Kyron I vs Grand Vitara II (JT): which is better?
SsangYong Kyron I (2005–2015) vs Suzuki Grand Vitara II (JT) (2005–2015): specs, fuel economy, tax and common problems.
SsangYong Kyron I
Suzuki Grand Vitara II (JT)Specifications
| SsangYong Kyron I | Suzuki Grand Vitara II (JT) | |
|---|---|---|
| Production years | 2005–2015 | 2005–2015 |
| Body | SUV | SUV |
| Fuel | diesel | petrol |
| Engines | 2.0 diesel | 2.0 |
| Power, up to | 141 hp | 140 hp |
| Torque, up to | 310 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Gearbox | automatic | automatic |
| Drive | all-wheel drive | all-wheel drive |
| Length | 4 660 mm | 4 470 mm |
| Width | 1 880 mm | 1 810 mm |
| Height | 1 755 mm | 1 695 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2 740 mm | 2 640 mm |
| Ground clearance | 199 mm | 200 mm |
| Fuel tank | 75 L | 66 L |
| KZ tax 2026 (car under 10 years) | ≈ 16 475 ₸ | ≈ 16 475 ₸ |
The better value is highlighted in green.
Pros, cons and common problems
SsangYong Kyron I
Pros
- Gearbox Mercedes 722.x (4–5-speed automatic): very reliable
- All-wheel-drive versions available
- Large tank: 75 L
Cons
- SsangYong D20DT/D20DTR engine (2.0 diesel): injectors and injection pump on poor fuel
- Gearbox Mercedes 722.x (4–5-speed automatic): leaking connector adapter and wiring
- Modest power: up to 141 hp
Engine (SsangYong D20DT/D20DTR (2.0 diesel)): injectors and injection pump on poor fuel; EGR valve carbon buildup; turbo wear at high mileage.
Gearbox (Mercedes 722.x (4–5-speed automatic)): very reliable; leaks from the connector adapter and wiring.
Suzuki Grand Vitara II (JT)
Pros
- All-wheel-drive versions available
- Conventional automatic, no robotized gearbox or CVT
- High ground clearance: 200 mm
Cons
- Suzuki J20A/J24B engine (2.0–2.4): timing chain stretch at high mileage
- Modest power: up to 140 hp
Engine (Suzuki J20A/J24B (2.0–2.4)): timing chain stretch at high mileage; oil leaks from the valve cover gasket and seals.
Which one to choose
- Kyron I — if you care more about: power, torque, wheelbase, fuel tank.
- Grand Vitara II (JT) — if you care more about: ground clearance.
The condition of a specific car matters more than the model: check the service history and get the engine and gearbox inspected before buying.
FAQ
Which is more powerful: Kyron I or Grand Vitara II (JT)?
Kyron I: up to 141 hp, Grand Vitara II (JT): up to 140 hp.
Which has more ground clearance?
Kyron I: 199 mm, Grand Vitara II (JT): 200 mm.
What is the vehicle tax in Kazakhstan?
For 2026, for a car under 10 years old: Kyron I — about 16 475 ₸, Grand Vitara II (JT) — about 16 475 ₸ (base engine). A 0.7 factor applies to cars aged 10–20 years and 0.5 to cars over 20.