Outer Limits 4x4 Board

i use to have an 84 sierra which was awesome and went anywhere. BUt now with a baby on the way i need something bigger but not too big like a patrol or landcruiser. Are the grand vitara's good offroad and what is the mechanics like, good or bad. Are than any major problems i need to look for and i have heard they are bad on fuel, why since they are only a 2.5L and if so can this be fixed.

I have also been offered a direct swap for a 1999 Grand Vitara 2.5L V6 5spd manual, full service history with 151000k for my wifes 2000 model toyota corolla levin with only 82000k on it. I think i might go for the trade but if anyone could suggest otherwise and any reason why not too please let me know. I do not know anyone with a grand vitara so i just don't know what they are really like on road and off road.

one tip is listen for a timing chain rattle once first started could mean needs doing soon rear mains leak if used off road with out sealing all holes between motor and gearbox , if you can get one with a cast front diff some came out with al. ones . Fuel ecom. can be fixed a little by adding a snorkle and good air filter . Lift is a little harder to do as no one except calmini offers more then 1 3/4 inch lift . Take your time and look for a good one with low kms and youll be ok