Old Jimny owner new G Vitara owner with questions

Hi,
Just bought a 2008 DDi Grand Vitara as the beloved Jimny was killing me slowly on some of my long journeys. But fear not she is staying in the fold and will be my eldest sons first car when he can afford the insurance.

Vitara question 1. Can I replace the space saver with a real wheel and tire? In short is the door up to it?

Vitara question 2. This car has one key hole (on the outside) in the drivers door but putting in the key and turn does nothing at all. The fob buttons on the key (same as Jimny) work fine but one likes to feel that if the battery died you could still get in the car - please help.

Many thanks

My 09' came with a full sized spare 16" wheel. The door is up to it.

It sounds like there may be an issue with the locking mechanism.