The Suzuki Grand Vitara is a compact sport-utility vehicle that has rugged tendencies. That rugged versatility was somewhat surprising to Wheels editor Jimmy Dinsmore and freelance automotive writer David Mikesell during their test drive of the 2012 Suzuki Grand Vitara.

As it turns out, there were more surprises to be found.

DAVE: Here is something you might not expect to find as standard on a compact sport-utility vehicle — a navigation system. But, in the sake of full disclosure, the navigation system is not the grand, in-dash version with an expansive touch screen. Instead, it’s a portable Garmin that comes in a pop-up mount on the top of the dash. Considering the ease of use and the information features included — I now know every barbecue joint within 20 miles of my house — I’d say this navigator is headed in the right direction. How ’bout you, Jimmy? Find any good restaurants — or other neat features in the Grand Vitara?

JIMMY: I actually didn’t employ the navigation system as, unlike you, I was a little put off at its minimalistic appearance. I expected a little more from a “standard” navigation system in an SUV. But, I did find the interior to be comfortable and attractive. I especially liked the two-tone seats, which are water resistant, giving the Grand Vitara an off-roading vibe. It straddled the line between comfort and ruggedness. Don’t you agree, Dave?

DAVE: The Grand Vitara has a classic compact SUV exterior, with the term classic meaning that there is not much to make a visual splash other than the flared fenders. Where Suzuki did spice up the model this year, though, was with the addition of an Ultimate Adventure Edition to the lineup. Slotted above the Base and Premium trims but below the Limited, the Ultimate Adventure retails for $23,949 for the all-wheel drive version we tested (rear-wheel drive is $22,299) and comes with water-resistant two-tone heated vinyl seats Jimmy mentioned, 18-inch alloy wheels, fog lamps, heated power mirrors with integrated turn signals and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.

JIMMY: The Grand Vitara has a comparable engine to many other compact SUVs on the market. The 2.4-liter engine generates 166 horsepower and 162 lb.-ft. of torque. It has full-time all-wheel drive and 4-wheel independent suspension. This makes for a comfortable ride that remains under control.

During a gully-washing spring storm, the Grand Vitara threw pooling water aside, never once hydroplaning, and performed like a champ. The major area of improvement for the Grand Vitara is in the transmission.

Offering a 4-speed transmission in today’s market puts Suzuki at least two gears behind the times (the base model is standard with a five-speed manual). Despite this, the transmission does give everything it has and the shifting is reasonably good.

DAVE: Maneuverability is a plus in the Grand Vitara, which is great for urban confines since there is also a good view of the road. Taking to the country or over harsh pavement accentuates the firm ride but nothing too egregious.

JIMMY: The Grand Vitara has a side-hinged rear gate. I liked this feature, but it can be cumbersome in tight parking lots and city parking. There is 69 cubic feet of interior cargo space with the 60/40-split rear seats folded down. However, to fold them flat is a multi-step process that is a little complicated and could stand to be simplified.

DAVE: Like other compact SUVs, the versatility and rugged nature of the Suzuki Grand Vitara is appreciated. Not to speak for Jimmy here, but this one packs a lot onto a window sticker.

JIMMY: I definitely appreciate all of the included features on the sticker. However, the fuel economy is below standard, thanks in part to the aforementioned 4-speed transmission and the standard all-wheel drive. I averaged a mere 19 MPG during my week in the Grand Vitara. Those who’ve experienced a Grand Vitara in the past will appreciate the advancements the brand has made. There are still improvements needed, but for now the Suzuki Grand Vitara offers useful versatility.