In the competitive segment of SUVs, the Suzuki Grand Vitara has long been a contender, blending practicality with off-road prowess. Kristian Harrison took the latest 2024 hybrid model for a cruise around Bahrain and found out how this enduring favourite has big ambitions.
The 2024 Grand Vitara proudly maintains Suzuki’s signature blend of ruggedness and refinement. Its exterior boasts a bold front grille flanked by sleek LED headlights, giving it a modern and assertive presence on the road. The sculpted lines and athletic stance hint at its off-road capabilities, while chrome accents add a touch of elegance. Despite its compact dimensions, the Grand Vitara exudes a sense of confidence and solidity.
Stepping inside the Grand Vitara, I was greeted by a roomy cabin that prioritises comfort and convenience. The seats are plush and supportive, providing ample comfort even on longer journeys. The dashboard layout is intuitive, with all controls within easy reach of the driver.
One of the highlights of the interior is the infotainment system, which features a responsive touchscreen interface and supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Navigation, entertainment and connectivity options are seamlessly integrated, enhancing the overall driving experience.
Under the bonnet, the 2024 Grand Vitara is powered by a 101bhp, four-cylinder engine which doesn’t pull up trees but is comfortable on the Kingdom’s busier roads when traffic is very stop-start. At speeds of under 40kmph, it runs on the battery for a very smooth and economical drive.
During my test drive through Bahrain’s diverse terrain, the Grand Vitara impressed with its composed handling and confident demeanour. The suspension strikes a fine balance between comfort and agility, smoothing out rough patches while maintaining precise control through corners. The optional all-wheel-drive system further enhances traction and stability, ensuring confidence-inspiring performance in all conditions.
True to its heritage, the Grand Vitara excels when the pavement ends. Its robust chassis, generous ground clearance and advanced off-road features make it a capable companion for outdoor adventures. Whether traversing rocky trails or forging through waterlogged sandy patches (a convenient obstacle granted by the recent downpours in Bahrain!), the Grand Vitara’s off-road prowess instils a sense of adventure and exploration.
Safety is paramount in the 2024 Grand Vitara, with a suite of advanced driver-assist technologies designed to keep occupants protected on the road. Features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist and automatic emergency braking provide an extra layer of confidence, helping to prevent accidents before they occur.
Despite its capable performance and rugged capabilities, the Grand Vitara remains impressively fuel-efficient, thanks to its advanced engine technology and aerodynamic design. During my time behind the wheel, I found the fuel economy to be competitive within its class, making it an economical choice for daily commuting or extended road trips.
In conclusion, the Suzuki Grand Vitara 2024 proves to be a worthy contender in the SUV segment. With its blend of stylish design, comfortable interior, capable performance and advanced features, it offers a compelling package for drivers seeking versatility and adventure. If you’re in the market for an affordable SUV that doesn’t compromise on style or substance, the Grand Vitara is definitely worth considering.
For more information, check out the Mohammed Jalal & Sons Suzuki Showroom in Khamis or call 17 700-800.