Suzuki Motor Corporation (SMC) said the new 2009 Grand Vitara has been designed to enhance the SUV's overall performance, looks and comfort.

The move is expected to further boost sales of the Grand Vitara, which has created a niche for itself in global markets with its excellent on-road handling; uniquely sporty, tough-looking exterior design; and outstanding off-road performance.

One of the significant changes to the Grand Vitara will be the newly-designed petrol engines; the latest version of the SUV will be powered by a choice of 2.4-litre four-cylinder and 3.2-litre V6 petrol engines to enhance performance.

Further, driving will be made quieter by a redesigned powertrain and new acoustic materials; off-road performance will be improved by hill hold control and hill descent control (applicable to the five-door vehicles with the 3.2-litre petrol engine only); and braking performance will be improved with the adoption of rear disc brakes.

The new Grand Vitara will also get a jazzier and tougher look with new designs for the front grille and bumper accentuating the sportier exterior.

In addition, sporty, on-road-oriented 17-inch and 18-inch aluminium alloy wheels, outside door mirrors with built-in turn signal lamps, and new body colours add to the SUV’s overall appeal.

'Ever since its launch, the Grand Vitara has maintained an impressive performance in markets around the world.

'The vehicle's overall performance both on and off road, elegant styling and superior comfort have been key factors that have attracted customers, and these are the very areas that we have focused on for the latest version.

'We are certain that customers in the Middle East market will appreciate the modifications incorporated in the new Grand Vitara, as Suzuki reaffirms its strategy of constantly enhancing the quality and performance of its vehicles in line with customer expectations,' said Takeo Fukuda, group leader, Middle East & Africa, Marketing Group (Automobile), Suzuki Motor Corporation.     

Other changes to the Grand Vitara, incorporated to maximise comfort and convenience, include, an information display integrated into the metre cluster to provide the driver with accurate vehicle information; a revised design for the air-conditioner control panel to improve operability; illumination added to the steering-wheel switches to improve visibility; an extension function for the sun visors and a slide function for the centreconsole armrest added to reduce driver and front-passenger fatigue; chrome-plated inside door openers and black wood-grain interior garnishes adopted for a stronger sense of sportiness in the cabin; and beige fabric seats and beige cabin trim, for five-door vehicles. - TradeArabia News Service