For 1999 Suzuki has introduced the all-new Grand Vitara and Vitara models. They replace the Sidekick in the lineup.

The Grand Vitara gets a new steel-ladder-box frame that uses body-on-frame construction on a 97.6-inch wheelbase. That gives it an overall length of 164.6 inches. The all-new chassis features a MacPherson-strut front suspension that uses coil springs and low-pressure, gas-filled shock absorbers. The Grand Vitara features rack-and-pinion steering instead of the old circulating-ball steering on the Sidekick.

The Grand Vitara comes in two- and four-wheel-drive models that are identically equipped, with anti-lock brakes available as an option on both. Four-wheel-drive models have a low range for serious off-roading, and shift-on-the-fly allows the driver to switch from two- to four-wheel drive at any speed below 62 mph. The Grand Vitara gets a 2.5-liter 24-valve V-6 engine that is rated at 155 horsepower (hp) and 160 lb-ft of torque. A five-speed manual transmission is standard; a four-speed automatic with overdrive is available as an option.

The regular Vitara is available in two- and four-door models. The four-door model comes with a standard 2.0-liter 16-valve dual-overhead-cam engine rated at 127 hp and 134 lb-ft of torque. The two-door is a sporty soft-top and comes standard with a 1.6-liter 16-valve four-cylinder engine that produces 97 hp and 103 lb-ft of torque; the 2.0-liter engine is optional.

All models come with a five-speed manual transmission as standard equipment; a four-speed automatic is available as an option.

The Esteem sedan and wagon share several changes. One is a new front-end design and an all-new contemporary chrome grille. In March, both get a new, more powerful 1.8-liter 16-valve double overhead-cam engine that will replace the 1.6-liter engine. This new engine is rated at 122 hp and 117 lb-ft of torque. All models will feature a more refined cloth interior.

The Swift hatchback subcompact is unchanged.