The vehicle that started out an entire trend for sporty dirt machines has sadly been overtaken by many newer arrivals, like the Honda SR-V or Land Rover’s Freelander.

Provided with a range of engines from the puny 1.6 to a useful and smooth V6, with a choice of two wheelbases, the Grand Vitara has the capacity to offer something for many buyers.

On-road the vehicle can feel just a little vague, but it’s extremely capable dirt, thanks to a classy transmission system including locking front differential hubs. Equipment levels are good/build quality likewise.