While the 2013 Suzuki Grand Vitara
boasts some off-roading capabilities, drivers often complained that the discontinued compact SUV lacked enough power performance to make it off the trail. After coming out in 1988, the Vitara transformed into the redesigned Grand Vitara by the third generation in 2005. Though the compact SUV is capable of handling some light off-roading adventures thanks to standard features like stability and traction control, serious off-roaders might want to look elsewhere.
Ready to learn more about the last Grand Vitara? Jerry
, the #1-rated car insurance
comparison super app
, is here with a guide to the 2013 Suzuki Grand Vitara’s off-road capabilities. We’ll take a look at all the important factors—from ground clearance to torque — along with some off-roading alternatives to the Grand Vitara. Can the 2013 Suzuki Grand Vitara go off-road?
Yes, for the most part. While the latest Suzuki Grand Vitara does have some capacity for off-roading, it wasn’t designed for extremely rigorous adventures off the beaten path. But for a compact SUV, it can hold its own compared to other vehicles in this segment.
Starting at $19,949, the 2013 Grand Vitara is capable of occasional off-roading when equipped with all-wheel drive, but you should still proceed with caution.
What else does the Suzuki Grand Vitara provide for the casual off-roader? Let’s take a look at some of the compact SUV’s essential specs.
Ground clearance
When it comes to serious off-roading, ground clearance or ride height is a must to prevent damage to the undercarriage of your vehicle. And the 2013 Suzuki Grand Vitara’s minimum ground clearance is 7.9 inches — which makes it a risky choice for an off-road vehicle.
When you’re venturing off into unknown territories, you’ll generally want to go with a heavy-duty vehicle that has a ground clearance of over 8.8 inches. Keep in mind that the higher the distance is between your vehicle to the ground, the better your vehicle can handle any unpredictable road conditions that might come your way. Unfortunately, the Grand Vitara misses the ground clearance mark by 0.9 inches.
Torque
Another must for off-road worthy vehicles? Low-end torque, also known as high amounts of torque at lower rpm. Serious off-road warriors know it’s all about turning power when it comes to dominating rugged road conditions so it’s vital to take torque into consideration.
The 2013 Grand Vitara’s 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine gets a maximum torque of 162 @ 4000 RPM. This isn’t exactly enough power for intense off-roading trips, which makes the compact SUV less than ideal for taking the road less traveled.
Tires
The 2013 Grand Vitara comes with P225/70R16 tires—what does this mean exactly? They are all-season tires that offer enough traction when you’re driving through various weather and road conditions. But all-terrain tires
are where it’s at for off-road vehicles in terms of more traction and stability when you’re driving through rough and bumpy terrain. 
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Drivetrain
Rear-wheel drive is standard across all 2013 Grand Vitara trim levels. However, the mid-grade Premium trim comes available with all-wheel drive, while the highest Limited trim offers a four-wheel-drive system. When it comes to extreme off-roading, AWD and 4WD are required for the best off-road experience.
Angles
Off-roading is all about angles:
Approach angle: The maximum angle your vehicle can ascend without conflict
Departure angle: The maximum angle your vehicle can descend without conflict
The 2013 Grand Vitara has an approach angle of 29 degrees and a departure angle of 27 degrees. Compared to other compact SUVs, this is actually enough to tackle some steep climbs! But save the serious inclines and dips for heavy-duty off-roaders like the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon
with an approach angle of 47.4 degrees and a departure angle of 40.4 degrees. Off-road rating: In a Pinch
We’ve ranked the 2013 Suzuki Grand Vitara using Jerry’s
DIRT rating system, which is broken down in the table below: | | |
|---|
| | Vehicles better suited to highway conditions |
| | Vehicles that can handle off-road conditions in certain circumstances |
| | Vehicles designed for casual off-roading |
| | True off-road vehicles capable of tackling a range of terrain |
Based on the specs above, the 2013 Suzuki Grand Vitara receives an “I” rating. While it’s certainly capable of some casual off-roading exploring thanks to its available AWD and 4WD drivetrains and acceptable approach and departure angles, its ground clearance is a cause for concern. If you’re looking for a tough road warrior for severe off-roading without causing damage to the underbelly of your vehicle, you’ll have to keep looking.
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Start earning nowThe best off-road alternatives to the 2013 Suzuki Grand Vitara
How does the 2013 Suzuki Grand Vitara stand against the competition? Here are a couple of other compact SUVs to consider:
| | | |
|---|
Best fuel-efficient alternative | | | The 2022 Fiat 500X receives a combined 30 mpg while the Grand Vitara only gets a combined 22 mpg. |
Best performance alternative | | | Where the Grand Vitara lacks in power, the MINI E Countryman, specifically the performance-oriented John Cooper Works trim, makes it up with a peppy 301-hp turbo 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. |
MORE: Cheap off-road trucks
How to find affordable car insurance for off-road vehicles
Considering the additional risk factors of off-roading, one of the major drawbacks to owning an off-road-ready vehicle is that they may end up costing you more to insure. But don’t worry — car insurance comparison super app Jerry
can help you find the lowest rates around. Get started by downloading the Jerry app. In less than one minute, you’ll have access to several customized quotes from dozens of top providers. Once you pick your favorite rate, Jerry’s team will take care of the rest without any unnecessary phone calls or additional paperwork on your part.
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