LAUNCHING a car with a 2.4-litre petrol engine in the midst of a credit crunch might not seem like a good move but it's hard not to like Suzuki's new flagship Grand Vitara.
The latest version of this popular compact SUV 's a real winner offering a blend of versatility and a rather engaging drive.
Given the added weight most SUVs (even compact ones) carry around they're not the swiftest machines on the road, particularly when mated to a diesel engine and the customary diesel lag when accelerating.
But this Grand Vitara feels genuinely swift and sporty thanks to its punchy new petrol engine.
The significance of the new engine to the range should not be underestimated. Suzuki even gave this latest derivative a launch all of its own to mark its arrival.
It's a replacement for the outgoing two-litre unit and while some manufacturers are doing away with petrol versions altogether or at least downsizing with smaller and more frugal units Suzuki are upsizing.
On paper increasing capacity by almost half a litre might seem like a way to alienate rather than entice customers.
Yes, capacity is increased, but as well as some of the drawbacks one might associate with such a move there are benefits too.
If you're worried about your carbon footprint you can be comforted by the fact carbon emissions are on a par with the old 2.0-litre petrol model.
Fuel economy won't win any awards but at more than 30mpg it isn't bad either and again as good as the outgoing 2.0-litre.
Other pluses are more power, torque and increased refinement.
It's certainly an engine that suits the Grand Vitara well - noticeably sweet and smooth and with impressive performance.
My test car was mated to an automatic gearbox that again seemed like a match made in heaven.
It makes for a spirited car that is surprisingly good fun and easy to drive, with permanent four-wheel-drive giving it sure-footedness and plenty of grip.
It handled nicely too, my only criticism would be the fact that if one makes the most of that potent powerplant you start to feel the forces of gravity come into play with a little bit of roll when cornering at speed.
As far as fit and finish goes the Grand Vitara is well built and nicely done out. The instrumentation is straightforward and functional rather than flash and fancy, but everything is where you need it and does the job well.
Its design is well suited to the needs of a family, in particular there's plenty of room in the rear and getting in and out is easy. The Grand Vitara's nicely elevated height makes accessing the front or back seats feel effortless.
The boot is large and I also like the ease of access offered by the horizontally opening tailgate, even if it is a little heavy to swing open.
There are some cars you quickly feel at home in and this Grand Vitara was definitely one of them.
If you're buying one then the big question is whether to play safe with the 1.9-litre diesel that will offer lower running costs or live dangerously and take the plunge with the spirited 2.4-litre petrol.
It's keenly priced too, with prices starting at £14,250 for the entry level three-door manual.
FAST FACTS
Suzuki Grand Vitara 2.4 SZ5 auto
Price: £18,990
Mechanical: 169bhp, 2,393cc, 4cyl petrol engine driving four wheels via 4-speed automatic gearbox.
Max speed: 109mph
0-62mph: 12 seconds
Combined mpg: 29.1
Insurance group: 14
CO2 emissions: 225g/km
BiK rating: 29%
Warranty: 3yrs/ 60,000 miles