The Suzuki Grand Vitara (FT,GT) 2.0 TD (3 dr) (87 Hp): A Rugged Compact SUV for Global Markets
The Suzuki Grand Vitara, specifically the first-generation (FT,GT) produced between 1998 and 2003, represented a significant evolution for Suzuki in the compact SUV segment. Building on the success of its predecessor, the Vitara (known as Sidekick in North America), the Grand Vitara offered enhanced refinement, improved on-road manners, and retained the robust off-road capability Suzuki was renowned for. While various gasoline engines were offered globally, the Suzuki Grand Vitara (FT,GT) 2.0 TD (3 dr) (87 Hp) variant, featuring a turbocharged diesel engine, was a particularly important offering in European and Asian markets where diesel powertrains were highly favored for their torque, fuel efficiency, and durability. This three-door iteration emphasized agility and a more adventurous spirit, positioning it as a versatile vehicle capable of navigating both urban environments and challenging off-road trails.
During its production run, the Grand Vitara (FT,GT) solidified Suzuki’s reputation for building capable, no-nonsense SUVs that delivered real utility without an exorbitant price tag. The 2.0 TD model, in particular, catered to a demographic that valued low running costs and strong pulling power, characteristics inherent to diesel engines. Its compact dimensions and robust construction made it a popular choice for those seeking a practical daily driver that could also tackle weekend adventures with confidence. This article delves into the specifics of this particular model, exploring its engineering, design, and impact on the automotive landscape of its time.
Engineering and Performance of the Suzuki Grand Vitara (FT,GT) 2.0 TD (3 dr) (87 Hp)
Powertrain and Drivetrain
At the heart of the Suzuki Grand Vitara (FT,GT) 2.0 TD (3 dr) (87 Hp) lay a 2.0-liter (1998 cm³ or 121.93 cubic inches) inline four-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine, designated with the code RFM. This powerplant was engineered for reliability and torque, delivering 87 horsepower at 4000 rpm. While 87 horsepower might seem modest by contemporary standards, the true strength of this engine was its torque output: a healthy 216 Nm (159.31 lb.-ft.) available at a low 2000 rpm. This low-end torque was crucial for off-road driving, towing, and general utility, allowing the vehicle to pull strongly from a standstill or at low speeds without constant gear changes.
The engine featured a precombustion chamber injection system, a common technology for diesel engines of its era, known for promoting smoother combustion and reducing noise compared to direct injection systems of the time, albeit at a slight efficiency trade-off. A turbocharger further boosted performance, enhancing both power and torque output across the rev range. With a high compression ratio of 20.9:1, typical for diesel engines, the RFM unit was designed for efficient fuel consumption.
Power was delivered to all four wheels via a robust all-wheel-drive (4×4) system, paired with a 5-speed manual transmission. This combination provided the driver with direct control over power delivery, essential for navigating challenging terrain. The manual gearbox was well-suited to the engine’s torque characteristics, allowing the driver to keep the engine in its optimal power band.
Performance Metrics
Despite its primary focus on utility and off-road capability rather than outright speed, the Grand Vitara 2.0 TD offered respectable performance for its class. It could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 14.4 seconds, with a 0 to 100 km/h sprint taking 15.2 seconds. The top speed was rated at 142 km/h (88.23 mph). These figures indicate that the vehicle was adequately powered for highway cruising and overtaking, though its true forte lay in its ability to handle adverse conditions. The kerb weight of 2888.06 lbs (1310 kg) contributed to a weight-to-power ratio of 15.1 kg/Hp, or 66.4 Hp/tonne, further underscoring its utilitarian design.
Design and Features
Exterior and Interior
The Suzuki Grand Vitara (FT,GT) 2.0 TD (3 dr) (87 Hp) adopted a classic SUV silhouette, blending ruggedness with a touch of modern styling for its time. The 3-door body type, measuring 152.17 inches (3865 mm) in length, 66.73 inches (1695 mm) in width, and 66.34 inches (1685 mm) in height, emphasized its compact and agile nature. Its short wheelbase of 86.61 inches (2200 mm) was a key factor in its impressive off-road prowess, allowing for excellent breakover angles and maneuverability on tight trails, further aided by a minimum turning circle of 30.84 feet (9.4 meters).
Inside, the 3-door Grand Vitara was configured with four seats, providing comfortable accommodation for its size. While not designed for luxurious appointments, the interior was functional and durable, built to withstand the rigors of an active lifestyle. Practicality was a strong point, with a minimum trunk (boot) space of 7.42 cubic feet (210 liters), which could expand significantly to 29.24 cubic feet (828 liters) with the rear seats folded, offering ample cargo capacity for gear and luggage.
Chassis and Safety
The Grand Vitara (FT,GT) retained a traditional body-on-frame construction, a hallmark of true off-road vehicles, providing superior rigidity and durability compared to unibody designs, especially when tackling rough terrain. The suspension setup featured spring struts at the front and coil springs at the rear, a robust combination for both on-road comfort and off-road articulation. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and drum brakes at the rear, a common setup for compact SUVs of this vintage. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was included as an assisting system, enhancing safety by preventing wheel lock-up during hard braking. The steering system utilized a rack and pinion setup with hydraulic power steering, offering direct feedback and ease of maneuverability. The vehicle was fitted with 195/80 R15 tires on 15-inch wheel rims, a practical size for both on and off-road conditions.
Technical Specifications: Suzuki Grand Vitara (FT,GT) 2.0 TD (3 dr) (87 Hp)
| Category | Specification | Metric / US Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| General Information | ||
| Brand | Suzuki | – |
| Model | Grand Vitara | – |
| Generation | Grand Vitara (FT,GT) | – |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TD (3 dr) (87 Hp) | – |
| Production Start | 1998 year | – |
| Production End | 2003 year | – |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion Engine | – |
| Body Type | SUV | 3 Doors, 4 Seats |
| Seats | 4 | – |
| Doors | 3 | – |
| Performance Specs | ||
| Fuel Type | Diesel | – |
| Acceleration 0-60 mph | 14.4 sec | – |
| Acceleration 0-100 km/h | 15.2 sec | – |
| Maximum Speed | 142 km/h | 88.23 mph |
| Weight-to-Power Ratio | 15.1 kg/Hp | 66.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-Torque Ratio | 6.1 kg/Nm | 164.9 Nm/tonne |
| Engine Specs | ||
| Power | 87 Hp @ 4000 rpm | – |
| Power per Liter | 43.5 Hp/l | – |
| Torque | 216 Nm @ 2000 rpm | 159.31 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm |
| Engine Layout | Front, Longitudinal | – |
| Engine Model/Code | RFM | – |
| Engine Displacement | 1998 cm³ | 2.0 Liters / 121.93 cu. in. |
| Number of Cylinders | 4 | – |
| Engine Configuration | Inline | – |
| Cylinder Bore | 86 mm | 3.39 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 86 mm | 3.39 in. |
| Compression Ratio | 20.9:1 | – |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 | – |
| Fuel Injection System | Precombustion Chamber Injection | – |
| Engine Aspiration | Turbocharger | – |
| Engine Oil Capacity | 5.5 l | 5.81 US qt |
| Engine Oil Specification | Not specified | – |
| Coolant Capacity | 6.5 l | 6.87 US qt |
| Space, Volume and Weights | ||
| Kerb Weight | 1310 kg | 2888.06 lbs |
| Max. Weight | 1810 kg | 3990.37 lbs |
| Max Load | 500 kg | 1102.31 lbs |
| Trunk (Boot) Space – Minimum | 210 l | 7.42 cu. ft. |
| Trunk (Boot) Space – Maximum | 828 l | 29.24 cu. ft. |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 l | 14.79 US gal |
| Dimensions | ||
| Length | 3865 mm | 152.17 in. |
| Width | 1695 mm | 66.73 in. |
| Height | 1685 mm | 66.34 in. |
| Wheelbase | 2200 mm | 86.61 in. |
| Front Track | 1460 mm | 57.48 in. |
| Rear Track | 1460 mm | 57.48 in. |
| Minimum Turning Circle | 9.4 m | 30.84 ft. |
| Drivetrain, Brakes and Suspension Specs | ||
| Drive Wheel | All Wheel Drive (4×4) | – |
| Gearbox | 5 gears, Manual Transmission | – |
| Front Suspension | Spring Strut | – |
| Rear Suspension | Coil Spring | – |
| Front Brakes | Ventilated Discs | – |
| Rear Brakes | Drum | – |
| Assisting Systems | ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) | – |
| Steering Type | Steering Rack and Pinion | – |
| Power Steering | Hydraulic Steering | – |
| Tires Size | 195/80 R15 | – |
| Wheel Rims Size | 15 inches | – |
Legacy and Market Impact
The Suzuki Grand Vitara (FT,GT) series, and particularly the Suzuki Grand Vitara (FT,GT) 2.0 TD (3 dr) (87 Hp), carved out a significant niche in the global automotive market, especially in regions like Europe, Australia, and parts of Asia. In these markets, the demand for compact, capable, and fuel-efficient SUVs was high. Unlike some of its burgeoning crossover rivals such as the Toyota RAV4 or Honda CR-V, which leaned towards car-like unibody construction and more road-oriented performance, the Grand Vitara maintained Suzuki’s heritage of true off-road capability. Its body-on-frame chassis, proper 4×4 system, and short overhangs made it a far more competent vehicle when the pavement ended.
The 2.0 TD variant was particularly well-received where diesel fuel was readily available and often more affordable, and where its inherent advantages of high torque and better fuel economy were highly valued. For farmers, tradespeople, or adventure enthusiasts who needed a vehicle that could genuinely handle rough terrain, tow small trailers, and offer economical running costs, the diesel Grand Vitara was an ideal choice. Its robust construction also contributed to a reputation for durability and reliability, characteristics that Suzuki vehicles often embody.
Competitors in its segment varied by region but generally included vehicles like the Land Rover Freelander (first generation), Mitsubishi Pajero Pinin (Shogun Pinin), and various models from Hyundai and Kia, though few offered the same blend of compact size, genuine off-road credentials, and diesel power in the same price bracket. The Grand Vitara consistently offered a compelling value proposition, making it an accessible option for many who desired an SUV without the bulk or expense of larger models.
Its legacy is one of practicality, affordability, and genuine capability. The first-generation Grand Vitara, and specifically the 3-door diesel model, helped cement Suzuki’s position as a serious player in the compact SUV market, demonstrating that a vehicle could be small and efficient without compromising on ruggedness or the ability to venture off the beaten path. It remains a popular choice in used car markets for those seeking a reliable and straightforward 4×4, a testament to its enduring design and engineering.
