First look: X2 heralds next Grand Vitara

SUZUKI’S CONCEPT-X2 unveiled in New York resembles the third-generation GrandVitara due on sale in Australia around October.

Following on from the Concept-X release in Detroit last winter, which showedthe work Suzuki is doing with the next-generation XL-7 4WD, the X2 continuessome trademark Vitara traits such as a ladder-frame construction, (circa140kW) V6 engine and a 4x4 transfer case.

The idea is that this time around, Grand Vitara won’t be so hardcore that it will disenfranchise prospective owners. It will have more room, comfort, power, independent suspension front and rear and a fi ve-speed automatic transmission.

There will be better crash protection, too, in the form of side and curtain airbags (still to be confirmed for Australia) and new structural design with head-impact protection included.

The show car has 18-inch wheels, traction control, ESP and anti-lock brakes with electronic brake-force distribution.

The new Vitara is certain to continue being among the best in class off the beaten track, with the X2 featuring a four-mode, full-time 4x4 transfer case with locking centre differential.