SUZUKI'S latest sports utility to be unveiled is a bit special... a new Grand Vitara with a V6 2.5-litre engine and the appropriate specification title of X-EC.

X-EC is how Suzuki rate the SUV, aimed as it is at the growing executive market for compact off-roaders. It has a completely revised engine and a generously uprated specification.

Slotting neatly between the Grand Vitara 2.0-litre five-door estate and the larger XL-7 2.7-litre V6, this new special edition will be available only in limited numbers, so exclusivity will be an important part of its appeal.

Prices start at £16,999 on-the-road for the manual transmission model and £17,949 for the automatic.

On top of the already generously equipped Grand Vitara five-door specification comes climate control, multi-spoke alloy wheels and front fog lamps.

The interior also takes on an added air of sophistication with a stylish two-tone grey colour scheme and leather upholstery that is complemented by wood-effect trim on the fascia and centre.

On the outside the stylish X-EC is distinguished by a unique body colour - Azure grey pearl metallic - while a tailgate spoiler, silver painted roof rails, chrome-plated door handles and grille, and body-coloured spare wheel cover give the new model a specification leg-up over its sister Grand Vitara models which include three and five-door petrol and diesel variants. A special X-EC badge naturally rounds off the whole package.

At the heart of the X-EC model is an advanced, all-aluminium V6 engine closely related to the 2.7-litre unit powering Suzuki's larger Grand Vitara XL-7.

Lightweight and compact, the 2,493cc DOHC V6 24-valve unit delivers an outstanding power-to-weight ratio, with peak output of 158PS (116kW) arriving at 6,200rpm. The engine is supremely flexible, and 153lb/ft (208Nm) developed at 3,500rpm ensures plenty of low speed pulling power.

Those figures are reflected in a competitive combined fuel consumption of 27.7mpg, while the X-EC has a maximum braked trailer towing capacity of 1,850kg in common with other five-door models.

The engine's advanced specification with its direct drive valve train provides more power and quicker response throughout the rev range as well as keeping fuel consumption down. Special technical efforts have also been made to keep engine noise to a minimum.

The X-EC package comes as standard, of course, with the Grand Vitara's rugged looks and a go-anywhere capability to match. A Drive Select 4x4 system which can be brought into play when driving in a straight line at speeds up to 62mph, a tough ladder frame chassis and long travel suspension combine with the new high torque engine to provide good off-road performance.

The Grand Vitara philosophy, however, is also about refined travelling and spacious accommodation and a comfortable, well-equipped cabin are part of the package.

A large luggage area, numerous storage areas throughout the cabin, power steering, electric windows and mirrors, radio/CD player, separate folding/reclining rear seats, steering-wheel mounted audio controls and remote central locking are all included as part of the Grand Vitara experience.

The X-EC qualifies for an insurance group rating of 14D and is on sale now. All Suzuki models are covered by Suzuki Shield, a three years'/60,000 mile new vehicle warranty, by Suzuki Assistance, providing 24-hour UK and European roadside assistance, recovery and associated services for 36 months and by a six or 12 year perforation warranty.

<bullet/> Suzukis available locally from Glen Garage, 12-14 Hawthorne Grove, Heworth, York . Telephone 01904 425800

Updated: 09:42 Friday, August 13, 2004