This distinctively styled, tall-roof compact sedan and sporty SX hatchback received a mid-cycle update last year that included a revised front bumper and grille, fog lamps, and new alloy wheels, with a freshened instrument panel, steering wheel and center console inside. For 2006, the Aerio receives a new standard CD/MP3 audio system, with Suzuki's QuadGrip all-wheel-drive system now available on all models. Both versions come powered by a 155-horsepower, 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine that's fitted to a choice of either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. A four-wheel independent suspension contributes to a sportier feel than with many small cars. Antilock brakes, front side airbags, air conditioning, keyless entry, fog lamps, power mirrors and windows, a rear defroster, and tilt steering wheel all come standard on the base model, with, a CD changer, cruise control, and larger wheels and tires offered on Premium versions. No factory options are available.
Forenza
Available in compact sedan and station wagon versions, the Korean-built Forenza features revised front-end styling for 2006, along with new wheels and an updated interior. In addition, the Forenza now comes in a simplified trim level structure. With attractive exterior styling that's been penned by the Italian design firm Pininfarina, the Forenza's 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine produces 127-horsepower, and drives the front wheels via either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. It rides on MacPherson struts up front and a dual-link suspension in the rear, with variable-assist power steering and four-wheel disc brakes. Front and front-side airbags are standard across the line. Air conditioning, a CD stereo and power locks, windows, and heated mirrors are standard on the base Forenza, with antilock brakes, cruise control, fog lamps, keyless entry, and a power sunroof available on the Premium version. No factory options are available.
Grand Vitara
Redesigned for 2006, the Grand Vitara gains a healthy dose of refinement but with a twist. The new Grand Vitara rides on a car-like, unibody frame, but in this case it's beefed up with a built-in ladder frame to imbue it with added off-road toughness. Still, the unibody construction, along with a fully independent suspension makes for kinder, gentler ride and handling characteristics than the previous truck-based generation could muster. Power comes from a 3.4-liter V-6 engine that generates 185 horsepower and 210 pound-feet of torque, with a choice of a five-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission. An available, dual-range, four-wheel-drive system includes a two-speed transfer case with low-range gearing for off-road use, along with a fully automatic single-mode version. Front-side and side-curtain airbags are offered, along with anti-lock brakes with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, and stability and traction control systems. The Grand Vitara is offered in one trim level with three optional equipment packages offered.
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