara ( I am trading the Verona for one), which is made in Japan, and has a great track record for being a very strong motor, than buying a GM car that might or might not be very reliable. Look at the crap that GM Daewoo gave Suzuki (the Verona), and passed it off as a good engine, when it wasn't. GM is in trouble and they don't make cars like they used to, they are unreliable these days. One look at the GV vs. the Equinox ( Suzuki sells the body to GM), shows that the GV has a 2.7 liter 185 HP motor, and the Chevy has a 3.5L 185HP motor. This engine they put in this has the opportunity to have alot more HP, but the engine in the Equinox is a engine that is obsolete, so GM can no longer update it, just push them out as is and plop them into the car. this is another reason why GM in in trouble and thier sales have slowed so much, they don't know how to do anything except try to wow consumers with big HP cars like the GTO, or make cars like the malibu that have alot of flashy features (XM, movable pedals,fake alloy wheels, etc...). Two words makes all the sense in America these days for car sales....Buy Japanese!!
  • vitdeanvitdean Member Posts: 9
    To the Hottrodders excited about being thrown back in the seat with their gas guzzling cages that probably cost upwards of 30 large, and yes doing 12 second quarter miles, stay away from old farts like myself that drive one of those new "underpowered" Grand Vitara's. Cause' the day after you get yer warm fuzzy beating me to the next stoplight I'll be redeaming myself on my 1100 suzook that gets 50mpg all day long that I paid 3500 hundred bucks for. Thank You for your support.....
  • budman3budman3 Member Posts: 187
    I know that there are many factors and reviews on performance. I'm not sure how accurate 0 to 60 and 1/4 runs are in their tests.
    The GV runs 17 seconds and 82 mph in the 1/4 mile. Nothing to get real excited about, but fun.
    To be fair to the GTO, I picked the best run possible I could find with the 6 speed and it ran 13 seconds(slowest was 13.9) and 108 mph in the 1/4 mile. Very fast.
    I'm not sure where the 12 second quarter mile is, but that extra second is alot in a quarter mile. They say it's all in the driver. :D
    Thank you for your support....
  • xostnotxostnot Member Posts: 232
    Um, sorry to intrude on this informative discussion, but how did we end up comparing a new GV with a vintage GTO?

    We HAVE to avoid getting off the topic. I could comment on what I think about either participant rushing across the country to go gambling, but I sometimes know better. Car forums will always get people together who have little else in common.
  • tidestertidester Member Posts: 10,059
    I agree - we've had enough diversion here with the GTO. Anyone who wants to discuss it any further is invited to participate in the Pontiac GTO discussion.

    tidester, host
  • budman3budman3 Member Posts: 187
    My sub woofer went bad. Anyone else?

    Did my second oil change. Not so bad this time. Make sure the engine is cool when reaching for the oil filter. Just give it one turn and let some of the oil drain out. Then when you remove it, don't turn it upside down. Still a little messy but that's part of DIY.
  • budman3budman3 Member Posts: 187
    Vitara4me, any word yet on your lean issue?

    I'm still getting rust stains between my rear seats after being folded up. Can't figure that one out.

    Anyone out there? We had more to talk about with the GTO and Vegas. Just kidding, somebody say something.
  • norwoodsmnnorwoodsmn Member Posts: 168
    Whoa! Sounds like I haven't missed much recently, eh xostnot?

    Just returned from a seasonal pilgrimage to deep(er) in the distant Norwoods. Thereabouts, back in '01 I was instrumenal in convincing a friend to buy a new manual 4 cylinder Vitara. Well, they told two friends, who told two friends... Point being, twas perfect for economically bashing about there in Griz country, to reach all those stunning spots, so some of of their friends ended up buying 'em too. [please note Suzuki]

    Who are these folks? Well envision a "toy car park" deep in the woods, with four old Land Rover "parts hulks", (and one totally pristine antique one), an 80's Toyota Landcruiser wagon, (2nd generation), and even a VW syncro camper,
    all there in my buds stable, (plus the Vitara of course).
    A tough customer for Suzuki to please?, well what do you think? But for it's sheer practicality and relative fuel economy, again the little Vitara is loved amongst it's peers.

    But seems the Landcruiser wagon is in it's last days. So what to do? Well, what about what they won't do? First, sans the availability of a low range and manual trannie equipped Grand Vitara, plus the issues like a lack of skid plates, no avalibility of a "present day realities highly fuel efficient engine, (read: the euro diesel), well, sans a meaningful "new Grand Vitara" model lineup change, despite their warm regard for their Vitara, these knowledgeable folks wouldn't even consider another Suzuki 4wd. Isin't that just a bit too bad, or maybe more... [Suzuki]?

    Since last postin', an few highly interesting "cultural events" have occured. No, I missed the issue of Vanity Fair that had the undraped actresses thereon, but relevant to the past fuel economy postings, anyone else catch the May issue of same, the one entirely devoted to Preservation of the environment?, and it's #1 preeminence as THE issue on our planet today? #2 might be Dubbya's aparent epiphany re: vehicle mileage standards, or could it just be "the winds of November" prompting same due to the fall mid term congressional elections back home? Cultural events?, yep, I sure hope so.

    So where am I on the new GV today? Sans the diesel, in good conscience I just couldn't justify putting one on the road. Further, when I stop to think "what if" Suzuki had chosen to put it's marbles into creating the best New true fully off road capable 4 cylinder Vitara model, (besides just the Grand guzzler, well... I'm disillusioned, obviously. So I rephrase a past question here again, will Suzuki P.D.Q.please indicate some truly serious willingness
    "to get real" and consider bringing the diesel over here?

    Sans that, well, it's keep re-arrangin' those deck chairs, meethinks.

    Feelin real green, but not with envy....

    Norwoodsmn.
  • stevistevi Member Posts: 2
    Hi

    I am new here. I bought my Grand Vitara in April and I have 1150 miles on it. I noticed right away that a popping noise was coming from my subwoofer on some songs. I have the knob set in the middle and cannot imagine how it would sound set on the highest. My driver's seat also wiggles a little when I take a corner. Time for a checkup I guess.
  • budman3budman3 Member Posts: 187
    Welcome to the forum and GV ownership, stevi.
    That's the popping noise I was hearing. My daughter likes to bump up the boom. Still waiting for the part to come in.
    Haven't noticed any wiggle in the seat unless norwoodsman is writing another book. :confuse:
    Which model GV did you get?
  • rszaborszabo Member Posts: 13
    G'day from Australia. My wife and self have just purchased the Suzuki Grand Vitara Auto full 4WD and at this stage are extremely happy with it. Does anyone know where you can safely use a trolley hydraulic jack underneath this vehile and where to place the 4 chassis stands in order to get better working clearance to change the oil in the diff and engine? Also does anyone know the location of the oil filter and how to access it?

    Many thanks
    Ron from Downunder
  • budman3budman3 Member Posts: 187
    Howdy from Arizona, rszabo. I don't have the 4wd so I can't help with lifting points. I just use the crossmember in front of the engine for lifting and put stands under the lower A-frames.
    If you're facing the engine, the oil filter is on the right. You can only reach it from underneath. First remove the 6 retainers from the plastic pan on the bottom. Simply pry out the middle and remove the entire retainer. You will then find the oil drain plug. Let the engine cool before removing the plug or filter. The oil comes out fast and the filter is a bit messy to work with. You have to reach up high and touch engine parts to be able to spin off the filter. Turn the filter one turn and let some of the oil drain. When you remove the filter completely, don't turn it upside down. It's a tight fit. It sounds difficult but I'm trying to keep you from making an oily mess and burning yourself. Been there, done that. Hope that helps.
  • stevistevi Member Posts: 2
    Hi

    I bought the premium model in Silky Silver with full time 4WD. Are they replacing your subwoofer or are they fixing it somehow?

    Stevi
  • rszaborszabo Member Posts: 13
    Budman3 thanks very much mate for that useful info. If you lived here in Australia...I would buy you a beer or 2 or 3...

    Cheers

    Ron
  • budman3budman3 Member Posts: 187
    They will replace the subwoofer. They just made a quick listen to it and ordered the part. It was nice to just drive in without an appointment and they took care of it right away.
  • budman3budman3 Member Posts: 187
    Glad to help out. Free beer?! I'm on my way....
  • rszaborszabo Member Posts: 13
    Took our brand new suzuki grand vitara from our inland City (Canberra, Australia) down to the South Coast (beach). The trip involves going over a large mountain range. The GV loped along - when overtaking it had heaps of power. I cannot understand the criticisms of those whom say it has no power. The vehicle pulled up the mountains very easily - I noticed a new subaru couldnt keep up to us. Overall fuel consumption for 337km was 11.5Litres per 100kms over mostly steep roads. Ride is very smooth, car is very tight - steering is very direct, perhaps a little too direct. At this stage very happy with our vehicle. Does anyone know when the run in oil should be drained from the sump? Is it wise to replace running in oil with a top quality full synthetic oil?

    Cheers from Downunder
    Ron
  • xostnotxostnot Member Posts: 232
    Enjoyed reading the update. What engine do you have? The schedule might depend on the engine and location. And type of driving. I have no idea about the synthetic oil. I don't.

    The first oil change on our 2.7 V6 is scheduled at 3 months or 5000km, whichever comes first. I'm told that it might be good to do it at half that interval, since the first oil will have the most abrasive stuff in it. But I don't put enough mileage on my cars to worry about wearing the engines out, so I stayed with the official schedule.
  • rszaborszabo Member Posts: 13
    G'day Xostnot. Our Suzuki Grand Vitara 2006 has the standard suzuki 2.7Litre V6 engine. Mostly city driving with some photography/camping/fishing trips away in the bush/country. You have a good point about doing an early initial oil change. I have always done my own oil/filter changes as quite a few car workshops here are unreliable and shonky.

    Cheers
    Ron
  • budman3budman3 Member Posts: 187
    I agree with xostnot. I always do my first oil change early. We don't put many miles on any of our vehicles so it's mostly a time issue. I personaly don't see a significant advantage of synthetic oils unless it's in a high performance engine which may require it. Today's conventional oil is far superior from years past and if changed on regular intervals, your engine will live a long and happy life. I doubt you would see any major advantage in synthetic oil over the years. And the price of synthetic oil doesn't justify any of the advantages. Don't believe anyone that tells you that you can get 10 or 20,000 miles without changing synthetic oil. The filter still has to be changed and it can't filter out all the impurities left behind from an internal combustion engine.
    Just think of all the extra ale you could buy. :D
    G'day, rszabo.
  • rszaborszabo Member Posts: 13
    G'day Budman3. Good point. Yes oils are diluted by water vapor etc. I will look around for a good non synthetic oil that does not sludge up the motor. A mechanic in Oz told me to never use castrol oils here as they sludge up the engines. You sold me on your idea as soon as you mentioned the extra ales.

    Cheers mate
    Ron from Downunder
  • bj9996bj9996 Member Posts: 7
    Hello all,

    Greetings from Brunei...of Borneo! I am quite new to this forum. anyway, just would like to share some of the experiences which I have with the GV after driving it for more than 06months now.

    Only the 2litre inline 4 motor is available to us over here...so :cry: I tried to get the V6 variant but was told that it is not reaching our shores :( I paid about US$20k for an auto silky silver with leather seats with 17" alloy wheels.

    1) Also noticed the wiggley front seats which will make audible "click-clack" sounds when taking corners.

    2) Removed the spare tyre (but still having the full cover attached) due believe that its quite unnecessary to bring that weight along for my everyday drive....as we have road assistance service which we subscribed to which is available 24/7. This will also theoritically prolong the life of the rear gate hinges ;)

    3) Installed HID for the headlight...which is giving superb result due projector unit.

    4) Installed a rear/reversing parking sensor due the thick/fat rear pillar which is quite obstructing at times...which I learned the hard way!

    5) The overall driving feel/experience is very impressive due to very sturdy chassis and functional 4wd system...after trying it out on bumpy roads and on beaches.

    6) Dealer replaced the centre and rear differential oil for free after being told that the factory fluid are too thin for our tropical climate.

    7) One fine day, smoke came out from the a/c vents and then the a/c just not functional. It was discovered that the blower fan had a short circuit...which was taken care of by the dealer.

    8) Currently having quite audible noise coming from the engine bay...which was diagnosed as having a defective engine belt tensioner....common problem for most Suzukis as per the dealership's mechanics.

    Had clocked about 18k kms on the odometer to date.
  • rszaborszabo Member Posts: 13
    G'day from Australia. Firts 1000Km up on our Suzuki Grand Vitara auto 4WD V6. Drives as smooth as silk on the Freeway. No complaints about fuel consumption. For those people not happy with their fuel consumption do a google on "Fitch fuel economizer". This unit has undergone some pretty impressive scientific testing. The local distributor of this (owns his own motor workshop and uses the fitch, and has actually tested it on his dynamometer with resulting increase in HP and decreased fuel consumption) He now uses on all his vehicles. I am in no way affiliated in any way shape or form with this product. Another dealer for fitch was saying that there are serious moves about making the fitch fuel saver OEM on all new manufactured vehicles. Anyhow worth a look, even if does start some healthy debate on this forum. Our suzuki is as tight as a drum. No squeaks, rattles etc. It is so silent at idle that I thought I hadnt switched the starter key on. At this stage my wife and self are very impressed and happy with this vehicle.

    Cheers all
    Ron from Downunder

    Will have to send you blokes some decent beer from Australia. :)
  • budman3budman3 Member Posts: 187
    The Fitch fuel catalyst has some good write ups but I've always been skeptical about things like that. It would be a gamble to try one and you may end up with nothing. At least with gambling you may end up with more money some fun and of course, that free beer.
    I noticed there wasn't an application for the GV. At least not from the dealers in the USA.
    Glad to hear that you're happy with your GV. There's been some discussion on quality, power, etc., but when you consider the price of the GV, it's a darn good buy. I'm still waiting for the next long term test from Motorweek. The first 2 writeups were mostly positive.
    I'll send you my address for that decent beer. :shades:
  • norwoodsmnnorwoodsmn Member Posts: 168
    G'day from the wilds of Canada! Happy you're so happy, and really what's not to like about this vehicle, vs. the competition? So why [non-permissible content removed]? For yrs. truly, it's because of a lack of model/features diversity, with the intro of the new GV. For instance, why no LESS COMPLEX 4 cylinder, more fuel efficient, distinct "Vitara" model? Yes, we know a 4 cylinder engined new GV is available in other parts of the world, but I've wondered, (and no doubt you did too?), just how would it haul around all that weight dressed up in it's fancy new GV "clothing"? Probably not too well.....

    Here's what we do know: the euro diesel with stump pulling torque, (a real Outback rig mate!), gets 36 US mgp, city/highway COMBINED, yet it seems only fox hunters in merry olde England can have one. Pray do tell Suzuki, why the hell is that....?

    Further, we [now] know the new Suzuki SX-4 "crossover" all wheel drive, (a Toyota Matrix fighter, due out here at the end of summer), paradoxically has at least one highly desirable fuel economy enhancing feature that the new GV does not. Namely, the awd feature can be disengaged for two wheel drive operation only. Why not in the new GV? So really we all ought to care ALOT about the fuel economy of the new GV in many world markets, vs. how vastly much better it is RIGHT NOW (with the diesel. Also, why not care too while were at it, that they didn't give it a part time 4wd system? I care.....

    The [AN INCONVENIANT TRUTH] of the matter, is, much as we ALL basically like, (if not loved to the point of rage?, when any "deviant ideas" are posed about any aspect of the new GV), IS, we NEED some green new GV options, world wide, (if not a smaller basic "Vitara" model too),

    A. S. A. P.

    if Suzuki wishes to hold onto at least this writer's 4wd brand loyalty. Other options? Even the Jeep Liberty has now begun to offer a diesel engine option. Further, if you really want to get out there to tie them roo's and crocks down mate, afterall, the Toyota FJ cruiser would FAR more reliably get you there and back, (for the same initial price of admission), with a scant 1 mpg city/highway mileage penalty, EVEN WITH THAT GIGANTIC ENGINE UNDER THE HOOD!

    So just how does all this add up? I don't pretend to have all the answers, unlike at least one other poster to this site. Instead, I remain tuned in here to continue to try to see if the word GREEN might suddenly pop up on Suzuki's 4wd vehicles radar screen.....

    Norwoodsmn.

    ps: Qutoe of the day: "Read books. They can be good for the [open] mind." Nwdsm.
  • norwoodsmnnorwoodsmn Member Posts: 168
    PS: For comparison purposes:

    2006 Jeep Liberty Sport Diesel 4X4
    2.8L Common-Rail Diesel, 1-4 engine 295 lb-ft
    torque @ 1,800 RPM, (plus all the bells and whistles
    that are there on the new GV). Base model listed for the same price as the loaded new GV, PLUS in Imperial measurements:

    10.9L/100 km (26mpg) City; 9.5L/100km (33mpg) highway. However, the euro diesel "New GV" gets even better mileage.

    yrs. truly: Norwoodsmn.
  • budman3budman3 Member Posts: 187
    rszabo, you will notice that most of the criticisms come from individuals who don't actually own a GV and never will. It comes from READING too much about the GV and not really experiencing the joys and capabilities of the GV. I, too, am hoping for the perfect vehicle, but for now will enjoy what I HAVE.
    I can feel my front seat start to twitch now.
    p.s. quote of the day; drink beer, it loosens the soul.
  • rszaborszabo Member Posts: 13
    G'day Budman3 and Norwoodsmn from Australia. Prior to purchasing our V4 4WD Suzuki Grand Vitara I have had 3 toyota 4 cylinder pickups (all purchased new) my wife has her second toyota corolla. Surprisingly my last 2.7L 4 cylinder totoya pickup with only 10K on the clock was on par with the V6 Suzuki 4WD regarding fuel consumption. I have also noticed a definite decline in build quality of toyotas. I believe toyotas are now assembled in Thailand and South Africa, dont know whether this is the reason why. Diesel, here in Australia costs much more than petrol and diesel in Australia is of very poor quality. I was not impressed by the toyota Rav4, or the nissan Xtrail (notorious here for the ?transmission overheating in sand, and the motor cutting out until it cools down. I remain very impressed by our suzuki grand vitara. Having a beer or 2 for you budman3.

    Take care.

    Cheers
    Ron
  • manojmanoj Member Posts: 7
    I just bought the XSport Package 2006, and I feel the Ride is very BUMPY; giving the feeling of the entire road as if the Vitara has no Suspension in both front and rear ; its that bumpy? Does anyone have the same feel ? Is it bcoz the tire-pressure pre-set by factory is very high compared to recommended pressure ?

    Can it a alignment issue for making it so BUMPY??? Even on Free-way I can feel each and very small bump invisible to the eyes too!

    How many here gave got their Vitara Front and Rear Aligned ?
  • xostnotxostnot Member Posts: 232
    I've been critical of aspects of the new GV, and last time I looked, there's an '06 JLX-L in my garage. I would think a forum like this is exactly the sort of place where owners, prospective owners, and other interested parties would gather, not just to sing praises of the GV, but to discuss shortcomings and problems also. If we restricted ourselves to being satisfied with what we have, we'd still be living in caves.

    I think anyone researching whether to buy a GV is intelligent to take the criticism in the context of all the other information.

    I have to note the continuing virtual absence of significant problems with the new GV. At this rate, it should rack up some impressive reliability scores.

    Norwoodsman has tilled some fertile ground. (acutally, norwoodsman, I thought you'd gone off to buy an FJ) My understanding is that the biggest obstacle to selling diesels in North America is our dirty sulphur-laden diesel fuel. I imagine the diesel engines sold elsewhere in the world cannot be cost-effectively adapted to this garbage. I also understand that legislation is on the books to force the refiners to make cleaner diesel within a few years. Yawn. (and expect the cleaner stuff to cost more.) Meanwhile I wage my own personal war on the vast stupidity of the oil companies by minimizing how much I drive. It's not hard to do, and improves your quality of life.

    I have seen a rumour on cartalkcanada that the Liberty diesel was just discontinued. After making the mistake of buying a Chrysler product, I won't do that again, which is why we never considered the Liberty, diesel or not.

    The FJ is not a direct competitor to the GV. I doubt the real mileage will be as close to the GV's as Toyota claims. The back seat is not suitable for adults. "4 REAL doors good, 2 doors BAD" And comparably equipped it is very much more expensive than the GV. For some, it will be a better choice. Not me.

    The Rav4 sold in North America is made in Japan.

    Let's wait and see what Suzuki does with the GV for the '07 models. But I'm not expecting a diesel for North America until there's cleaner fuel. Hopefully they'll have a model just for norwoodsman!
  • xostnotxostnot Member Posts: 232
    I think it depends on what you're used to. I was used to a '91 Pathfinder, so the GV is fine. The suspension is relatively stiff. The upside is that you'll never bottom out, the car sits in balance at speed on undulating pavement and on corners, and it's nice for off-roading. Not everyone's cup of tea. It would have benefitted from shock absorbers with two stiffness settings, as the Pathfinder came equipped with. But, anything like that shows up in the price.

    Ours came with 29lb tire pressure, and it's supposed to be 32. An alignment won't help suspension stiffness, and ours has not needed an alignment. The 17" rims with correspondingly low profile tires are a major culprit in transmitting impacts from pavement breaks into the car. I really dislike Suzuki bundling the 17" rims with the low range.
  • budman3budman3 Member Posts: 187
    I will offer my opinion on this one and hopefully it will help you out.
    I agree with xostnot, the alignment shouldn't make a difference. When we drove our GV home, we also felt every bump. The tires had 45psi from the factory. We adjusted them to specs and all is good.
    The front "toe" was adjusted to correct the knife edging of the front tires.
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