Suzuki introduced the third generation of the Escudo/Vitara in 2005 and offered it with either three or five doors, depending on the market.

Suzuki introduced the Vitara lineup in 1988 as a 1989 model for those looking for a light SUV but needed more room and comfort than the rugged Samurai.

Known as a big maker of small cars and motorcycles, Suzuki tried to build a small SUV and launched it in 1989: the Vitara. It was built in three variants: three-door, five-door and convertible. The same car was known in the U.S. as the Geo Sidekick or GMC Sidekick. The small engine and light body-on-frame vehicle had a good fuel consumption and decent performance on road.