Until now customer opting for a diesel powered Suzuki Grand Vitara have been restricted in their choice to the larger 5-door bodystyle.But from April, a new 3-door model joins the range.The new model will be  priced at a competitive £14,999 on-the-road.

The new 1.9 DDiS Grand Vitara adopts the drivetrain of the manual transmission 5-door models.The car supplements permanent four-wheel drive with a centre differential lock and a low range to ensure serious and outstanding off road capability, Unlike its petrol-engined 3-door sibling, which is essentially a ‘soft roader’.

The intercooler and turbocharged engine is supplied from Renault, and gas a output of 129 PS, and a hefty 221 lb ft (300 Nm) of torque peaking at 2000 rpm.The fuel economy is not penalized by such an output, and the 1.9 DDiS 3 door Grand Vitara achieves 38.2 mpg on the combined cycle, while carbon dioxide emissions are 195 g/km. The enigine joins a line-up comprising 1.6-litre VVT and VVT+ 3-door manual models; 2.0-litre 16v 5-door manual and automatic models; and 1.9 DDiS 5-door manual model.

The equipment levels are generous, in line with other Grand Vitara models.It includes climate control, air conditioning, front electric windows, an integrated radio/CD player with steering wheel mounted audio controls, tinted glass, tilt adjustable steering, reclining rear seats, heated and folding door mirrors, immobiliser, alloys and front fogs. Outstanding safety credentials include front, side and curtain airbags for front seat occupants, plus curtain airbags in the rear.

 

The 3-door with its ‘crouched’ muscular form projects a more sporty persona,  in contrast to the 5-door model’s understated elegance. The front and rear legroom is comparable to that of models from a higher segment thanks to a relatively long wheelbase that permitted a roomy cabin.