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<description><![CDATA[Suzuki]]></description>
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<lastBuildDate>Fri, 31 Jul 2009 08:58:39 GMT</lastBuildDate>
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<title><![CDATA[Suzuki unveils slick new saloon]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Car Enthusiast - The Suzuki Kizashi has been revealed as a rival for the established four-door family saloon market.]]></description>
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<pubDate>Fri, 31 Jul 2009 08:58:39 GMT</pubDate>
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<title><![CDATA[Suzuki Jimny SZ4 : SUZUKI'S OFF-ROAD OFFER]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Car And Driving - The Jimny from Suzuki has been around for a while but its off-road prowess gives it an edge over younger models. Steve Walker reports.The Jimny is Suzuki's miniature 4x4, a model with the dubious honour of being one of the longest serving cars currently on sale in the UK. It was launched in 1998 and it's battled on with only minor revisions through to the present day. So why would customers want to purchase a Jimny when there's plenty of other metal out there that's years younger? The answer lies in the dynamics of the 4x4 market and the simple fact that while other small 4x4s have evolved, growing softer and more car-like, the Jimny has stood still. There days, there's nothing else quite like it.Back in the days when Suzuki was designing the Jimny, off-road vehicles were used for driving off the road. They needed to be able to do this without getting damaged or stuck. Since then, such abilities have grown less and less important as the 4x4 has become a trendy lifestyle accessory for buyers who'd never dream of venturing away from the tarmac. The market has moved away from the Jimny but there are still people out there who want an affordable off-road vehicle and Suzuki's stalwart largely has them all to itself. The downside of the Jimny's undoubted ability when the going gets bumpy and grip becomes scarce is a rather choppy ride when it isn't. There's bounce in the heavy duty suspension over undulations in the road and it's not particularly cosseting over pot holes and other surface imperfections. The Jimny has a decent turning circle and good visibility for manoeuvring around town but it doesn't respond well to brisk cornering where the elevated ride height contributes to pronounced body lean. All will still be forgiven by those who use the Jimny in its native habitat. The sturdy 4x4 mechanicals and low range gearbox make it genuinely capable in the rough. Being comparatively light and narrow, it will even access areas where larger, more expensive off-road vehicles would struggle to tread."If you want a small 4x4 to produce the goods in the mud there's nothing better at this price or anything close to it"Power is supplied by a 1.3-litre petrol engine with 84bhp and 110Nm of torque. It's not the liveliest unit, with 0-60mph taking 14s and the Jimny running out of puff at just 84mph. It's also a little too vocal at higher revs, so it's at its best either off road or around town where higher speeds aren't necessary. A five speed manual gearbox comes as standard but a four-speed auto is also available. The tough ladder frame chassis and low range transfer box mark the Jimny out as a proper 4x4 from a time before the glut of soft-roaders and crossover models filled the market. Suzuki's Drive Select 4x4 system allows the driver to select high or low range 4x4 modes as well as a front-wheel drive setting while on the move at speeds of up to 62mph. The Jimny also has 190mm of ground clearance and is designed with its wheels pushed right out to each corner of the car, producing steep approach and departure angles. The Jimny may be small but it looks the part with its chunk dimensions and neat detailing. The interior is showing its age these days, but the robust construction that's common elsewhere in the Jimny is evident here too. There's not much adjustment in the driving position but this Suzuki sits you very upright and most people will be able to get comfortable behind the wheel. The same can't be said for the rear seats where legroom is very tight and there's very little boot to speak of behind. The best course of action is to settle for two seats, fold the rear bench down and use the area for your luggage. There's 113-litres with the seats up and 324 litres when they're lowered. The Jimny is available in JLX or SZ4 trim and for the £500 premium, the plush SZ4 models look like the way to go. All models come with a high specification including roof-rails, front fog lights, electric windows and mirrors, remote central locking, twin front airbags and ABS. The SZ4, however, includes air-conditioning which is worth the premium alone, as well as 15" alloy wheels, part leather trim, chrome door handles and privacy glass. There are other small 4x4s on the market. Many of them have a more modern feel and look to them but none are anything like as good off-road. The Jimny also looks attractively priced compared to most of them, considering that it has a full-time 4x4 system with a low-range gearbox. Even larger compact 4x4s like the Toyota RAV4, Ford Kuga and Vauxhall Antara will struggle to live with the Jimny in tricky off-road scenarios. The small petrol engine in the Jimny would lead you to expect rather better fuel economy than the 39mpg that it ultimately delivers. Again, the Suzuki is a victim of its age and the basic design that allows it to venture off the beaten track. Emissions are measured at 171g/km, pushing running costs up further, and with the optional automatic gearbox installed, owners can expect just 37mpg and 181g/km. At least the Jimny's tough and proven mechanicals should help keep repair costs down. The small 4x4 market has changed dramatically over recent and not so recent years but the Suzuki Jimny has been there to see it all. In context of the current market, the Jimny looks rather dated and serves as a good illustration of exactly why modern small 4x4 vehicles have gone soft. It asks owners to make sacrifices in terms of refinement, comfort and practicality in return for its impressive off-road ability. If you want a small 4x4 to produce the goods in the mud, however, there's nothing better at this price or anything close to it. There aren't too many choices afforded by the Jimny range but the SZ4 derivatives do make sense. For a modest premium over the JLX, they deliver alloy wheels, air-conditioning and part-leather trim. You can't say fairer than that. Since the off-roader look became fashionable in its own right, it's become very difficult to decipher which vehicles are 4x4s and which are not. It's more difficult still to identify models that you'd actually risk taking on an off road foray but everyone can rest assured that the Jimny is the real deal.Facts At A Glance CAR: Suzuki Jimny SZ4 PRICE: £10,990 - on the road INSURANCE GROUP: 7 CO2 EMISSIONS: 171g/km PERFORMANCE: Max Speed 87mph / 0-60mph 14.1s FUEL CONSUMPTION: (combined) 39.2mpg STANDARD SAFETY FEATURES: twin front airbags / ABS with EBD WILL IT FIT IN YOUR GARAGE?: Length/Width/Heightmm 3625/1600/1670]]></description>
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<pubDate>Fri, 24 Jul 2009 15:42:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<title><![CDATA[Suzuki Grand Vitara 2.0-Litre 16v : GRAND STANDING]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Car And Driving - The 2.0-litre petrol version of the latest Grand Vitara has a small but significant following. Andy Enright discovers whyFor a company that's the tenth biggest manufacturer of cars in the world, it's fair to say that Suzuki doesn't have a particularly strong brand image in this country. Ask most people about Suzuki cars and they'll conjure up images of rather odd, very small and wholly Japanese offerings, not really tailored to European tastes. That image is set to change. The launch of the latest generation Swift proved that Suzuki could develop a modern car that UK buyers would take to and that model has been rapidly followed by the Grand Vitara, a range that continues to do good business. The 2.0-litre petrol model remains a key variant in the Grand Vitara line-up.It's important to understand where Suzuki is aiming this model. At £17,000 for the single five-door model automatic on offer, it's much closer to the genuine cheapies like the Kia Sportage than the more established family favourites like the Nissan X-Trail and the Honda CR-V. Offering a generous level of equipment and clean styling without a bargain basement image, the Grand Vitara beings into question the wisdom of spending between £2,000 and £4,000 more for a Japanese rival. The Grand Vitara product line hasn't always been that easy to understand, but Suzuki have made things a little less opaque with the latest version of the car. There's a 1.6-litre petrol three-door car that opens the range and then there are the five-door models that kick off with this 138bhp 2.0-litre petrol unit. The five-door range has been fleshed out with a Renault-sourced 1.9-litre turbodiesel and a punchy petrol 2.4. "The Grand Vitara packs a lot of capability and desirability into £15,000's worth of compact 4x4"Suzuki are sensitive about standing accused of making just another `barbie truck' but look a little closer at the Grand Vitara and you'll see that it's made of surprisingly stern stuff. Unlike some rivals that sell front-wheel drive entry level versions of their `4x4s' in a bid to generate an eye-catching low sticker price, every Grand Vitara variant is properly all-wheel drive. By that we mean full-time four-wheel drive with a 47:53 front:rear torque split. There are also proper off-roader features like a locking centre differential and a low-range transfer `box. In that regard, you're getting the best of both worlds - a vehicle that looks urbane and socially acceptably but which can really roll its sleeves up when the going gets slippery. The 2.0-litre engine is eager to rev but will probably need a bit of a prodding if the Grand Vitara is loaded with people and gear, the 135lb/ft torque figure being bettered by most rivals. Whether you get on with the car will probably depend on how you plan to use it. If it'll most often be used one or two up with the occasional heavier use, the 2.0-litre will be fine. If heavier activities such as family or towing duties are called for, the turbo diesel version will probably be a better bet. It's good to see the Vitara brand being rehabilitated after the indignities it suffered at the hands of fashion in the early nineties. The first signs of a Vitara revival came in 1998 when an all-new model was introduced. Suzuki ditched the rather frivolous short-wheelbase Vitara in 2000 and sales of the more sensible Grand started to pick up, helped by a handsome three-door Grand Vitara model introduced in 2001. Seven years is a long time for a model to survive in a sector as fast moving as the compact 4x4 market, and even the introduction of a seven-seat version couldn't punt the Grand Vitara into the premier league of big sellers. What was needed was an all-new model and when the covers came off the show car at the 2005 Frankfurt Show, it was apparent that Suzuki had been paying attention to the current trends. The neat, minimal front end styling is very appealing, while the sculpted wheelarches and clever use of curves and angles in the car's glasshouse gives it a very contemporary look. Longer, taller and wider than its predecessor, it improves on its packaging still further, offering decent space for taller rear seat passengers. Suzuki claim there are no plans to replace the seven-seat variants of the old Vitara but both three and five-door five-seater models are offered. A side-hinged tailgate features a separately opening rear window section so you'll be able to sling a couple of bags in if space is tight in the multi-storey. The interior has been given a radical rethink in recent times. Gone are the acres of black or grey plastics as seen in the old Grand Vitara and in its place comes a far more stylish duotone finish to the dashboard. The three-spoke steering wheel is an attractive design and can be configured with wheel-mounted controls for the stereo. The centre console features clean design and effective ergonomics while the instrument binnacle contains the speedometer in the middle ringed by a metallic finish. The rev counter sits on one side and the minor dials on the other, creating an interesting three-dimensional effect. Soft touch plastics are used for the door tops and the grab handles and many of the oddments trays feature damped actions for their lids, helping to further reinforce the impression of quality. The Grand Vitara has been designed with utility in mind too. There are three 12v power outlets fitted as standard - one in the boot and two in the front of the cabin so that should put paid to arguments over whether the phone or the iPod gets priority. The side-opening tailgate also incorporates an interesting function whereby it will open to 65 degrees to an initial detent so that the luggage bay can still be accessed and traffic can still see the tail lights. Pull it again and it will swing open through the full 90-dgeree arc. It's hard to see how the Grand Vitara could be a lot better for the price Suzuki are charging. It incorporates all of the must-haves and quite a few features that are surprisingly welcome in a compact 4x4. It's not perfect - the engine is a little uncouth and the interior plastics could be a little better - but at this price, such complaints evaporate into churlishness. If you're looking for a budget compact 4x4, here's one to try.Facts At A Glance CAR: Suzuki Grand Vitara 2.0 5dr PRICE: £16,975 - on the road INSURANCE GROUP: 14 CO2 EMISSIONS: 220g/km PERFORMANCE: 0-60mph 12.2 seconds / Max Speed 109mph FUEL CONSUMPTION: (urban) 24.4mpg/ (extra urban) 37.2mpg / (combined) 31 mpg WILL IT FIT IN YOUR GARAGE?: Length/Width/Height, 4470/1810/1695mm]]></description>
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<pubDate>Thu, 09 Jul 2009 15:56:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<title><![CDATA[Suzuki Grand Vitara 1.9 DDIS 5-Door : GRAND DEE]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Car And Driving - The 1.9-litre diesel version of Suzuki's latest Grand Vitara 5-door shows that the company is determined to be taken seriously in the compact 4x4 sector. Steve Ghosley reportsMention Suzuki's Grand Vitara and many will conjure up visions of garishly decorated 4x4s of the kind that used to be favoured by those of questionable taste whose principal objective was to be noticed. Thankfully, those days are largely behind us now and the latest generation of Grand Vitara shows an unexpected maturity and refinement. For a model to have total credibility in this sector, however, it needs an impressive diesel in its line up. The Suzuki Grand Vitara 1.9-litre DDiS that we look at here could be just that model.It's good to see the Vitara brand being rehabilitated after the indignities it suffered at the hands of fashion in the early nineties. The first signs of a Vitara revival came in 1998 when an all-new model was introduced. Suzuki ditched the rather frivolous short-wheelbase Vitara in 2000 and sales of the more sensible Grand started to pick up, helped by a handsome three-door Grand Vitara model introduced in 2001. Seven years is a long time for a model to survive in a sector as fast moving as the compact 4x4 market, and even the introduction of a seven-seat version couldn't punt the Grand Vitara into the premier league of big sellers. What was needed was an all-new model and when the covers came off the show car at the 2005 Frankfurt Show, it was apparent that Suzuki had been paying attention to the current trends. The 1.9-litre diesel engine in the latest version is sourced from Renault and delivers a hefty 221 ft lbs of torque for reassuring operation both on and off road. This power makes the Grand Vitara a far more versatile proposition, with even enough power to pull a small caravan if required. The all-new permanent four-wheel drive system with differential lock and low range transfer `box is at the heart of this Grand Vitara's accomplished performance. The intercooled and turbocharged diesel can hurry this 4x4 to 62 mph in a lively 13.2 seconds and then go on to hit a top speed of 106mph. Yet despite all this `get up and go', the Grand Vitara 1.9-litre DDiS returns a very healthy 36.7 mpg on the combined cycle. Now available in both three and five-door guises with a manual gearbox, this diesel Vitara starts at around £18,000 as a five-door."This Grand Vitara has come of age and is now impossible to dismiss in the same way earlier models once were"Despite the reasonably low asking price, this model is generously equipped and features as standard climate control air-conditioning, front and rear electric windows, an integrated radio/CD player with steering wheel mounted audio controls, tinted glass, a tilt adjustable steering, reclining rear seats, heated and folding door mirrors, an immobiliser, alloy wheels and front fog lights. There is also the security of front, side and curtain airbags for front seat occupants, plus ESP and rear curtain airbags for the rear passengers. The neat, minimal front end styling is very appealing, while the sculpted wheel arches and clever use of curves and angles in the car's glasshouse gives it a very contemporary look. The Grand Vitara has a unique body construction featuring a lightweight monocoque design without a separate chassis. A built-in ladder frame provides a stiff platform which ensures that this SUV has the rigidity to match the most traditional of off roaders. Longer, taller and wider than its predecessor, it improves on its packaging still further, offering decent space for taller rear seat passengers. A side-hinged tailgate features a separately opening rear window section so you'll be able to sling a couple of bags in if space is tight in the multi-storey. The interior has been given a radical rethink. Gone are the acres of black or grey plastics as seen in the old Grand Vitara and in its place comes a far more stylish duotone finish to the dashboard. The three-spoke steering wheel is an attractive design and can be configured with wheel-mounted controls for the stereo. The centre console features clean design and effective ergonomics while the instrument binnacle contains the speedometer in the middle ringed by a metallic finish. The rev counter sits on one side and the minor dials on the other, creating an interesting three-dimensional effect. Soft touch plastics are used for the door tops and the grab handles and many of the oddments trays feature damped actions for their lids, helping to further reinforce the impression of quality. The Grand Vitara has been designed with utility in mind too. There are three 12v power outlets fitted as standard - one in the boot and two in the front of the cabin so that should put paid to arguments over whether the `phone or the iPod gets priority. The side-opening tailgate also incorporates an interesting function whereby it will open to 65 degrees to an initial detent so that the luggage bay can still be accessed and traffic can still see the tail lights. Pull it again and it will swing open through the full 90-degree arc. Suzuki's sticker price for the five-door Grand Vitara 1.9-litre DDiS is as much as £3,000 less than some of its nearest rivals. With this advantage and having upped its game in all departments, the Grand Vitara can now really begin to challenge the Japanese market leaders Nissan, Toyota and Honda. With clean, muscular styling, generous equipment levels and improved build quality, this compact 4x4 has come of age and is now impossible to dismiss in the same way earlier models once were.Facts At A Glance CAR: Suzuki Grand Vitara 1.9 DDiS 5-door PRICE: £17,975 - on the road INSURANCE GROUP: 14 CO2 EMISSIONS: 191g/km PERFORMANCE: 0-60mpg 13.2s / Max Speed 106mph FUEL CONSUMPTION: (combined) 36.7 mpg STANDARD SAFETY FEATURES: Twin front airbags, rear curtain airbags, ABS, ESP WILL IT FIT IN YOUR GARAGE?: Length/Width/Height, 4470/1810/1695mm]]></description>
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<pubDate>Thu, 09 Jul 2009 15:51:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<title><![CDATA[Suzuki Grand Vitara 1.9 DDiS SZ 3dr : GET YOUR VITS]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Car And Driving - Until the announcement of this 1.9-litre diesel version, the three-door Suzuki Grand Vitara was only offered with a weedy 1.6-litre petrol engine. The emergent combo packs quite a punch. Andy Enright reportsGiven that three-door compact 4x4s are all about fun and a certain `point and squirtability', it seemed a shame that Suzuki hobbled their Grand Vitara SZ three-door with a rather weak petrol engine. With the 1.9-litre diesel fitted, it's now a whole lot more enjoyable and capable. It may be small but it packs a punch.The Renault-sourced 1.9-litre diesel engine in this three-door model isn't short of muscle, delivering a hefty 221 ft lbs of torque for reassuring operation both on and off road. This power makes the Grand Vitara a far more versatile proposition, with even enough power to pull a small caravan if required. The permanent four-wheel drive system with centre differential lock and low range transfer `box is at the heart of this Grand Vitara's accomplished performance. The intercooled and turbocharged diesel can hurry this 4x4 to 62 mph in a lively 12.6 seconds and then go on to hit a top speed of 105mph. It's even more impressive in the midrange where the short Grand Vitara feels as if it has the mumbo to keep a hot hatch honest. Despite this verve, the Grand Vitara 1.9-litre DDiS returns a respectable 38.2 mpg on the combined cycle and will manage over 31mpg around town. Suzuki has a well-deserved reputation for producing 4x4s which actually perform rather well when the going gets steep and slippery. One would imagine that the 3-door Grand Vitara's key customer base would be formed by trendy urbanites attracted by the funky styling, active image and mild road manners that typify compact 4x4s. If, however, such a buyer decided to put the Suzuki's alleged offroad abilities to the test, they would probably be surprised. The Grand Vitara features a tough, built-in ladder frame chassis and independent suspension for all four wheels. The stiff underpinnings allow the permanent four-wheel-drive transmission system to extract maximum traction from the terrain while keeping the vehicle stable and the suspension (MacPherson struts at the front, multilink at the rear) helps to give a supple on road ride. The 3-door car can't offer the same range of offroad capabilities as the 5-door model which boasts a locking centre differential and a low-range gearbox. It does have a torque-sensing limited slip differential though, and the 4x4 system is constantly engaged - unlike on many `softroaders' which switch automatically between two and four wheel drive."Put off by compact diesel-powered 4x4s costing the wrong side of £20,000? Give this Suzuki a try. You might be pleasantly surprisedā¦"You'd expect the Grand Vitara to be bigger (or at least grander) than the original Vitara but it's more than that. There's virtually nothing of that car's DNA in today's product. What the current Grand Vitara is bigger than is the old Grand Vitara - the model that campaigned quietly from 1998 until this replacement arrived. We're looking at the 3-door models here and the current version is 10cm longer while adding 3cm in width over its predecessor. It's actually 4cm shorter as well but Suzuki are keen to point out that the integral ladder frame construction of this model allows lower floor heights than in the old car. There's no reduction in headroom and ground clearance is increased to 20cm. There's also a marked disparity between the bodystyles of the current Grand Vitara, with the 3-door giving 46cm in length away to the 5-door derivative. This indicates differences between the two versions that go beyond the choice of entry and exit points. There's definitely a more pugnacious feel to the 3-door car's styling, its thick B-pillar and squat, muscular stance contrasting with the longer lines of the larger car. Predictably, space is at more of a premium in the rear of the 3-door too. Occupants will find legroom significantly reduced but the possibility of seating two adults in the back remains a realistic one. The 3-door Grand Vitara features 50:50 split-folding rear seats, as opposed to the 60:40 set-up in the 5-door. With the release of a lever at the seat base, the backs fold down to increase luggage capacity at the expense of passenger accommodation. More space can then be freed-up relatively easily by means of a lever at the back which allows the whole seat to tumble forward. The interior of the Grand Vitara 3-door is a far cry from Suzuki models past. Gone are the acres of black or grey plastics as seen in the old Grand Vitara and in their place comes a far more stylish duotone finish to the dashboard. The three-spoke steering wheel is an attractive design and can be configured with wheel-mounted controls for the stereo. The centre console features clean detailing and effective ergonomics while the instrument binnacle is comprised of the speedometer in the middle ringed by a metallic finish. The rev counter sits on one side and the minor dials on the other, creating an interesting three-dimensional effect. Grand Vitara three-door buyers get electric front windows, climate control air-conditioning, front, side and curtain airbags, ABS with EBD, ESP and a CD stereo. There's also heated and folding electric door mirrors, alloy wheels and front fog lamps. Front, side and curtain airbags protect front seat occupants while those in the rear benefit from curtain bags too. With a combined economy figure of over 38mpg, the Suzuki Grand Vitara 1.9 DDis three-door isn't going to attract the ire of anti-SUV fundamentalists. Or rather it shouldn't. A carbon dioxide emissions figure of 195g/km isn't the end of the world (sorry) and the very low upfront price and perceived benefit of the diesel engine should prop up residuals very nicely. With the caveat that it's clearly not the choice for a sizeable family, there's really not a whole lot wrong with the Suzuki Grand Vitara 1.9 DDiS SZ three-door. It's good fun in a rather unsophisticated fashion and some of it feels a little built down to a price, but that can be excused when the price is just £14,999 and a great diesel engine is thrown into the package. It's well equipped with convenience features, festooned with airbags and looks the part with its chunkily aggressive stance and respectable off-road ability. If you were thinking of a diesel Toyota RAV4 but were put off by prices that start the wrong side of £20k, give the Suzuki a try. You might well be very pleasantly surprised.Facts At A Glance CAR: Suzuki Grand Vitara 1.9DDiS SZ three-door PRICE: £16,200 - on the road INSURANCE GROUP: 14 CO2 EMISSIONS: 183g/km PERFORMANCE: 0-60mph 12.3s / Max Speed 105mph FUEL CONSUMPTION: (urban) 31.4mpg/ (extra urban) 43.5mpg/ (combined) 38.2mpg STANDARD SAFETY FEATURES: ABS, twin front, side and four curtain airbags WILL IT FIT IN YOUR GARAGE?: length/width/heightmm 4005/1180/1695mm]]></description>
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<pubDate>Thu, 09 Jul 2009 15:48:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<title><![CDATA[Suzuki Grand Vitara SZ Range : BABY GRAND]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Car And Driving - Prepare to have your preconceptions regarding Suzuki 4x4 vehicles dashed by the Grand Vitara SZ 3-Door. Steve Walker reportsā¦If the words three-door and Vitara in close proximity still bring you to mind of the huge tyres and outlandishly flared wheelarches that adorned the low-riding original Vitara in the early 90s, it's definitely time you reappraised Suzuki's compact 4x4 offerings. With requisite blaring stereo and a uniform for drivers comprised of backwards baseball cap, wrap-around sunglasses and sports vest, these fashion victim vehicles could be credited as forerunners of today's lifestyle 4x4s. With hindsight, however, they just seem irredeemably naff. Undaunted by the embarrassing wardrobe faux pas of its youth, Suzuki have persevered with the Vitara and in today's SZ 3-door Grand Vitara guise, it has matured in some style.You'd expect the Grand Vitara to be bigger (or at least grander) than the original Vitara but it's more than that. There's virtually nothing of that car's DNA in today's product. What the current Grand Vitara is bigger than is the old Grand Vitara - the model that campaigned quietly from 1998 until this replacement arrived. We're looking at the 3-door SZ models here and the current version is 10cm longer while adding 3cm in width over its predecessor. It's actually 4cm shorter as well but Suzuki are keen to point out that the integral ladder frame construction of this model allows lower floor heights than in the old car. There's no reduction in headroom and ground clearance is increased to 20cm. There's also a marked disparity between the bodystyles of the current Grand Vitara, with the SZ 3-door giving 46cm in length away to the 5-door derivative. This indicates differences between the two versions that go beyond the choice of entry and exit points. There's definitely a more pugnacious feel to the 3-door car's styling, its thick B-pillar and squat, muscular stance contrasting with the longer lines of the larger car. Predictably, space is at more of a premium in the rear of the 3-door too."Suzuki have a well-deserved reputation for producing 4x4s which actually perform rather well when the going gets steep and slippery"Occupants will find legroom significantly reduced but the possibility of seating two adults in the back remains a realistic one. The 3-door SZ Grand Vitara features 50:50 split-folding rear seats, as opposed to the 60:40 set-up in the 5-door. With the release of a lever at the seat base, the backs fold down to increase luggage capacity at the expense of passenger accommodation. More space can then be freed-up relatively easily by means of a lever at the back which allows the whole seat to tumble forward. All of the 3-door SZ Grand Vitaras come with the same engine options as those offered on the five-door. These include a 1.6-litre VVT petrol unit, a 166bhp 2.4-litre petrol option and a 1.9-litre diesel. The 1.6 is a competent but fairly unremarkable offering. This 105bhp engine is typical of variable valve timing petrol units in that it develops its peak power at a relatively high 5,900rpm. Peak torque of 107lb/ft is produced at 4,100rpm and consequentially, you do have to rev the engine quite hard to get the best out of it. This isn't a powerplant that you'd mark out as particularly well-suited to the rough stuff (and seasoned offroad practitioners will opt for the low down grunt of the diesel) but on the road, the 16-valve unit is refined and peppy. Combined fuel consumption of 32.5mpg is just about what you'd expect from a 1.6-litre petrol powered compact 4x4 but that will drop-off considerably if you hitch on a 1,600kg trailer which would equal the Grand Vitara 3-door's impressive maximum towing weight. Opt for the diesel if you can find the extra. Suzuki have a well-deserved reputation for producing 4x4s which actually perform rather well when the going gets steep and slippery. One would imagine that the 3-door Grand Vitara's key customer base would be formed by trendy urbanites attracted by the funky styling, active image and mild road manners that typify compact 4x4s. If, however, such a buyer decided to put the Suzuki's alleged offroad abilities to the test, they would probably be surprised. The Grand Vitara features a tough, built-in ladder frame chassis and independent suspension for all four wheels. The stiff underpinnings allow the permanent four-wheel-drive transmission system to extract maximum traction from the terrain while keeping the vehicle stable and the suspension (MacPherson struts at the front, multilink at the rear) helps to give a supple on road ride. The 3-door car can't offer the same range of offroad capabilities as the 5-door model which boasts a locking centre differential and a low-range gearbox. It does have a torque-sensing limited slip differential though, and the 4x4 system is constantly engaged - unlike on many `softroaders' which switch automatically between two and four wheel drive. Recent models get minor tweaks to their outside styling aimed at offering up a more sculpted and muscular appearance, changes that add 30mm to the front overhang. The interior of the Grand Vitara 3-door is a far cry from Suzuki models past. Gone are the acres of black or grey plastics as seen in the old Grand Vitara and in their place comes a far more stylish duotone finish to the dashboard. The three-spoke steering wheel is an attractive design and can be configured with wheel-mounted controls for the stereo. Recent detail improvements include a revised multi-information display in the main instrument cluster, giving the driver clear information on vehicle status, including fuel consumption, mileage, driving range. The steering wheel-mounted switches are now illuminated for greater ease of use and there is a smarter control panel for the climate control unit. Safety measures have been upgraded in recent times, most notably with the introduction of an Electronic Stability Programme, rear disc brakes on the 1.9 DDiS and 2.4 models and extra shock-absorbing elements around the bonnet, wings and front bumper to reduce the risk of injury to pedestrians. With the 5-door model catering for buyers who prioritise more prosaic qualities in their 4x4s, the 3-door SZ model sacrifices some space, practicality and offroad ability to deliver a sportier appeal intended to attract the lifestyle-orientated buyer. It's pitched against the likes of Toyota's RAV-4 and Land Rover's Freelander, models. These are products with more by way of brand equity than the Grand Vitara in a market where image is particularly important but given the Suzuki's undeniable quality, they might start feeling the pinch once it gets into its stride.Facts At A Glance CAR: Suzuki Grand Vitara SZ 3-Door range PRICES: £13,600-£16,200 - on the road INSURANCE GROUPS: 12-14 CO2 EMISSIONS: 183-210g/km PERFORMANCE: [1.6] 0-60mph 13.4 seconds / Max Speed 99mph FUEL CONSUMPTION: [1.6] (combined) 32.5 mpg STANDARD SAFETY FEATURES: Twin front airbags. ABS, ESP WILL IT FIT IN YOUR GARAGE?: Length/Width/Height, 4005/1810/1695mm]]></description>
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<pubDate>Thu, 09 Jul 2009 15:43:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<title><![CDATA[Suzuki Grand Vitara Range : BADGE OF HONOUR]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Car And Driving - Suzuki's Grand Vitara is one of the few compact 4x4s that's up to the demands of proper off-roading. Now it's been improved and has a much more class-competitive 2.4-litre petrol engine. Jonathan Crouch reportsTake most compact 4x4s off road and they'll either be shedding body parts or will just whimper quietly and get stuck fast. The Suzuki Grand Vitara is different, being ruggedly built and equipped with a proper low range gearbox. The addition of a far better 2.4-litre petrol engine and standard ESP stability control mean that it makes sense on road too with budget prices and plenty of rugged practicality. It's a real rough diamond.Other makers may argue but Suzuki contends that its Vitara/Grand Vitara line-up offered the British market its very first compact 4x4. The range has been around on these shores in one form or another for over twenty years and well over 160,000 have been sold here. The current generation version has been well received, the one caveat being the performance of the 140bhp 2.0-litre petrol engine it was launched with. Suzuki makes much, understandably, of the car's off road ability but the truth is that the majority of buyers in this sector just don't care. For their predominately tarmac use, the petrol Grand Vitara's relative lack of pulling power meant either fronting up for the pricier diesel version or buying something else, preferably something that, unlike the Suzuki, offered as standard the kind of ESP stability control that all high-sided 4x4s should have. Hence the introduction of a 165bhp 2.4-litre petrol engine to sit above the 2.0-litre unit, the adoption of standard ESP across the range and a welcome package of visual tweaks and equipment upgrades. The Grand Vitara is far more capable in the rough than a Toyota RAV4 or a Honda CR-V and it's not difficult to see why. The four-wheel drive system is geared towards off-road rather than wet road traction and ground clearance is far better. The flipside of this is that the steering and chassis never feel so responsive on road, but for some this will be a more than acceptable trade off."If you put a value on ability rather than mere attitude, the Grand Vitara, now more than ever, deserves a place on your shopping listā¦."Recognising the life saving potential of electronic stability systems, Suzuki has developed an ESP stability control system borrowed from Daimler AG and fitted it as standard on 2.4-litre models. This particular set-up uses selective wheel braking and controls engine output as necessary to stabilise the vehicle if it detects understeer or oversteer situations which could possibly result in total loss of control. Further safety measures have also been upgraded, most notably with the introduction of ventilated rear disc brakes and extra shock-absorbing elements around the bonnet, wings and front bumper to reduce the risk of injury to pedestrians - a quality that had already earned Grand Vitara a very respectable three-star rating in independent Euro NCAP crash testing. Both the exterior and interior have been given a mild facelift. On the outside there is a revised front end treatment and restyled door mirrors with integrated turn indicators, while inside the cabin, chrome and wood-effect inlays are intended to add extra touches of quality. There have also been improvements to the design and operation of some of the dashboard controls, including a redesigned multi-information display and revised air conditioning control panel.The neat, minimal front end styling remains very appealing, while the sculpted wheelarches and clever use of curves and angles in the car's glasshouse gives it a very contemporary look. A quartet of engines are available to UK buyers, kicking off with a 105bhp 1.6-litre offered in three-door guise and running on to the old 140bhp 2.0-litre 16v petrol unit if you go for a 5-door model. I'd be tempted to save up a little more and spring for one of the more modern powerplants on offer. The petrol-engined 2.4-litre version is offered with both three and five-doors and features a balancer shaft for greater refinement. Arguably still the pick of the range is the 130PS diesel, also offered in both three and five-door bodystyles, which uses a Renault-sourced 1.9-litre turbodiesel. Mated to a five speed manual gearbox as standard, those who tire of changing gear themselves can pay a little extra and land themselves a four-speed automatic `box. Grand Vitara buyers get a decent quota of kit. Expect to find electric front windows, climate control air-conditioning, front, side and curtain airbags, ABS with EBD and a CD stereo. There's also heated and folding electric door mirrors, alloy wheels and front fog lamps. Front, side and curtain airbags protect front seat occupants while those in the rear benefit from curtain bags too. The 2.4-litre model has a high standard specification including an in-dash 6CD player with MP3 compatibility, rear privacy glass and 17-inch wheels. Five-door models additionally feature leather seats with front seat heating; High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps, cruise control, 18-inch wheels and electrically-operated glass sun-roof as standard. Pricing starts at under £14,000 for the base 1.6-litre SZ three-door, with the five-door variants (which only comes with the two larger engines) priced from around £17,000. If you were thinking of a Toyota RAV4 but were put off by prices that start the wrong side of £20k, give the Suzuki a try. You might well be very pleasantly surprised. Suzuki's pricing makes this Vitara look good value against rivals like Toyota's RAV4 for which you'll probably need a budget of over £20,000. If that sounds tempting, then give the Grand Vitara a try.You might well be very pleasantly surprised. It's equally cheap to run - at least in diesel form. With a combined economy figure of over 38mpg, the Grand Vitara 1.9 DDis isn't going to attract the ire of anti-SUV fundamentalists. Or rather it shouldn't. A carbon dioxide emissions figure of 183g/km isn't the end of the world (sorry) and the very low upfront price and perceived benefit of the diesel engine should prop up residuals very nicely. In developing the 2.4-litre petrol engine, Suzuki has managed to keep emissions at the same level as the older 2.0-litre unit (205-208g/km), though these were nothing to write home about. All Suzuki models are covered by Suzuki Shield, a three year/60,000 mile warranty and also by Suzuki Assistance which provides 24-hour UK and European roadside assistance, recovery and associated services for 36 months. Factor in a 12 year anti-perforation warranty and you've got belt and braces protection on the Grand Vitara. Figure on Group 14 insurance and you should get a handle on what sort of premiums you'll be paying. The Suzuki Grand Vitara's inbuilt authenticity has traditionally allowed it to override many of its shortcomings. In the past, these have included rather clumsy handling, petrol engines that were a little rough-edged and some rather cheap interior finishes. All these areas have been looked at in this revised range and though this car is still hardly cutting edge on tarmac, it's now a lot harder to dismiss on that score. Plus of course, this remains the only truly compact 4x4 that can cut the mustard off road. Long after cars like the Honda CR-V or Nissan X-TRAIL have waved the white flag, the Suzuki, equipped with its low range gearbox, will still be going strong. The issue at stake here is what store UK buyers place in genuine ability like this when most will just want a 4x4 because it makes them feel safer when it's raining. The 1.9-litre diesel in five-door form remains the best buy of the lot, combining the sweetest engine with the most practical body. If you do put a value on ability rather than mere attitude, the Grand Vitara, now more than ever, deserves a place on your shopping list.Facts At A Glance CAR: Suzuki Grand Vitara range PRICES: £13,600-£18,475 - on the road INSURANCE GROUPS: 12-14 CO2 EMISSIONS: 183-208g/km PERFORMANCE: [2.4 5dr] 0-60mph 11.7s / Max Speed 115mph FUEL CONSUMPTION: [2.4 5dr] (24.7mpg) / (extra urban) 37.1mpg / (combined) 31.3mpg STANDARD SAFETY FEATURES: Twin front airbags, ESP, ABS WILL IT FIT IN YOUR GARAGE?: [5dr] Length/Width/Height 4470/1810/1695mm]]></description>
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<pubDate>Thu, 09 Jul 2009 15:39:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<title><![CDATA[Subaru Forester vs. Suzuki Grand Vitara]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Car Enthusiast - Most car makers have realised that the crossover is the next big thing, though you can still pick up a decent compact off-roader.]]></description>
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<pubDate>Thu, 09 Jul 2009 09:17:37 GMT</pubDate>
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<title><![CDATA[Suzuki Swift 1.3 DDiS - Long Term Test : SWIFTLY DOES IT]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Car And Driving - Can Suzuki's Swift be quick to worm its way into our affections? Steve Walker reports.The automotive industry is riddled with household names, a good proportion of them connected to the supermini market sector. Fiesta, Corsa, Polo, Clio, Punto - these superminis are brands in their own right and there are many more competing for attention in the crowded marketplace. So with this scale of choice available, is it worth considering a supermini that perhaps isn't quite as well known? Do the big names give the best value or should we all be spreading our nets to encompass the less obvious choices? Suzuki's Swift is a supermini with a middling profile that could easily be overlooked if you become transfixed by the major names. A long term test should show what it's made of.Suzuki's Swift has the difficult job of persuading supermini buyers that it's a better destination for their money than the likes of Ford's Fiesta, Vauxhall's Corsa and the Renault Clio. Not easy. It gets off to a solid start with styling that's distinctive but has more than a passing resemblance to the poster child of the supermini market, the MINI. The foursquare stance, the curving bonnet and the blacked-out pillars hold definite similarities to BMW's retro masterpiece but you won't pay MINI prices for the Swift. Inside the car, the Swift adopts an uncomplicated approach, with slabs of dark plastic that's sturdy but doesn't have the tactility of the soft touch trim employed in the class leaders. Some will see the clean, uncluttered lines as boring and overly simplistic. Others will be impressed by the pared-down feel and the absence of gimmicks Our long term test car is the five-door Swift in 1.3-litre DDiS guise, which means it has a diesel engine. There are also three-door versions and petrol engines for buyers to consider. Our models is priced at under £11,000 and for that you get equipment running to air-conditioning, a CD stereo, remote central locking, electric front windows, electric heated mirrors, alloy wheels, front fog lamps and keyless entry. That's a good haul of features at this price point, especially when it comes with diesel power."ā¦the driving experience is up with the very best"The engine itself is a 74bhp one, the least powerful in the Swift range but being a diesel it has a good hit of torque on offer and feels stronger than the figures suggest when powering up hills or overtaking. Refinement isn't an issue, either. This is a very smooth sounding diesel engine that only really makes itself heard higher up in the rev range and the advantages of venturing there are negligible. There is a flat spot in the engine's power delivery at very low revs and it's possible to get caught out when emerging from junctions or pulling away up hill, forcing you to snatch another gear. We can probably forgive that in a small car like the Swift, however, especially when official economy is measured at 62.8mpg. The engine is generally a good one but the main reason for the Swift's popularity on our long term test has been its ride and handling. There are plenty of larger and supposedly more sophisticated superminis out there that have nothing like the Swift's fun factor. If driven quickly on a twisty road, it displays exemplary body control and the firm suspension refuses to be unsettled by changes in direction or undulations in the road. The pedal weights and the snappy gear change are very well judged, bringing an urgency to the experience. The small, chunky steering wheel feels good in the hands and although a little more feel and weight from the helm would be a bonus in extra urban driving, its light weight does simplify urban journeys. The Swift's small size and stubby bonnet also help around town, even if seeing out of the back isn't always easy, especially with the rear headrests extended. From a comfort point of view, the seats are firm, if lacking a little in lateral support, and there's plenty of adjustment to allow even taller drivers to get comfortable. Despite it's stocky external appearance, there's a huge amount of headroom for front seat passengers and plenty in back so long as you're not well over six-foot. Legroom in the rear is more of an issue than in some other superminis. A six-foot passenger can just about sit behind a six-foot driver with their feet tucked under the seat. Travelling with three across the rear bench would be a bit of a squeeze. The boot area is unusual. It doesn't offer too much outright space by the standards of the supermini class but then the Swift is 250mm shorter than a Ford Fiesta and something had to give. Suzuki has addressed the volume shortcomings with a double floor arrangement. There's a flat load floor when you open the tailgate, but by lifting a cover, you can access some useful extra space below. The rear seats split 60:40 and fold down with the release of just one catch to form a surface that's flush with the load floor cover. Big shopping trips may require the rear seats to be pressed into service but Suzuki has made the most of what it's got. The Swift's compact dimensions also tell in the lack of storage space in the cabin. The thin doors leave room for only the most measly of door pockets and the glovebox is already at bursting point with only the owner's manual shoved inside. It leaves a couple of cup holder pots and a shelf below the centre section of the dash, so if you're the sort of person who keeps a lot of stuff in the car, there may be issues. With sprawling dealer networks and vast budgets directed at advertising, marketing and PR, it's hardly surprising that the major names maintain such a higher profile in the minds of motorists. It also helps that they pump billions into research and development to make darn sure that their products live up to the hype. Without the same level of resources, a smaller brand like Suzuki has its work cut out but it would be nice to believe in the meritocracy of the market. That a model like the Swift could grab major success if it were good enough? Our long term test has revealed a little car that does things differently from the major supermini players. It's a little smaller and it concentrates on the basics rather than getting bogged down with trendy design and high tech features. It's very attractively priced and if you like your superminis sporty, the driving experience is up with the very best. Should buyers give the Swift a chance? We'd have to say yes.Facts At A Glance CAR: Suzuki Swift 1.3 DDiS PRICE: £10,950 - on the road INSURANCE GROUP: 4 CO2 EMISSIONS: 119g/km PERFORMANCE: 0-60mph 13.7s / Max Speed 102mph FUEL CONSUMPTION: (urban) 49.6mpg / (extra urban) 69mpg / (combined) 61.4mpg STANDARD SAFETY FEATURES: Front, side and curtain airbags, ABS with EBD and brake assist WILL IT FIT IN YOUR GARAGE?: Length/Width/Heightmm 3695/1690/1500]]></description>
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<pubDate>Fri, 03 Jul 2009 15:25:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<title><![CDATA[Suzuki SX4 1.6 DDiS - Long Term Test : SLOW BURNER]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Car And Driving - Suzuki's SX4 has hidden talents that a long term test should get out in the open. Steve Walker reports.As the market moves away from its obsession with compact 4x4s, there should be a ready demand for sensible family hatchbacks that retain a 4x4's look and feel. Such a car is Suzuki's SX4. It isn't a model that's going to leave bystanders aghast with admiration, particularly in its more affordable guises, but behind the forgettable bodywork lies a car that it's hard not to warm to. We've certainly been seduced by the little Suzuki over the course of our long term test.It's with cars like the SX4 that you really benefit from a bit of time spent behind the wheel. There's nothing about the little Suzuki that's going to immediately knock your socks off on first acquaintance but the more you drive it the more it grows on you. How this helps the SX4 in a sales environment where prospective buyers must make a decision after showroom viewing and a brief test drive isn't all that clear but take our word for it, after a few hundred miles you'll view the car in a much more favourable light. This car's most obvious rival is the model it shares a platform with, Fiat's Sedici, though the slightly larger Nissan Qashqai might also be seen as an alternative, as might some of the more road-orientated `proper' small 4x4s. Like some of them, the Suzuki SX4 we've been testing hasn't even got four-wheel-drive. Ours is a 1.6-litre DDiS diesel in GLX trim but that means it's cheaper, lighter and more fuel efficient than the 4Grip 4x4 models that Suzuki offers further up the SX4 range. These are attributes that seem a far better fit with this car's overriding character than the ability to drive up a muddy bank. As we've already indicated, visually the SX4 is nothing to write home about. It lacks the overt 4x4 styling cues that some of its contemporaries lay on so thick. There are roof rails and plastic cladding for the sills and wheelarches but the SX4 looks more like a high riding supermini than a thoroughbred off-roader. The interior is similarly low key but the uncluttered dash with its chunky controls works very well. The various functions for the audio and ventilation systems are extremely simple to operate and there's a tough feel to the plastics and the build quality that inspires confidence. The steering column doesn't adjust for reach which may be a barrier to some people getting comfy but the seats are firm and supportive with plenty of adjustment potential."A car that can surprise you if you take some time to acquaint yourself with it"Space inside the cabin is reasonably generous. There's no shortage of headroom and plenty of space for a couple of adults to squeeze in to the rear seats. Taking three in the back would be more of a problem unless they were younger children. The boot is only 270-litres in capacity which isn't huge but the rear seats can be folded and tumbled forward with a simple pull of a chord to increase capacity. The 1.6-litre DDiS diesel engine in our model generates a modest 90bhp but it feels stronger than that out on the road. The 0-60mph sprint takes 12.2s but in gear acceleration is helped by the 158Nm of torque which is produced from 1,750rpm. Progress is accompanied by a somewhat raucous engine note but it isn't too bad so long as you aren't pushing on to the top of the rev range in each gear. The SX4's driving experience is arguably its best feature. It feels just like a conventional supermini on the road with none of the pitching, lurching or body roll that can become apparent in tall 4x4-style vehicles. The steering is accurate and well weighted, turning into corners neatly where the abundant front-end grip can be made the most of. The five-speed gearbox has a punchy mechanical action with only a short throw required to slot into the next ratio and it helps give the SX4 a nimble, responsive feel. Fuel economy benefits from the absence of weighty 4x4 mechanicals in our model and while we've failed to replicate the 53.3mpg that the car returns on the official combined cycle, returns in the high 40s are not unheard of. CO2 emissions of 139g/km also make the SX4 very reasonable to tax. Equipment-wise our SX4 covers the basics very well. There's remote central locking, electric front windows, a CD stereo with volume controls on the steering wheel, a trip computer and roof rails. The safety provision is also generous with twin front, side and curtain airbags, ABS and three-point belts all round. Given the prices Suzuki is asking for its SX4, it's hard to argue with this level of specification. The Suzuki SX4 is perfect long term test fodder, a car that seems overwhelmingly unremarkable on first acquaintance but can surprise you if you take some time to acquaint yourself with it. The styling might be forgettable but robust build quality, a sprightly driving experience and low running costs all count in the SX4's favour. As an alternative to a run of the mill family hatch or a larger and more expensive 4x4 product, the little Suzuki could be just the ticket.Facts At A Glance CARS: Suzuki SX4 1.6 DDiS PRICE: £12,375 - on the road INSURANCE GROUPS: 6 PERFORMANCE: 0-60mph 12.2s / Max Speed 109mph FUEL CONSUMPTION: (urban) 44.1mpg / (extra urban) 61.4mpg / (combined) 53.3mpg STANDARD SAFETY FEATURES: Driver and passenger airbags, Side and curtain airbags, ABS with EBD WILL IT FIT IN YOUR GARAGE: (length/width/height) 4140/1755/1620mm]]></description>
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<pubDate>Fri, 19 Jun 2009 15:26:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<title><![CDATA[Suzuki SX4 1.6 DDiS : TOWN PLANNING]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Car And Driving - ]]></description>
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<pubDate>Fri, 22 May 2009 18:01:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<title><![CDATA[Suzuki Swift Range : A SWIFT TO BE PROUD OF]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Car And Driving - ]]></description>
<link>http://uk.rd.yahoo.com/cars/xml/?http://uk.cars.yahoo.com/car-reviews/car-and-driving/suzuki-swift-range-1004597.html</link>
<guid>http://uk.rd.yahoo.com/cars/xml/?http://uk.cars.yahoo.com/car-reviews/car-and-driving/suzuki-swift-range-1004597.html</guid>
<pubDate>Fri, 08 May 2009 12:40:00 GMT</pubDate>
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</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Suzuki Alto Range : ALTO EGO]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Car And Driving - ]]></description>
<link>http://uk.rd.yahoo.com/cars/xml/?http://uk.cars.yahoo.com/car-reviews/car-and-driving/suzuki-alto-range-1006204.html</link>
<guid>http://uk.rd.yahoo.com/cars/xml/?http://uk.cars.yahoo.com/car-reviews/car-and-driving/suzuki-alto-range-1006204.html</guid>
<pubDate>Wed, 11 Mar 2009 17:03:00 GMT</pubDate>
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</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Suzuki Alto SZ2 : VISUAL BASIC]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Car And Driving - ]]></description>
<link>http://uk.rd.yahoo.com/cars/xml/?http://uk.cars.yahoo.com/car-reviews/car-and-driving/suzuki-alto-sz2-1006286.html</link>
<guid>http://uk.rd.yahoo.com/cars/xml/?http://uk.cars.yahoo.com/car-reviews/car-and-driving/suzuki-alto-sz2-1006286.html</guid>
<pubDate>Wed, 11 Mar 2009 16:45:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<item>
<title><![CDATA[Suzuki Alto : COST COMPACTOR]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Car And Driving - ]]></description>
<link>http://uk.rd.yahoo.com/cars/xml/?http://uk.cars.yahoo.com/car-reviews/car-and-driving/suzuki-alto-10.html</link>
<guid>http://uk.rd.yahoo.com/cars/xml/?http://uk.cars.yahoo.com/car-reviews/car-and-driving/suzuki-alto-10.html</guid>
<pubDate>Mon, 02 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Suzuki SX4 1.6 DDiS - Day To Day Choice : QUIET CONTENDER]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Car And Driving - ]]></description>
<link>http://uk.rd.yahoo.com/cars/xml/?http://uk.cars.yahoo.com/car-reviews/car-and-driving/suzuki-sx4-1.6-ddis--day-to-day-choice-1006256.html</link>
<guid>http://uk.rd.yahoo.com/cars/xml/?http://uk.cars.yahoo.com/car-reviews/car-and-driving/suzuki-sx4-1.6-ddis--day-to-day-choice-1006256.html</guid>
<pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2009 12:27:00 GMT</pubDate>
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</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Suzuki Splash 1.0 : WHY SPLASH THE CASH?]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Car And Driving - ]]></description>
<link>http://uk.rd.yahoo.com/cars/xml/?http://uk.cars.yahoo.com/car-reviews/car-and-driving/suzuki-splash-1.0-1006238.html</link>
<guid>http://uk.rd.yahoo.com/cars/xml/?http://uk.cars.yahoo.com/car-reviews/car-and-driving/suzuki-splash-1.0-1006238.html</guid>
<pubDate>Fri, 30 Jan 2009 11:59:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<item>
<title><![CDATA[Suzuki Splash Range : SUZUKI MAKES A SPLASH]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Car And Driving - ]]></description>
<link>http://uk.rd.yahoo.com/cars/xml/?http://uk.cars.yahoo.com/car-reviews/car-and-driving/suzuki-splash-range-1005687.html</link>
<guid>http://uk.rd.yahoo.com/cars/xml/?http://uk.cars.yahoo.com/car-reviews/car-and-driving/suzuki-splash-range-1005687.html</guid>
<pubDate>Tue, 27 Jan 2009 10:28:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<item>
<title><![CDATA[Suzuki SX4 1.6 GLX 4GRIP : GET A GRIP?]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Car And Driving - ]]></description>
<link>http://uk.rd.yahoo.com/cars/xml/?http://uk.cars.yahoo.com/car-reviews/car-and-driving/suzuki-sx4-1.6-glx-4grip-1005253.html</link>
<guid>http://uk.rd.yahoo.com/cars/xml/?http://uk.cars.yahoo.com/car-reviews/car-and-driving/suzuki-sx4-1.6-glx-4grip-1005253.html</guid>
<pubDate>Fri, 28 Nov 2008 18:24:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<item>
<title><![CDATA[Suzuki Swift Attitude : A DOSE OF EXTRA ATTITUDE]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Car And Driving - ]]></description>
<link>http://uk.rd.yahoo.com/cars/xml/?http://uk.cars.yahoo.com/car-reviews/car-and-driving/suzuki-swift-attitude-1006205.html</link>
<guid>http://uk.rd.yahoo.com/cars/xml/?http://uk.cars.yahoo.com/car-reviews/car-and-driving/suzuki-swift-attitude-1006205.html</guid>
<pubDate>Fri, 17 Oct 2008 15:27:00 GMT</pubDate>
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</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Suzuki Jimny : JIMNY SWEEP]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Car And Driving - ]]></description>
<link>http://uk.rd.yahoo.com/cars/xml/?http://uk.cars.yahoo.com/car-reviews/car-and-driving/suzuki-jimny-1002501.html</link>
<guid>http://uk.rd.yahoo.com/cars/xml/?http://uk.cars.yahoo.com/car-reviews/car-and-driving/suzuki-jimny-1002501.html</guid>
<pubDate>Fri, 17 Oct 2008 13:22:00 GMT</pubDate>
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</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[20 years Suzuki Vitara]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[UnitedPictures.TV - 20 years Suzuki Vitara.]]></description>
<link>http://uk.rd.yahoo.com/cars/xml/?http://uk.cars.yahoo.com/13102008/66/20-years-suzuki-vitara-0.html</link>
<guid>http://uk.rd.yahoo.com/cars/xml/?http://uk.cars.yahoo.com/13102008/66/20-years-suzuki-vitara-0.html</guid>
<pubDate>Mon, 13 Oct 2008 09:31:55 GMT</pubDate>
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<title><![CDATA[Suzuki updates Grand Vitara with 2.4 model]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Car Enthusiast - Suzuki upgrades its Grand Vitara with a new 2.4-litre petrol engine.]]></description>
<link>http://uk.rd.yahoo.com/cars/xml/?http://uk.cars.yahoo.com/10102008/36/suzuki-updates-grand-vitara-2-4-model-0.html</link>
<guid>http://uk.rd.yahoo.com/cars/xml/?http://uk.cars.yahoo.com/10102008/36/suzuki-updates-grand-vitara-2-4-model-0.html</guid>
<pubDate>Fri, 10 Oct 2008 08:52:23 GMT</pubDate>
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<item>
<title><![CDATA[Suzuki Grand Vitara 3-Door Range : BABY GRAND]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Car And Driving - ]]></description>
<link>http://uk.rd.yahoo.com/cars/xml/?http://uk.cars.yahoo.com/car-reviews/car-and-driving/suzuki-grand-vitara-3-door-range-1004760.html</link>
<guid>http://uk.rd.yahoo.com/cars/xml/?http://uk.cars.yahoo.com/car-reviews/car-and-driving/suzuki-grand-vitara-3-door-range-1004760.html</guid>
<pubDate>Thu, 09 Oct 2008 15:10:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<item>
<title><![CDATA[Suzuki Grand Vitara 1.9 DDIS : GRAND DEE]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Car And Driving - ]]></description>
<link>http://uk.rd.yahoo.com/cars/xml/?http://uk.cars.yahoo.com/car-reviews/car-and-driving/suzuki-grand-vitara-1.9-ddis-1005455.html</link>
<guid>http://uk.rd.yahoo.com/cars/xml/?http://uk.cars.yahoo.com/car-reviews/car-and-driving/suzuki-grand-vitara-1.9-ddis-1005455.html</guid>
<pubDate>Thu, 09 Oct 2008 15:06:00 GMT</pubDate>
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</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Paris 2008: Suzuki Special]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[UnitedPictures.TV - At the Paris Motor Show Suzuki presents the SX4 and the new Suzuki Alto.]]></description>
<link>http://uk.rd.yahoo.com/cars/xml/?http://uk.cars.yahoo.com/07102008/66/paris-2008-suzuki-special-0.html</link>
<guid>http://uk.rd.yahoo.com/cars/xml/?http://uk.cars.yahoo.com/07102008/66/paris-2008-suzuki-special-0.html</guid>
<pubDate>Tue, 07 Oct 2008 10:00:35 GMT</pubDate>
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<item>
<title><![CDATA[Suzuki shows new Alto]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Car Enthusiast - Paris Motor Show debut for Suzuki's new small car. ]]></description>
<link>http://uk.rd.yahoo.com/cars/xml/?http://uk.cars.yahoo.com/08082008/36/suzuki-shows-new-alto-0.html</link>
<guid>http://uk.rd.yahoo.com/cars/xml/?http://uk.cars.yahoo.com/08082008/36/suzuki-shows-new-alto-0.html</guid>
<pubDate>Fri, 08 Aug 2008 07:44:46 GMT</pubDate>
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<item>
<title><![CDATA[Suzuki SX4 Range : SX AND THE CITY]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Car And Driving - ]]></description>
<link>http://uk.rd.yahoo.com/cars/xml/?http://uk.cars.yahoo.com/car-reviews/car-and-driving/suzuki-sx4-range-1005062.html</link>
<guid>http://uk.rd.yahoo.com/cars/xml/?http://uk.cars.yahoo.com/car-reviews/car-and-driving/suzuki-sx4-range-1005062.html</guid>
<pubDate>Fri, 23 May 2008 21:59:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<item>
<title><![CDATA[Suzuki Swift Sport : BIG FUN IN A SMALL PACKAGE]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Car And Driving - ]]></description>
<link>http://uk.rd.yahoo.com/cars/xml/?http://uk.cars.yahoo.com/car-reviews/car-and-driving/suzuki-swift-sport-1005355.html</link>
<guid>http://uk.rd.yahoo.com/cars/xml/?http://uk.cars.yahoo.com/car-reviews/car-and-driving/suzuki-swift-sport-1005355.html</guid>
<pubDate>Tue, 13 May 2008 13:38:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<item>
<title><![CDATA[Suzuki Swift 1.3 DDiS : GIVE YOUR SWIFT A LIFT]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Car And Driving - ]]></description>
<link>http://uk.rd.yahoo.com/cars/xml/?http://uk.cars.yahoo.com/car-reviews/car-and-driving/suzuki-swift-1.3-ddis-1004762.html</link>
<guid>http://uk.rd.yahoo.com/cars/xml/?http://uk.cars.yahoo.com/car-reviews/car-and-driving/suzuki-swift-1.3-ddis-1004762.html</guid>
<pubDate>Wed, 09 Apr 2008 15:07:00 GMT</pubDate>
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