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Defining ‘tough’ with Suzuki’s Grand Vitara

Zest Magazine takes a closer look at Suzuki’s Grand Vitara 2.4L A/T.

Published

9 years ago

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And to think I already thought Suzuki’s Jimny was (somewhat) rugged (in a nice kind of way). But then came along the Grand Vitara, a somewhat mean-looking/performing vehicle, and, well… I’ll have to do some reconsidering.








On the outside, the car actually looks… Spartan (if not – to be very blunt – common).

Yes, I’d say that just as expected from Suzuki, this one is also not boxy, and its curves give it a sporty appearance. This is “helped” by the car’s 188mm ground clearance (thank you 17-inch alloy wheels!) that give one that (driver’s) feeling of being an overlord (i.e. that “I’m taller than you all!” feeling). But there’s nothing… memorable on the outside of the Grand Vitara for me, even if it has an extra pair of fog lamps, third break light, silver accents to the car’s side and up top for the roof rails, signal repeaters installed on the side mirrors, and (at the rear) a coy pair of tail lights on the opposite sides of the 5th door (where the cover for the spare tire and door handle have the same shade as the body).

Some say it’s “minimalist”; and that it’s not “calling attention to itself” (unlike, say, Jeep’s Wrangler, or even Suzuki’s Swift). I’d still say… “usual”.

It is in the inside where, for me, the Grand Vitara starts to become somewhat more… ostentatious.








The seats are fabric upholstered; but unlike, say, Ertiga, this one (from the get go) seems to say it’s okay being messed with, with its dark-colored everything (dark seats, and black leather with pale trimmings on the doors). Akin to Ciaz, the stereo controls are embedded on the tilting/telescoping steering wheel. The (I have to say somewhat big, particularly when you first see it) dashboard is segmented into three “parts” to show the tachometer, speedometer and fuel/temperature gauges. There are also stats for real-time fuel mileage, average fuel consumption, and distance showing an estimate of how many kms the car can still cover before you run out of juice. There’s a touchscreen Android-run player (again, similar to Ciaz), connectivity ports stuffed inside the glove compartment (these don’t work, though, if that radio’s turned off), and dual 12V sockets.

The legroom was great for both front and back; but the headroom’s not that great at the back (surprising considering the car IS big inside).

The fifth door at the back reveals the luggage space. This isn’t big; but it suffices…

BTW, from the driver’s seat, I have one “issue”. The overall feel of the car is “sturdy”, with everything seemingly constructed firmly/thickly. This is – generally speaking – A-OK for me; but while driving, this “thickness” was also troublesome for me as it had that tendency to cover up my line of vision, particularly as far as approaching vehicles at my left are concerned…






Performance-wise, the Grand Vitara more than sufficed for me, thanks I should say to its 2.4-liter engine (the 16-valve DOHC engine also comes with variable valve timing or VVT).

For instance, I drove the car to:

  1. Cape Santiago in Batangas, where – while heading there – one wrong turn means needing to brave rocky roads. Though the car felt “big”, it fit even tight spots (e.g. that “bridge” from the main road going to Cape Santiago’s lighthouse). It was also able to tackle unpaved roads there…
  2. Lake Pandin in San Pablo, Laguna, a somewhat new tourist attraction that doesn’t have the best roads (yet). Similar to the Cape Santiago experience, the Grand Vitara survived the trip.
  3. Lucena City from Tagaytay via Talisay-Tanauan Road. If you’re familiar with this route, you’d know that driving here means braving very STEEP and very NARROW roads. Grand Vitara didn’t choke (not even once) climbing or going downhill…
  4. Luisiana, Laguna (to buy the famed bibingka), where the car was able to survive numerous turns, twists and bumps.

There are two issues I encountered re Grand Vitara that are worth mentioning.

On the one hand, it’s a bit of greedy with fuel consumption (in my experience, just 325kms from full tank to nil), averaging around 8km/L fuel consumption (for combined city and out-of-town driving).

On the other hand, while the Grand Vitara had no issues accelerating (even when climbing steep slopes), it did have issues with turning corners. If you’re familiar with the way many roads are expanded in smaller towns/provinces, you’d know that some of these expansions are done STUPIDLY – i.e. the roads are widened, but the electric poles, giant trees, et cetera are retained right in the middle of the expanded parts. When in these roads, therefore, overtaking may mean hitting a pole in the middle of the road. And with the Grand Vitara’s issue re cornering, this (for me) proved challenging…

All in all, for those looking for a “sturdy” car sans any of the dramas (e.g. “sexy”, “butch”, and so on), then the Grand Vitara is definitely worth considering. This one can make one confident while being on the road…

The Suzuki Grand Vitara comes in: Superior White, Silky Silver Metallic, Quasar Grey Metallic, Bluish Black Pearl and Bison Brown Pearl Metallic. It is available in two variants: Grand Vitara 2.4L – A/T, which sells for P1,160,000; and Special Edition 2.4L – A/T, which sells for P1,210,000.








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M.D. dela Cruz Tan is the founder of Zest Magazine. And no, the initials (i.e. M.D.) do not make him a "medical doctor" (as many have erroneously thought in the past); he is actually a graduate of Bachelor of Arts (Communication Studies) of the University of Newcastle in New South Wales Australia (just don't ask when, he says), and Master of Development Communication from the University of the Philippines-Open University. He can: photograph, do artworks with mixed media, write (of course), shoot flicks, community-organize, facilitate, lecture, research (with pioneering studies under his belt)... this one's a multi-tasker, who is even conversant in Filipino Sign Language. Cross his path is the dare (read: It won't be boring).

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Sarap ng Pasko, Sarap ng Purefoods

Purefoods helps families celebrate cherished traditions, new additions this holiday season.

Published

4 months ago

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December 19, 2025

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In a country of more than 7,600 islands, Christmas in the Philippines is celebrated in many ways, varying across the regions through traditions that have remained through generations, along with new iterations that reflect the growing diversity among Filipino families.

Today’s Christmas celebrations in Filipino households range from grand gatherings among extended families, along with OFW households, dual-income no kids (DINKs) couples, single parents, and same-gender partners who are marking the season in their own meaningful way. Through it all, the desire to gather, to share, and to connect remains at the heart of each celebration. 

Feast for Filipino families

This holiday season, Purefoods recognizes both the traditions that have been passed down through generations, along with the new meaningful ones that we create along the way. Around the Noche Buena table, families remember the Christmases past, while embracing the present, and celebrating what brings them together.

Whether its recipes that have been handed down through many generations, or new dishes to celebrate the joy of togetherness, Purefoods provides a wide range of products to make every holiday meal more memorable.

As a legacy brand with generations-long trusted consistency in quality and taste, Purefoods products have long been a part of occasions that matter most to Filipino families. The different Purefoods products help make homecooked Noche Buena feasts easier and more enjoyable. What’s more, the products are easily available in supermarkets, groceries, and markets to support different regional traditions and unique family celebrations across the country.

As part of its mission to spread Christmas cheer, Purefoods turned the homecoming of OFWs into a full-blown holiday celebration this December, taking center stage at the newly refreshed Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 just as its new facilities officially opened. Seizing this landmark moment, the “Sarap ng Pasko, Sarap ng Purefoods” installation at the Arrival area and a dazzling LED display at the new Mezzanine Food Hall transformed the terminal into a festive gateway home, filling arrivals with warmth, joy, and inspiration to create new Christmas memories with their loved ones through food.

Food that is lovingly prepared and joyfully shared is at the core of every Christmas celebration. No matter how Filipino families celebrate, Purefoods helps bring the joy of the season to every table.

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Christmas reunions made more joyful with Magnolia Chicken Timplados, #SarapMadeEasy

Magnolia Chicken Timplados makes meals that are easy to prepare and comes in flavorful options, removing the stress out of meal preparation. Just cook and it’s ready to be served in minutes.

Published

5 months ago

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December 1, 2025

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With the Christmas season in, one of the most anticipated moments for many people is the Christmas reunion – a time when family and friends gather to celebrate and reconnect. However, the idea of preparing a delicious Christmas feast can be overwhelming and can lead to stress. Between planning the menu, grocery shopping, and cooking, it’s easy to feel like the holidays are more about hustle than a joyful celebration.

That is why Magnolia Chicken Timplados makes meals that are easy to prepare and comes in flavorful options, removing the stress out of meal preparation. Just cook and it’s ready to be served in minutes! Whether it’s Fried Chicken or Smoked Pepper Roasted Chicken, it is made with quality, real chicken, that’s sure to win hearts at any Christmas reunion feast, bringing families and friends together over meals filled with joy, flavor, and festive warmth.

  • Fried Chicken: Magnolia Fried Chicken delivers golden, delicious and crispy goodness right to your Christmas table. A classic favorite because it is simple yet celebratory, Magnolia Fried Chicken captures the heart of Christmas cooking: togetherness, indulgence, and the joy of sharing something made with love. It is perfect for family feasts or holiday get-togethers with friends because it’s pre-marinated, just coat with breading and deep fry. It saves a lot of time and energy, keeping your cooking hassle-free.
  • Smoked Pepper Roasted Chicken: What better way to enjoy the holidays than by savoring an aromatic, hearty roasted chicken? Magnolia Smoked Pepper Roasted Chicken brings a classic favorite to an entirely new level! What makes it special is its bold yet balanced flavor – the smoky aroma mingling with sweet, caramelized skin, the sharp bite of pepper meeting the natural richness of roast chicken. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet sophisticated enough for entertaining guests. There’s no need to worry about the tiresome task of seasoning the chicken and marinating overnight, as it can be cooked straight in the oven or air fryer. It is a special delight for everyone to enjoy, especially during gatherings around the table with loved ones.

With ready to cook Magnolia Chicken Timplados, it’s possible to enjoy a delectable holiday meal without the chaos of traditional cooking. Sarap Super Moms and Timplanners can spend less time worrying about the kitchen, leaving more time to create happy and unforgettable moments to cherish with loved ones.

Lasapin ang #SarapMadeEasy meals this Christmas with Magnolia Chicken Timplados! #CountlessMomentsEndlessGoodness

To learn more about Magnolia Ready-to-Cook Chicken Timplados, visit magnoliachicken.com or follow Magnolia Chicken on social media.

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Sip the magic of Christmas with Seattle’s Best S’mores Ghirardelli Collection

Each drink captures the comforting spirit of Christmas with rich chocolate indulgence and a touch of sweetness that feels like a cozy holiday hug.

Published

5 months ago

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November 12, 2025

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There’s something about S’mores that brings people together—melting chocolate, toasted marshmallows, and moments that feel like home. This holiday season, Seattle’s Best Coffee and Ghirardelli are turning that warmth into a cup with the S’mores Collection Made with Ghirardelli. Each drink captures the comforting spirit of Christmas with rich chocolate indulgence and a touch of sweetness that feels like a cozy holiday hug.

Starting November 2025, chocolate lovers can indulge in this limited-edition collection in Seattle’s Best Coffee stores nationwide and via GrabFood and FoodPanda.

What Makes the S’mores Collection Special?

  • A Taste of Comfort – Inspired by the familiar joy of S’mores, each drink blends marshmallow sweetness, velvety chocolate, and bold coffee warmth for that fireside feeling—no campfire needed.
  • Premium Collaboration – Made with Ghirardelli’s signature chocolate and Seattle’s Best bold espresso, delivering a smooth, indulgent coffee experience that feels festive and luxurious.
  • Crafted for Every Craving – From hot to iced to blended, there’s a S’mores drink for every holiday mood, perfect for sharing cozy moments or treating yourself to something special.

Find Your Perfect Holiday Match

Whether you’re sipping by the tree, catching up with friends, or gifting yourself a well-deserved break, there’s a S’mores Collection drink for every kind of Christmas craving.

  • Hot S’mores Ghirardelli – Cozy up with this comforting blend of Ghirardelli chocolate powder, rich espresso, and creamy marshmallow meringue, topped with a dark chocolate drizzle and crushed graham cracker. It’s Christmas warmth in a cup.
  • Iced S’mores Ghirardelli – A refreshing yet indulgent twist that combines bold espresso, Ghirardelli chocolate, and half & half over ice, finished with marshmallow meringue and a graham cracker crunch.
  • S’mores Javakula – A frozen holiday treat that blends Ghirardelli chocolate, marshmallow meringue, dark chocolate sauce, and graham cracker bits, perfect for cooling down while staying in the holiday spirit.

Make Your Holidays Sweeter

The Seattle’s Best Coffee x Ghirardelli S’mores Collection is available for a limited ti

me in all Seattle’s Best Coffee stores nationwide and via GrabFood and FoodPanda.

Indulge in the rich, chocolatey comfort of the holidays—warm, bold, and oh-so-delightful with every sip of Seattle’s Best Coffee’s S’mores Collection.

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