Value for money is a real selling point for the 2008 Suzuki Grand Vitara.
For the price of a similarly equipped four-cylinder compact SUV, the Grand Vitara offers a V-6.
Unfortunately, performance just isn’t on par with that of the V-6 Ford Escape, Jeep Liberty, or Toyota RAV4.
The Jeep Liberty has more torque and is the better choice for demanding off-roading or if you plan to tow a boat, while the RAV4, with its especially useful third row seat, is a top choice for those who plan to go mostly on road.
The Liberty’s interior is quite cramped, though.
The Sportage, RAV4, and Escape all benefit from carlike handling to bring more security to curvy roads.
Then there’s the Grand Vitara’s cumbersome spare tire on the back hatch, which handicaps cargo loading (and visibility, slightly); the RAV4 also follows this silly arrangement.