The Grand Vitara is the third model in the series, but the basic concept has remained the same since the debut of the first model in 1988. This concept can be encapsulated in the phrase: "Bringing higher performance to the urban cross-country vehicle". At the same time, the production team's unifying goal throughout was to produce a vehicle that would take Suzuki's reputation for excellent four-mode 4X4 drivability to new heights.

Under a product development concept of "off-road athlete" in the same way athletes rigorously train to excel in a wide range of demanding situations. The goal was straightforward: Improve on the real all-road mastery, efficient performance, practical urbanity, and the ease of use people have come to associate with the Grand Vitara series. Suzuki's heritage of producing sporty 4X4 vehicles with real off-road capabilities provided the DNA; advanced automotive engineering, the breeding.

The Grand Vitara's 4-mode 4x4 system transmits power to all four wheels at all times, ensuring positive traction regardless of road surface. A switch built into the centre console lets you quickly and easily change modes between 4H for most driving conditions, 4H Lock for serious off-roading, 4L Lock for extreme surface conditions, and N (neutral) mode, specifically intended for motor home owners wishing to take along an SUV on camping trips to use as a runabout. Switching to N-mode frees the transmission for safe and effortless towing of the Grand Vitara.