Segment:
Compact/Subcompact SUV
Target Audience:
DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, and Suzuki dealerships.
Competitors:
Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Nissan Xterra, Mitsubishi Montero Sport
Vehicle Strengths:
Compact size, available 4WD, relatively robust powertrain for its class, good fuel economy (for its era and segment).
Manual Value Proposition:
Empowers owners and technicians with factory-level diagnostic and repair procedures, saving time and money on maintenance and repairs.
Powertrain:
Engine (G16A, H20A), Transmission (4-speed Automatic, 5-speed Manual), Drivetrain (4WD system), Exhaust System
Chassis:
Suspension (Front: MacPherson Strut, Rear: Multi-link), Steering System (Power Rack and Pinion), Brakes (Front: Ventilated Discs, Rear: Drums or Discs), Wheels and Tires
Electrical:
Engine Control System (ECU), Ignition System, Fuel Injection System, Lighting System, Instrumentation, Audio System, HVAC Controls, Power Accessories, Body Electrical Components, Wiring Diagrams
Body And Interior:
Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Tailgate, Bumpers, Interior Trim, Seats, Restraint Systems (Airbags, Seatbelts)
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks and Replacements, Tune-ups, Belt Replacements
Repair And Overhaul:
Engine Disassembly/Assembly, Transmission Overhaul, Brake System Repair, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Repair, Bodywork Repair
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Symptom-based Troubleshooting Guides, Electrical Circuit Testing, Mechanical Component Testing
Installation And Adjustment:
Component Installation and Removal, Alignment Procedures, Brake Adjustment, Clutch Adjustment (if manual transmission)
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring diagrams.
Digital Format Characteristics:
Searchable PDF, high-resolution images, printable pages, bookmark navigation.
Print Quality:
High-resolution diagrams, clear text, durable paper (if printed).
Binding Type:
Perfect binding or coil binding for ease of use in a workshop environment (if printed).
Paper Type:
Heavyweight, glossy or matte paper suitable for workshop conditions (if printed).
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type Optional:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission
Drivetrain Options:
2WD (Rear-Wheel Drive) and 4WD (Four-Wheel Drive) with low-range transfer case
Automatic Transmission Features:
Electronically controlled, Overdrive gear
Length:
~4020-4030 mm (158.3-158.7 in)
Width:
~1780-1785 mm (70.1-70.3 in)
Height:
~1650-1670 mm (65.0-65.7 in)
Wheelbase:
~2480 mm (97.6 in)
Ground Clearance:
~195-200 mm (7.7-7.9 in)
Curb Weight 1.6L:
~1250-1350 kg (2755-2976 lbs)
Curb Weight 2.0L:
~1300-1450 kg (2866-3197 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Varies by model and configuration, typically around 1800-1900 kg
Cargo Volume Seats Up:
~380 Liters (13.4 cu ft)
Cargo Volume Seats Down:
~770 Liters (27.2 cu ft)
NHTSA Front Crash Rating:
Not explicitly rated or available for this model year in many markets. Generally considered adequate for its class at the time.
IIHS Crash Test Performance:
Data not readily available for this specific model and year from IIHS.
ABS:
Available on higher trims, standard on some models
Traction Control:
Not commonly equipped on this model year.
Airbags:
Driver and Front Passenger Airbags (Standard or Optional based on market/trim)
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts, pretensioners for front seats
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH system not typically present; older vehicles would use seatbelt for securing child seats.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/Cassette stereo with optional CD player. Basic speaker setup.
Connectivity:
Limited connectivity by modern standards. May include a 12V power outlet. No USB, Bluetooth, or auxiliary inputs standard.
Cruise Control:
Optional on higher trim levels.
Parking Assistance:
No factory parking sensors or rearview cameras. Relies on driver visibility and mirrors.
Engine Oil And Filter:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. (Consult manual for severe driving conditions).
Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed.
Spark Plugs:
100,000 miles (160,000 km) for iridium tipped plugs (if equipped), or 30,000 miles (48,000 km) for standard plugs.
Coolant Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
Check level periodically, change fluid approximately every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 48 months.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Check level periodically, change fluid approximately every 50,000 miles (80,000 km) or 48 months. (Suzuki recommends fluid changes only if necessary).
Engine Oil Specification:
API SJ or higher, SAE 10W-30 recommended. (Consult manual for extreme temperature variations).
Engine Oil Capacity:
~3.8 Liters (4.0 US Quarts) with filter change for 1.6L, ~4.3 Liters (4.5 US Quarts) with filter for 2.0L V6.
Coolant Specification:
Suzuki Super Long Life Coolant or equivalent ethylene glycol based coolant with demineralized water (50/50 mix).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 gear oil.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
ATF DEXRON III or equivalent.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
Power steering fluid (consult manual for specific type, typically Dexron compatible).
Common Wear Items:
Suspension bushings, sway bar links, ball joints, exhaust system components, clutch wear (manual transmission).
Engine Related:
Occasional valve cover gasket leaks, potential for carbon buildup on V6 engines if not maintained properly.
Transmission Related:
Automatic transmission can be sensitive to fluid changes and level; manual transmissions are generally robust.
Electrical Gremlins:
Older vehicles can develop issues with wiring harnesses, switches, and relays due to age and environmental factors.
4Wd System:
Transfer case and differential fluids should be monitored; potential for worn CV joints in 4WD models.
Suzuki Offroad Legacy:
Suzuki has a long history with rugged, capable off-road vehicles like the Samurai and Jimny, influencing the Grand Vitara's design philosophy.
First Generation Launch:
The first generation Suzuki Vitara (known as Grand Vitara in many markets from 1998 onwards) was introduced in 1998, evolving from the original smaller Vitara.
2000 Model Year Updates:
The 2000 model year represents an early stage of the first generation, likely carrying over most features from its initial launch, with potential minor package or feature adjustments.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primary manufacturing was in Japan. Some models may have been assembled in other Suzuki facilities globally.