2002 Suzuki Grand Vitara Review
2002 Suzuki Grand Vitara Review
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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Standard V6, distinctive looks, low-range transfer case on 4x4 models.
Cons
- Harsh suspension, unimpressive brakes, cramped rear seats, lack of cargo space.
What’s new
For 2002, the Grand Vitara's model matrix has been simplified. The JLS (rear-wheel drive) and JLX (four-wheel drive) share most equipment, and the Limited Edition is available with either drive system. Hoping to better match the competition, Suzuki upped the V6's power for 2002, improving acceleration and throttle response. In terms of equipment, all Vitaras get the LATCH child seat system, 4WD vehicles now have heated side mirrors and optional heated seats, and the Limited Edition trim gains a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob. Wrapping things up, Suzuki is now offering 24-hour emergency roadside assistance and towing for the duration of the vehicle's warranty to increase customer satisfaction.
Edmunds says
An aging mini SUV increasingly outdistanced by the competition.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2002 Suzuki Grand Vitara JLS 2WD 4dr SUV (2.5L 6cyl 5M) 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 $3.36 per gallon for regular unleaded in Ohio.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Ohio
$229/mo for Grand Vitara JLS
Grand Vitara JLS
vs
$179/mo
Avg. Compact SUV
Vehicle overview
With a title that sounds more like a sprawling Spanish estate than a mini-SUV, the Grand Vitara is Suzuki's well-equipped entrant into the rapidly growing mini-ute segment. Based on the four-door Vitara, the Grand Vitara is aimed at customers looking for a mini-SUV that includes all the amenities usually reserved for sport-utes in the more expensive midsize class. An extensive list of standard features comes with every Grand Vitara, the only options consisting of a four-speed automatic transmission, antilock brakes, alloy wheels and four-wheel drive.
For 2002, there are three different trim levels: JLS, JLX and top-of-the-line Limited. The JLS (two-wheel drive) and JLX (four-wheel drive) come with air conditioning, power windows and door locks, cruise control, remote keyless entry, micron air filtration, a CD-equipped audio system and comfy front bucket seats. In previous years, Suzuki offered JLS+ and JLX+ versions. These have been discontinued, and their respective options such as ABS and alloy wheels are now stand-alone options. The Grand Vitara Limited builds upon this impressive list of features with a standard four-speed automatic, leather seating, ABS, a cassette player, deep-tinted glass and a monochrome paint scheme.
All Grand Vitaras come with a V6 engine rated at 165 horsepower (10 more than last year) and 162 pound-feet of torque. Although this may have been a class-leading engine a few years ago, the mini-ute segment has spawned gutsy new entries such as the Jeep Liberty and Ford Escape/Mazda Tribute twins. These new competitors make the Grand Vitara's powerplant merely average. The Suzuki's suspension is a MacPherson strut design up front and a five-link coil-spring design in back that delivers a controlled ride off-road, but we consider it a little harsh on the highway.
Grand Vitara does offer a low-range transfer case and stout body-on-frame construction for traction and durability, but without a strong source of motivation, it's hard to consider the Grand Vitara a formidable off-road machine. Add that to its lack of rear seat room and minute amount of cargo space and you begin to see why the Grand Vitara pales in comparison to its more modern colleagues. Of course, most mini-ute buyers aren't looking for a Baja racer or wannabe Suburban anyway, leaving the Grand Vitara, with its extensive standard feature list and competitive price, a relevant competitor even amongst more worthwhile competition.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2002 Suzuki Grand Vitara.
5 star(55%)
4 star(30%)
3 star(6%)
2 star(2%)
1 star(7%)
47 reviews
Trending topics in reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
5 out of 5 stars
Great SUV for the money! Would buy another.
Jp, 08/10/2015
2001 Suzuki Grand Vitara Limited 4WD 4dr SUV (2.5L 6cyl 4A)
I have had mine for over ten years. No serious mechanical issues ever. Replaced tires early on, now it goes through deep snow, sometimes past American 4 wheel drive trucks that are stuck. Normal wear-out stuff replaced, wiper blades, battery, brakes, belts, hoses. Gas mileage 20-25 mixed driving, 5 speed stick shift. Car has burned a little oil since new. Takes a quart every few … thousand miles, so we just change the oil and filter. A great car for family with small children. Has been a real pleasure.
2016 Update, 80,000 miles, still running great.
2017 Update, 86,000 miles, still running great.
5 out of 5 stars
15 yrs of joy/ 18 yrs coming ☝
Georgia, 10/20/2015
2001 Suzuki Grand Vitara JLX Plus 4WD 4dr SUV (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
I bought my SUV XL7 off the lot. Brand new. I had never had a new car before. I was 60 yrs old and I wanted a car that I could go anywhere with. Camping, fishing, drive across country and not have to worry about breaking down in the middle of nowhere. This Suzuki Grand Vitara XL 7 has been wonderful! It is getting a few exterior rattles but so am I. A few dings. …
But all these yrs NOTHING has n needed to be replaced. Although I did lose the ashtray (long story). It is my pride and joy. I'd never trade it in for a new one. I'm happy and content with my 2001 Suzuki XL 7 Grand Vitara. I just need to find a replacement ashtray. humm? UUpdate: Ok, it's the end of 2017. Need new break discs. But other than that ( and a grocery store ding) she is still going 💪. I'll be back again next year and I'm quite sure my Suzuki XL7 will be too. Happy ☺driving 🚗!
4.75 out of 5 stars
Great Choice in Vehicles
Shelly, 01/13/2007
2001 Suzuki Grand Vitara JLX 4WD 4dr SUV (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
I purchased this vehicle new in 2001 after doing a lot of research. I could be happier with my choice. I love it and have never had a real issue with this SUV. The only maintenance has been oil changes, windshield wipers and tires - it still has its original brakes, etc. It did have one minor recall issue that was fixed easily by the dealership. I have done some off-roading and felt … very secure. The back end is light, but add a couple of sand bags in the winter and it does great in 4WD. It is a pleasure to drive on or off road.
3.75 out of 5 stars
250,000 MILES!!!!!!!
willis1987, 05/10/2012
2001 Suzuki Grand Vitara JLX Plus 4WD 4dr SUV (2.5L 6cyl 4A)
Need i say more? lol no really 250,000 plus miles and still going strong although there have been some problems along the way a rear main seal luckily a family member could fix. A new barely used rear end had to be put under it about 2grand there. Just now in need of throttle position sensor also just realized a tranny mount broke needs replaced so couple hundred bucks but it has been an … absolute beast of a car all 250,000 miles put on it great vehicle would def recommend to anyone looking into purchasing one they are stroooooonnnngggg little motors tranny is smooth and overall comfort of ride is pretty well great
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2002 Suzuki Grand Vitara, so we've included reviews for other years of the Grand Vitara since its last redesign.
2002 Grand Vitara Highlights
JLS
Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $18,599 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Combined MPG | 18 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $229/month |
Seating | 5 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 21 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | rear wheel drive |
Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
Safety
NHTSA Overall Rating
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverallNot RatedDriver4 / 5Passenger4 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverallNot Rated
- Side Barrier RatingOverallNot RatedDriver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront SeatNot RatedBack SeatNot Rated
- RolloverRollover3 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of RolloverNot Rated
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 – OriginalPoor
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Roof Strength TestNot Tested
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintNot Tested
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