New car sales price Suzuki Grand Vitara 2WD

Suzuki has again started making a two wheel drive version of its Grand Vitara something they have been doing for years with previous models, none of which made it to Australia.

That's changed with the appearance of the new "twobie". Suzuki is a survivor and realises you have to diversify to survive in the 21st century car market and that means you really do need a two wheel drive (quasi) SUV.

It caters directly for the needs of urbanites seeking the tough 4WD look but who never, ever go off road. Two wheel drive versions of SUVs are gaining momentum as punters realise they don't need nor do they want to pay for an all-wheel-drive capability.

But Suzuki has taken a different track with its 2WD Grand Vit'. Unlike direct competitors and apart from Mitsubishi's Challenger 2WD the little Zook drives through the rear wheels and not the front.

Does it matter? Probably not except for the fact that a rear wheel drive will tow better than a fronty and there is always the drive feel question which favours powered rear wheels. The 2WD Grand Vitara is available in five door, long wheelbase with a 2.4-litre petrol four cylinder engine and a choice of five speed manual and four speed automatic transmission.

Hopefully they can scrounge up a more modern auto before too long. Aisin makes one. The 2WD Zook sells for $26,990 (two grand under the 4WD model) and comes well equipped to mid-spec of the fourbie model.

The four pot engine is good for 122kW/225Nm output and because the 2WD Grand Vitara weighs less than the 4WD model, it will use less fuel, (around 8.0-litres/100km) and perform better. Grand Vitara also gains a styling refresh with a more purposeful looking grille and headlights and detail changes throughout the vehicle.