Next-Gen Suzuki Grand Vitara Could be Based on New Vitara’s Platform

Andrew Moore, General Manager for Suzuki Australia, told the publication that there was a push within Suzuki to develop an all-new Grand Vitara. Countries such as Australia, New Zealand, parts of Europe and certain Latin American markets are reported to be leading in the push for a next generation model.

Rather than develop an all-new platform, the new Grand Vitara could ride on an extended version of the monocoque front-wheel drive platform of the Vitara compact SUV. The extended length could add a third row of seats, giving the Grand Vitara an edge over competitors like the Honda CR-V and Mazda CX-5.

Mr. Moore said that once plans for a successor were confirmed, it would take a further 3-4 years to see the SUV on roads, owing to development and engineering processes. Mr. Moore also suggested that Suzuki could make use of the current Grand Vitara’s rear-wheel drive platform, and a build a new top-hat, as the current model had established itself in towing capacity, and all-terrain drivability.