Toad, questions Suzuki Vitara

[MorrieC]

What are your thoughts of a 2006 Suzuki Grand Vitara as a toad. I'm not sure how much we will be towing and I don't want to spend a large amount on a toad to find out that we don't use it. I have found this Suzuki Vitara with low miles and good shape for its age at a reasonable price. Is this vehicle a tow vehicle?

I would like a Jeep Wrangler but the price is considerably more so

[RayJr]

Suzuki is a great toad we have had a few models over the years and have been using a XL7 since 2005 with 2 cross country trips and unknown number of Florida runs from NJ under it's belt without a problem. I think the only requirement would be 4 wheel drive with a transfer case with a neutral position. Read the owners manual to make sure.

[theroc]

Welcome to the forum.

The Grand Vitaras in the 2005 to 2009 range were very well rated ...believe it or not as some Suzukis have not had a good reputation. The Grand Vitara has in that age range has very good crash test ratings (--go HERE) and has relatively good reliability ratings. It will be made in Japan --a plus, IMO. It's also a very good-looking vehicle. It has very good reviews on Edmunds --go HERE and cars.com --go HERE

RayJr is correct, to be flat towed, it must be a model with "4WD with a transfer switch" ...go HERE for the page of the manual from the '06-'12 that explains the procedure for "recreational towing."

They were "officially approved" for 4-down recreational towing by Suzuki so would be listed in the "dinghy towing guides" that were published back then --go HERE for the 2006 Motorhome Magazine dinghy towing guide ...see page 28 but as you will notice, a Grand Vitara is being towed behind a motorhome in the cover illustration!

IMO, it will be an excellent vehicle for a toad.