2005 Suzuki Grand Vitara 4 Dr LX SUV

This rear-wheel drive compact SUV comes in as the base trim, yet offers plenty of standard features. The 2005 Suzuki Grand Vitara LX is a four-door SUV with a body-on-frame chassis and front independent and solid live axle rear suspension. It is powered by a 24-valve, 2.5-liter DOHC V6 engine and choice of standard 5-speed manual or optional 4-speed automatic. This powertrain delivers 165-hp and 162 ft-lbs of torque at 4000 RPM, with an average fuel economy of 17/20 mpg. With an optional trailer hitch, the SUV can tow up to 1500 pounds.

The 2005 Grand Vitara LX earns four stars in frontal impact and five in side impact crash tests. 4-wheel disc brakes are standard and can be supplemented with optional 4-wheel ABS. Dual front airbags provide the only crash protection. Side curtain bags are not available for either row. Other safety-oriented equipment includes the 16-inch steel wheels with all-season tires, skid plates, automatic headlights, and daytime running lights.

Some of the more prominent features include power windows, locks, and heated mirrors, wheel-mounted cruise control, remote entry, a tachometer, tilt and power steering, an 8-speaker sound system with CD player, intermittent wipers, and automatic climate control. The instrument panel boasts electroluminescent gauges. Rear seats split-fold, expanding the 23.4 cubic foot cargo area to 50 cubic feet. Tiedowns and a cover are standard, but a net costs more. An included roof rack provides even more storage.