Suzuki has a long heritage of building capable well-built small SUVs. The latest Grand Vitara looks expensive, turns on a dime, and has plenty of power to keep up in the fast lane.

Sleek and modern styling on the Luxury package is highlighted by body color bumpers, a honeycomb grille, wrap-around headlamps, 17” alloy wheels, body color door pulls, and enormous clear lens taillamps with chrome accents. The overall look reminds me of a Range Rover. Not bad company.

While the body looks the part of an upscale off-roader, the Grand Vitara’s interior is posh. Drivers will appreciate the huge white-lit speedometer and leather-wrapped three-spoke steering wheel. Heated leather seats are some of the best looking and most comfortable I’ve ever used. XM Satellite radio and a... // Daily Camera

Examiner.com (Enlarge photo)

When I love a vehicle, you can sense this in the first two or three sentences of my review. When I dislike a vehicle, well, I don't hold my tongue. The 2009 Grand Vitara will suit your transportation needs getting you from point A to point B but NOT comfortably or stylishly. Here’s real talk about this compact SUV….

First the good points. If you’re into off-roading and want a smaller vehicle, the Grand Vitara might satisfy your needs (although I can’t vouch for its off-roading capabilities). I should, however, pull your coattail and let you know that the vehicle’s ground clearance is only either 7.4 or 7.9 inches. The transmission warranty is first-rate, 7 years/100,000 miles including roadside assistance and a courtesy vehicle program. Pricing is also pretty competitive... // Examiner.com

Its a testament to the enduring appeal of Suzukis Grand Vitara that 2.4 million have been sold worldwide in the 20 years since the original model made its debut.

Here in the UK, we like it too. More than 160,000 have been sold, thanks to a fan club of private buyers wanting a good-looking compact SUV with off-road capability and comfort at a cheaper price.

The three-door and five-door Grand Vitara are almost in a sector of their own, providing near-premium class motoring at a price well below that of bigger-name rivals.

Both have been freshened up for 2009, and their 2.0-litre engines have been replaced by 2.4-litre units that provide smoother running and better fuel economy, yet match the previous CO2 emissions.

Suzuki has incorporated several new features to reduce engine... // The Press, York