Suzuki Grand Vitara (2005-2023)
JB / JT.I, JB / JT.II · See All
Also referred to as: Suzuki Grand Vitara 2022 and Suzuki Grand Vitara 2024.
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115 reviews · Statistics
Bought new and broken down regularly
Grand Vitara JB / JT.II 3 Door Navigator Manual (2014-2023)I bought this car new just over 3 years ago and we’ve had many issues, one after another. Luckily it’s still under warrantee but it’s been very frustrating taking it into be fixed all the time.
It’s currently sitting in our garage unable to start. Warning lights flash everywhere when you put the keys in. Speaking with Suzuki, they can’t look at it for weeks. We also have to pay for a tow to get it to the service centre. Even though it’s under warrantee.
The car was clearly bought be faults. Would never buy a Suzuki again.
Purchased in .
- Transmission: Manual
- Bought: New
- Year: 2019
Best value for money in the small "real" 4WD segment
Grand Vitara JB / JT.I Prestige (2006-2011)We bought a 2009 model 3.2 V6 "Prestige" in late 2018. We chose that model specifically because the 3.2 is recognised as the "pick" of the GV litter (before or since). None of the early J24B issues (head/block cracking), or the high maintenance of the 1.9 T/D models.
We've installed a light duty bull bar (the only legal 'bar which is available for these, owing to the HID light washers), and replaced the (working) 6-stack CD player/radio, with an integrated head unit which includes Sat Nav and reverse camera. (Should have been a factory inclusi
... Read moreon). The car came with a factory Hayman Reece towbar rated to 2 tonnes (the max. rating for these and the 1.9 T/D Grand Vitaras. Others are lesser rated). Having effectively "sorted" the car, I often find myself lusting after something which would be a better "tow" vehicle (E.g. a 100 series Landcruiser). I never "pull the trigger", so to speak, because: A) For the limited tow use we put the GV to, it does well enough (including towing a camper trailer ~17000kms through NSW/QLD/NT/QLD in 2019) B) The price differential far exceeds any extra "utility" the LC could provide, and C) If/when we eventually travel Australia in a motorhome, the GV will be a much better "towed" vehicle, compared to the heavier, longer LC.Purchased in for $9,990.
- Transmission: Automatic
- Bought: Used
- Year: 2009
This is my 2nd Grand Vitara and I love it.
Grand Vitara JB / JT.II 3 Door Navigator (2014-2023)I had my first Grand Vitara 10 years without any problems what-so-ever. I decided to upgrade to a later model. I have now had my 2018 model for the last 2 years and cannot fault it in any way. If a new one was available (3 door), I would not hesitate to purchase one.
Purchased in for $20,990.
- Transmission: Automatic
- Bought: Used
- Year: 2018
Great car, plenty of power, great offroad but a little thirsty.
Suzuki Grand Vitara (2005-2023)Updated 9/2/2023
Dont buy the early diesel and petrol variants! The 2.7, 3.2 and are the safest bet as the earlier gen III engines suffered from cracking blocks and heads. After 2012 the issues were fixed from my knowledge.
I bought just over 2 years ago an '09 prestige for $9,500. I specifically looked for the 3.2 v6 and 5spd auto option.
Im the 3rd owner and it has almost hit 270,000kms.
The first mods I did were fit 245/75/16 mud tyres on 16" steel rims (the standard 18's aren't too good for offroad), a 40mm lift with additional spring spac
Purchased in for $9,500.
- Transmission: Automatic
- Bought: Used
- Year: 2009
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Bought new 2007, owned it till Nov 2021
Grand Vitara JB / JT.I Trekker (2006-2008)Owned our 2.7lt V6 Auto Grand Vitara Trekker since new in 2007 and just recently sold.
Extremely reliable, great build quality, excellent vehicle for towing with good low down torque.
Currently have 162,000 on the clock with no major faults.
Just had new tyres and new suspension done, feels like new again after 15 years. Still has original brake shoes on rear and not needing replacement!
I have found in 15 yrs of ownership need to replace both battery and tyres every 5 years, as tyres last about 55,000klms. General servicing is easy and very
Purchased in for $35,500.
- Transmission: Automatic
- Bought: New
- Year: 2006
Kizashi engine fits in Grand Vitara
Grand Vitara JB / JT.I Trekker (2006-2008)Re: common GV Cracked j24b block and or cracked head.
Swaped late model, 2012, Kizashi engine into my 2010 Grand vitara.
Used GV intake and exhaust manifolds and GV sump and dipstick. The Grand vitara runs Beautifully again.
Just so everyone knows...
Purchased in at Pain Stop.
- Transmission: Automatic
- Bought: Used
- Year: 2010
Greatest Vehicle i ever had
Grand Vitara JB / JT.I Prestige (2006-2011)2010 Prestige V6 3.2 Auto bought s/hand at 30,000 2nd owner . Currently up to 150,000 now and average around 15k km pa , 7 years later this car has not missed a beat, brilliant power, a bit heavy on the juice but astonishing capability , dependability and very reliable . These sorts of vehicles are no longer made (last was a Pajero SWB discontinued), the Suzuki Vitara puts most prado's and landcruisers to shame and invented the category with Rav 4.
No issues whatsoever , travelled extensively throughout SA/VIC on many long fishing trips , dirt
... Read more, sand, towing and often very isolated , 4wd and city use is excellent , this little beauty has gone places most people would not attempt and still starts each morning for work driving to my office . Vehicles after 2010 were a better build quality with more modern technology, 3.2ltr and diesels around 2010-2012 were brilliant , need to ensure previous owner has looked after the car , as like with most, a history of abuse will show up with issues. This is not isolated to Suzuki but any car for that matter. The Japanese make brilliant cars which are highly reliable , parts are easy to get and the vehicle's simplicity is its strength. Its shape continues to blend in well with all the modern cars in the parking lot today, still looks good and rugged and well dimensioned. Imagine having compact Toyota reliability with full off road capability, ladder frame chassis, low/high range, diff lock, hill decent , cruize ctrl , sat nav , leather and a 36 valve 3.2ltr V6 with 5 speed auto & torque converter with 4 wheel disks in a compact car with climate ctrl etc - its unheard of these days . Building vehicles of this nature would cost a bomb for manufacturers and would send them bust, hence looking for niche vehicle and knowing the market is important to gaining a great car. There are many other more modern softer sorts of cars out there, most will die over time and Suzuki will keep on going. I am scared to sell it as nothing will come close in the market now . Find a clean well kept car ,keep up regular servicing ,clean oil and treat it well and these things will go forever. Had a few local mechanics including my local Toyota dealer who have been servicing the car all rave about these cars in terms of the mechanics , parts and reliability.. Goods ones are hard to find, if you get one hang on to it . Happy car hunting !Purchased in for $21,000.
- Transmission: Automatic
- Bought: Used
- Year: 2010
My Suzuki Grand Vitara got on fire automatically
Grand Vitara JB / JT.I (2005-2011)I have a 2009 Suzuki Grand Vitara. Driving on 15 Sep 2020, I sow fire over engine. Before I take the fire extinguisher, most parts of the engine were damaged.
Purchased in for $15,000.
- Transmission: Manual
- Bought: Used
- Year: 2009
Great little run about but don't put tow bars on them
Grand Vitara JB / JT.II 3 Door Navigator Automatic (2014-2023)If towing it will break out the mounting points on the beaver panel, after talking with a mechanic he has seen it a lot with grand Vista's after 100000 klms
2016 jb 3 door has only done 40000 klms very disappointed . No help from Suzuki Australia or Suzuki Queensland
Purchased in at Suzuki Dealers.
- Transmission: Automatic
- Bought: Used
- Year: 2016
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Mixed bag
Grand Vitara JB / JT.II Sport Automatic (2011-2023)I have 2012 4WD model. First 3 years was OK, but now its got 95,000 km its starting to have issues. The heater blower just broke, I was very lucky to get a used one installed cheap. LCD Dashboard screen display has pixels that have failed so often I can not read the time and the radio station. One rear door is rusting! Poor rustproofing from the factory. Car is easily scratched as the paint is extremely thin as are the panels which can be dented by hand. Fuel consumption is terrible as its a permanent 4wd, I rarely get less that 10.5 litres per 100km of soft pedal driving.
Off road the car is VERY good for the size of the car but unless you intend to do regular off road driving then get a RAV4.
Purchased in .
- Transmission: Automatic
- Bought: Used
- Year: 2012
Astonishing little car
Grand Vitara JB / JT.II 5 Door Navigator (2014-2018)I bought this car in March 2019,it being a 2013 manual model with 86000kms on the clock.I have just finished a drive lasting a month and traversing 10000 kms from Brisbane to Laverton via Winton Alice Springs Yulara and back via the Nullarbor and the Strezleckie track.Approx. 2500 kms of sometimes very rough gravel road.
The car was superb.Totally reliable.Surefooted on the bad corrugations and in the bulldust.Did not even rattle.Engine temp remained at all times half
way between C and H.
In short,a tough and dependable bush tourer.Heaps of spa
Purchased at Grays for $13,000.
I love this car
Grand Vitara JB / JT.I (2005-2011)I love this car so much. We have had it 2nd hand for 4 years now and had no problems. We keep it well maintained and it loves us back. Great for off road camping, great around town, still easy to park, and good up the highway. We got a 4cyl 2L and it also tows a trailer very well. The tow bar we had fitted. Not so comfy for really long distance, but most travel is good. I'm short and I find the vision good. No awkward blind spots
Purchased in at Private for $9,500.
- Transmission: Manual
- Bought: Used
- Year: 2005
Author stated being incentivised for this review
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Serious engine problems
Grand Vitara JB / JT.I (2005-2011)At 150,000km the head cracked. Known fault detailed in a US Technical Bulletin (extended warranty in US - not Australia). Repair parts cost $2500. 4,000km later block cracked behind exhaust manifold.
Purchased in .
- Transmission: Manual
- Bought: New
- Year: 2009
Good little off-roader or city run-about
Grand Vitara JB / JT.II Sport Automatic (2011-2023)This is a real 4WD, thats why I bought it. Its the only small 4 door "real" 4WD available except for the Jeeps which have quality issues. It also handles well around town as its permanent AWD. The 4 speed automatic is basic, but strong & I leave mine on POWER mode for the later gear shifts & improved acceleration. Fuel economy is usually 10.7L/100km in the city but on country trips it can get down to 8L/100km. The higher fuel economy figures reflect the fact that its a real off-roader, weights 1.6 ton, has a truck ladder frame chassis as wel
... Read morel as heavy dual range gearing. I do some off-road work & it is very happy on 3 wheels, lose dirt, ruts as the traction control is very good to kick in & provide traction. I have not got it stuck off-road yet. If I was serious about off-road work I would get a 2 inch lift. I did not choose a larger Landcruiser Prado or Nissan Patrol as the parking for these cars is impossible in the city and diesel maintenance costs are higher, also the driving experience in the city is much more fun with the little Suzuki. For the limited off-road work I do the car is a perfect fit for me. The engine needs to be driven pretty hard to feel any good acceleration but thats standards for a car meant to be in the off-road situation or on snowy icy roads.- Badge: Sport
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- Transmission: Automatic
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- Date Purchased:
Cracked engine block
Grand Vitara JB / JT.I Prestige (2006-2011)Owned 2008 Prestige model for 5 years, @ 190 000 km and engine block cracked. Because of GFC in 2008 the alloy used to cast engine block is substandard and becoming well know to crack. Paid $20 000 for Grand Vitara 4-5 years ago, now being offered $500 from wreaker or $8 000 engine replacement.
- Badge: Prestige
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- Transmission: Automatic
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- Date Purchased:
Questions & Answers
I have a 2008 Grand Vitara 4x4 2.0 petrol.5 Door, Auto transmission.
I need to ascertain the kerb weight
Can I replace a 2.4 Lt with a v6 into a 2009 jb grand vitara
For an '09 you'd need the N32A 3.2lt engine (I believe there are some available on eBay). However, you would also need the 5-speed auto (the 3.2 is the only GV to get that transmission in that series of GVs), AND you'd need to transfer both engine and vehicle looms across with the V6 for it to work in the receiving vehicle. Honestly, you'd be better off looking for a later (2012-on) J24B to replace yours with...
2.7 V6 came with 5 speed auto . How do I know this ……Because I own 1 and know many other GV 2.7 owners with them
Get an answer from our members and Suzuki representatives
Details
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| Category | Midsize / Medium SUVs | Midsize / Medium SUVs | Midsize / Medium SUVs | Midsize / Medium SUVs |
| Starting Price | $33,990 | $28,990 | $28,990 | |
| Warranty Distance | 100,000 kms | 100,000 kms | 100,000 kms | 100,000 kms |
| Transmission | Automatic | Automatic | Manual | Automatic |
| Drive Type | Four Wheel Drive (4WD) | Four Wheel Drive (4WD) | Four Wheel Drive (4WD) | |
| Fuel Type | Petrol | Petrol | Petrol | Petrol |
| Wheels | 18" Alloy | 16" Alloy | 16" Alloy | 17" Alloy |
| Fuel Consumption | 9.9 L/100km | 9.6 L/100km | 8.8 L/100km | 11.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 55 L | 55 L | 55 L |
| Engine | 4 Cylinder 2.4L | 4 Cylinder 2.4L | 4 Cylinder 2.4L | 6 Cylinder 2.4L |
| Max Power | 122kW @ 6000rpm | 122kW @ 6000rpm | 122kW @ 6000rpm | |
| Max Torque | 225Nm @ 3800rpm | 225Nm @ 3800rpm | 225Nm @ 3800rpm | |
| Country of Manufacture | Japan | Japan | Japan | |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (braked) | 1,700 kg | 1,600 kg | 1,600 kg | 1,850 kg |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (unbraked) | 750 kg | 550 kg | 550 kg | |
| Manufacturer Warranty | 3 year(s) | 3 year(s) | 3 year(s) | 3 year(s) |
| Dimensions | ||||
| Kerb Weight | 1,567 kg | 1,459 kg | 1,459 kg | 1,653 kg |
| Ground Clearance | 200 mm | 200 mm | 200 mm | 200 mm |
| Release date | ||||
| Discontinuation date | ||||
Extra Information
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