Insurance groups start at group 12 and rise to 14, which are rather high compared to similarly-sized rivals. Depreciation won’t be as steep as the old car and fuel economy is acceptable. Suzuki Grand Vitara running cost will be helped by the affordServicing at Suzuki dealers is good value and parts are reasonably priced too.

Suzuki Grand Vitara emissions aren’t particularly wonderful. It isn’t particularly environmentally friendly in terms of carbon dioxide emissions, but there is a diesel in the line-up, and the 2.4-litre petrol engine (launched late in 2008) offers similar performance to V6 rivals, but with much lower emissions.

Like many Japanese manufacturers, Suzuki has a reputation for mechanical durability. Some past products have suffered from a slightly flimsy interior, but this is not the case on this car. Like the Swift, the Suzuki Grand Vitara reliability is strong because it has been designed and engineered for European buyers from the outset. That means a quality interior with a high-grade finish.

Time will tell if it proves to be reliable, but there is currently no cause for concern.