| New Special Edition | Suzuki Grand Vitara X-EC |

Suzuki's acclaimed Grand Vitara range is to receive a special edition version called the Grand Vitara X-EC. Standard equipment now includes keyless entry, a leather steering wheel and grippy Alcantara material on the seats. Suzuki has also added an electric sunroof, automatic climate control, MP3 compatibility, fog lamps and heated electric mirrors. Even a Trafficmaster satnav with a free twelve month subscription to live traffic updates is standard.

Setting it apart from other models in the range, the X-EC will be finished in Azure Grey Pearl metallic paint and features 17-inch 10-spoke alloys as well as silver bonnet detailing.

A choice of two engines will power this Grand Vitara: a 2.0-litre petrol unit - with either a five-speed manual or optional four-speed auto 'box (an extra £1,000) - will be offered alongside a 1.9-litre DDiS diesel engine in manual only. Whilst being more powerful with 138bhp, the petrol unit loses out on the fuel economy front, using some 32.1mpg opposed to the diesel's more frugal 37.2mpg on combined fuel cycle. With an automatic transmission, the petrol falls slightly further behind.

At £18,499 the 127bhp diesel and £16,999 2.0-litre petrol X-ECs are cheaper than similarly powered rivals such as the Honda CR-V, which is around £6,000 more expensive. With Suzuki's all-wheel independent suspension and four-wheel drive system working with a locking centre diff, the Grand Vitara should be more capable off-road too.

Kyle Molyneux - 2 Nov 2007