1999 Suzuki Vitara Review
1999 Suzuki Vitara Review
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Edmunds' Expert Review
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Pros
- More powerful than the Kia or Toyota.
Cons
- It doesn't come standard with ABS.
What’s new
The Vitara is an all-new model that replaces the Sidekick as Suzuki's entry into the mini-SUV class.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 1999 Suzuki Vitara JX 4dr SUV 4WD and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.64 per gallon for regular unleaded in Ohio.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Ohio
$219/mo for Vitara JX
Vitara JX
vs
$189/mo
Avg. Compact SUV
Vehicle overview
Watching the mini SUV class become increasingly crowded with entries from Toyota (RAV4), Honda (CR-V) and Kia (Sportage), Suzuki decided it was time to stir things up with a completely new mini-ute to replace the aging Sidekick.
The all-new Vitara enters this arena with bold styling, a rigid chassis and advanced suspension components. Available as either a two-door convertible or a four-door model, this new Suzuki boasts a long list of standard features plus several luxury options.
The two-door, soft-top Vitara comes standard with a 1.6-liter, 16-valve engine that makes 97 horsepower and 103 pound-feet of torque. An optional all-aluminum, 2.0-liter engine can be ordered which bumps horsepower to 127 and maximum torque to 134. The four-door Vitara comes standard with the larger engine, which uses a Direct Drive Valvetrain (DDV) for increased throttle response and lower fuel consumption.
Both the convertible and four-door models can be ordered in two- or four-wheel drive. An independent MacPherson strut front suspension and five-link coil spring rear suspension is used throughout the Vitara line and all models come with a five-speed manual transmission, an Alpine AM/FM/cassette sound system, dual airbags, and daytime running lights. Options include air conditioning, alloy wheels, power windows, and a four-speed automatic. Surprisingly, ABS is also an option even though it's standard on both the RAV4 and CR-V.
With it's creative look, powerful engine, and roomy interior, the Vitara offers a competition package that may take a bite out of RAV4 and CR-V sales.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 1999 Suzuki Vitara.
5 star(50%)
4 star(37%)
3 star(0%)
2 star(13%)
1 star(0%)
8 reviews
Trending topics in reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
4.75 out of 5 stars
Love it!
spotgofast, 02/07/2004
1999 Suzuki Vitara JX 2.0 2dr SUV 4WD
I bought this car used with 82,000 on
it. So far I've had it a week, and am
in love with it. I haven't tried to
take the top off yet, looks a little
complicated, but only time will tell.
I like how it handles and the fuel
efficiency. I was suprised at how
roomy this little car is. My biggest
friend fits (6'5") and people have more
room in the back than in a jeep, … not to
mention it handles better. I'm very
happy with my purchse and would
recomend this mini suv to anyone. I
have a samurai and really had fun with
it...but needed something that could go
freeway speeds. It's a little mountain
goat in 4wd!
5 out of 5 stars
Snot rocket
Ish , 11/15/2021
1999 Suzuki Vitara JX 2.0 2dr SUV 4WD
I got this vehicle when I was fourteen. I painted it up and made it green. Did all the body work on it. Didn’t really do any maintenance when I got it. I think I did an oil change. It drives great and handles great even on high ways. I’ve only had to change a uv and my rear brakes after having it for two years
4.25 out of 5 stars
Why the bad Rap?
Jen, 08/14/2002
1999 Suzuki Vitara JX 2.0 2dr SUV 4WD
I can't believe all the negative
reviews! I've had mine 3 years and
other than the occasional maintance and
odd adjustments I've really enjoyed
driving this little beauty! Same
problem with the locked Park they did a
recall. I also had a problem with the
convertable roof but with any
convertable you can expect problems. I
think overall the reliabiliy of the
vehicle … comes down to with a reliable
dealership, quality of the vehicle and
how well someone looks after their
vehicle. You really have to think
about what you are buying and why. If
its a fun convertible that is great on
gas - this is the vehicle for you!!
4.13 out of 5 stars
Still love my Vitara
nb, 09/26/2007
1999 Suzuki Vitara JX 4dr SUV 4WD
I wanted a Honda or Nissan, but the extra $2k or more for those or for the Grand Vitara were budget busters for me. I love the purple color I got (electric cat's eye blue) and the cute and fun look; I don't drive a lot (just to work; I'm efficient and green) but I got this for off-road and it is excellent for that. I've not been off-road as much as I wanted, but that's my personal life, … not the car. I think this is an excellent value, and should be considered.
1999 Vitara Highlights
JX
Engine Type | Gas |
---|---|
Combined MPG | 21 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $219/month |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 21.0 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | four wheel drive |
Safety
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestNot Tested
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – OriginalAcceptable
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Roof Strength TestNot Tested
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintNot Tested
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