IT'S bigger and sleeker - but does size really count or is it more 'what you do with what you've got' that's important?
In the case of the new, second generation Suzuki Grand Vitara, it's definitely the former.
The latest version is longer, wider, but reduced in height. It is more spacious, boasts sleek new styling, and, thanks to an innovative body construction, offers better refinement while still delivering the strong four-wheel drive capability for which the marque is renowned.
And the changes have been made for a reason.
For Suzuki acknowledges the inclination of a growing number of customers to choose cross-over designs that are stylish and perform well on-road.
In order to widen its appeal, yet simultaneously return to its roots, the new model boasts greater sophistication than its predecessor, yet is dynamically superior both on-road as well as off.
Suzuki has adopted two subtly different philosophies for the three and five-door models to reflect the demands of the market.
So, while the three-door model features permanent four-wheel drive, it doesn't feature a centre differential lock and has been specifically designed as a 'soft-roader', providing all the safety benefits of a four-wheel drive system on-road - added security in greasy and slippery conditions - plus useful levels of traction in, say, muddy fields or on gravel tracks.
On the other hand, five-door models offer a differential lock and low range that signal their full-on SUV credentials and the serious off road capability for which Suzuki has become renowned - they will tackle tough, muddy off road conditions with ease.
The four different modes provided by the system on five-door models are easily selected via a dash-mounted rotary switch.
Also, for the first time, Suzuki has opted for unitary, rather than body on frame, construction for the Grand Vitara. However, Suzuki insists this doesn't indicate a watering-down of the range's off-roading heritage.
It says strengthening elements incorporated into the body provide additional rigidity to match the most traditional of off-roaders and ensure exceptional off road ability.
In a sense this lightweight design is a best of both worlds, for it delivers better refinement and a stiff platform upon which the all-independent suspension can work at its best. That all-new suspension offers drivers a combination of driving comfort, responsive handling and off-road toughness when it counts.
The range initially comprises a 1.6 16v VVT three-door model and a 2.0 16v five-door model, which was my test vehicle. They will be joined later by the 1.9 DDiS five-door model.
But for all the management speak, and despite it being better looking, driving the Vitara is not particularly memorable. It does its job, it's functional, but unspectacular.
The 2.0 16v will be available with an optional automatic transmission and all feature an all-new, permanent four-wheel drive system.
The Grand Vitaras are well equipped with higher levels of safety, passenger comfort and interior room.
All models feature as standard climate control air conditioning, front electric windows (plus rear on five-door models), an integrated radio/CD player, steering wheel-mounted audio controls, tinted glass, a tilt adjustable steering column, remote central locking, reclining rear seats, folding exterior door mirrors, driver and front passenger front and side airbags, front and rear curtain airbags and an immobiliser.
FAST FACTS
Suzuki Grand Vitara 2.0 5dr
Price: £15,499
Mechanical: 140bhp, 1,995cc, 4cyl petrol engine driving all four wheels via 5spd manual gearbox
Max speed: 109mph
0-62mph:12.5 secs
Combined mpg: 31
Insurance group: 14
CO2 emissions: 220g/km
BiK rating: 31%
Warranty: 3yrs/ 60,000 miles; 6yrs anti-rust