Vitara

Vitara is a name used by the Suzuki Motor Corporation for a line of compact to subcompact crossover SUVs. The model line was introduced in 1988 as a small, five‑door vehicle designed for both on‑road practicality and light off‑road capability. Over the years, the Vitara has been sold in many markets under different names, including the Escudo in Japan and, in some North American markets, the Geo Tracker and later the Chevrolet Tracker under a GM‑Suzuki collaboration. A larger derivative known as the Grand Vitara was introduced in the late 1990s and shared some platforms and styling cues with the Vitara.

The Vitara has appeared in several generations, with each update bringing new styling, interiors, and drivetrain options. Early models emphasized rugged, compact SUV utility, with available four‑wheel drive, while later generations broadened to more urban crossover characteristics, improved ride quality, and modern safety electronics.

Engines have varied by market, typically including petrol inline‑four engines around 1.6 to 1.8 liters, with diesel options offered in some regions. In recent years Suzuki has offered turbocharged petrol engines and, in some markets, mild-hybrid systems as part of the Vitara lineup.

In India, the Vitara name exists as Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza, a subcompact SUV introduced in the mid‑2010s and built on a derivative of the global Vitara platform.

Today the Vitara family continues to be produced by Suzuki and remains a significant part of the company’s global lineup in the compact SUV segment.