2008 Suzuki Grand Vitara Base

This rear-wheel-drive compact SUV may be the starter trim in the lineup, but it comes loaded with features. The 2008 Grand Vitara Base rides on a four-wheel independent suspension, with a Macpherson front strut and multilink rear suspension and 16-inch wheels with all-season tires. A 2.7-liter, 24-valve, DOHC V6 gets 185 hp and 184 ft-lbs of torque at 4,500 RPM and is paired with either a 5-speed manual or automatic. Towing capacity maxes out at 3,000 pounds. For 2008, the Base adds a standard tire monitor and a remote gas door release.

Earning four stars in frontal impact and five in side impact crash tests, the 2008 Grand Vitara Base is fully equipped with 4-wheel disc and ABS brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution, traction and stability control, rollover sensors, automatic halogen headlamps, and dual front-side and side curtain airbags for both rows. Comfort and convenience is taken care of by power windows, locks, and mirrors, wheel-mounted cruise and audio controls for the CD/MP3 player, remote entry, and a trip computer. A tachometer, temperature display, and compass reside on the dash. Intermittent front and rear wipers, automatic climate control, three power outlets (including one in the cargo area), and six cupholders round out the features. The folding rear seats also recline, and the cargo capacity increases from 24.4 to 69 cubic feet. Tie-downs, a net, and a soft cover are standard, and a hard cover costs extra.

Other extras come from the dealer and include an iPod jack, Bluetooth, side step rails and running boards, a rear spoiler, and a tow hitch. Satellite radio, a 6-CD changer, and foglights are other options for the 2008 Grand Vitara Base.