[1DYX]

Help us out here. Wife wants a new car.
She likes the Vitara grand. (Gotta be a 4 door)
I don't mind yet anoth zook in the garage either!

What do we look out for?

Car will be 2007 onwards.. (JB?)

Bearing in mind I have only had Sierras or LJ's, any info will be greatly appreciated...
Gonna look at a few tomorrow..

Cheers

[steve125]

Don't get an early model GV (2005 - 2008), they had the older engines, 2.0lt 4 cyl and 2.7 V6. From late 2008 onward the new engines started coming in, 2.4 4cyl and 3.2 V6, these are much better engines, a lot more power for similar fuel economy. My pick would be the V6, you can get a low K one for around $25k. The 4s are still pretty good if you want to save a few $$.

Brand new ones can be had for close to $30k if you can wait for a sale/haggle well, but watch out for really cheap new models as some are 2wd only.

Reliability wise, NGVs don't seem to have any major issues.

[Built4thrashing]

Ill second that^^

You should look for a 2008+ model as they all got ESP and tractoin control. Steve125 has a Diesel and i have a 4cly. Both Manuals and after lots of discussion about it we both decided the V6 auto would be the pick of the bunch. On the manuals the traction control cuts in too much when wheeling and can stop you and stall the engine.

Off road they will suprise you as to what they can do. We found the limit for steves on thurs on a steep rock strewn hill. Had to get out and clear the path as the big rocks were killing momentum and the TC was cutting in too much. He did make it after several attempts.

Both the Diesel and 4cly need more than 2000 rmp to get moving again and over ride the traction issues.

[1DYX]

Thanks for the input, gents.

Finances don't dtretch to the newer model, unfortunately.

Had a look at one at Big Rock. but it has definately seen some off-road work, even though the salesman reckons absolutely not.
Looked at a couple at Premir motors, and a couple out Wangara way. A very nice Blue one that we looked at but didnt drive, as it was boxed in.
Tried to get on to 2 private ones, but the owners wouldn't return our voicemail calls.

Still looking.. Did drive a very nice KJ Limited, though...

.

[fordem]

Pay close attention to the big rubber bush at the back of the front control arms - they rip out quite easily.

[shep]

The 2.4 works well with auto gear box. Ours is a good thing.