A facelifted Suzuki Grand Vitara has been announced in Japan (where it’s known as the Escudo), ushering in a number of exterior updates, along with a special edition model.
Changes to the Escudo are largely cosmetic, with a new front bumper, revised grille and tinted headlights. The tailgate has also been redesigned, as a result of removing the spare tyre mount from the rear, which is now presumably relocated underneath the vehicle. Japanese models will reportedly make do with a puncture repair kit instead.
While the exterior benefits from an obvious set of updates, the interior appears largely untouched. The exception to this is a new special edition model called ‘X-Adventure’, which features red suede highlights on the seats, steering wheel and gear selector. Other highlights for the X-Adventure include: 18-inch wheels; chrome grille; privacy glass; rear spoiler and a sunroof.
Locally, the Suzuki Grand Vitara is powered by a 2.4-litre, 4-cylinder, petrol engine that produces 122 kW and 225 Nm of torque. The engine is mated to either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission that directs power to all four wheels. The cosmetic changes should reach South Africa in the near future, with the full-size spare tyre expected to remain in place.
