DRIVEN: All-new Suzuki Dzire is very ‘Dzire-able’

The Suzuki Dzire is a very close sibling of the Swift model, which is currently enjoying good sales in South Africa.

Built on the same lightweight platform that underpins the Suzuki Baleno and Ignis models, the Dzire is nearly 75kg lighter than its predecessor with the drop in weight translating to better performance and handling, while fuel efficiency also sees a healthy improvement.

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Although the front looks similar to the Swift, it is a stand-alone model.

On the outside, the Dzire features a trapezoidal grille that appears to be a bit wider than its predecessor. The sweptback headlamps are more contoured and incorporate projector lens and LED DRLs.

The A-pillar is curved lower for a more sedan-like element and the C-pillar merges more gracefully in the boot. The interior now feels upmarket, with a new flat-bottom steering wheel the most notable change.

The centre console boasts a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

You also get MirrorLink compatibility, while a neat touch is the inclusion of rear air-conditioning vents.

The vehicle’s increased dimensions result in improved space between the front and rear seats by a massive 55mm and increases shoulder width for rear passengers by 15mm.

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You get a generous boot, measured at 378 litres – 78l larger than the previous model. The new Dzire also gets ABS, Isofix and dual front airbags as standard.

I had the 1.2 GL version on test, using the same K12M four-cylinder engine that powers the Swift GL.

Power is rated at 61kW at 6 000rpm with 113Nm of torque at 4 200rpm, accessed via a smooth five-speed manual gearbox.

In terms of driving, the engine response is enough to get you going.

The five-speed manual gearbox feels solid and the short shifts and light clutch makes driving it brilliant.

Although the engine feels a bit underpowered, it can keep you entertained if you rev it hard, even though that will have a direct effect on fuel economy.

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Spending a week with the car, I managed to average a fuel consumption figure of 6.4l/100km from its 37l tank without driving economically.

All models are sold with Suzuki’s acclaimed five-year/200 000km mechanical warranty and a two-year/30 000km service plan.

What we like 

• Improved fuel economy.
• Interior feels upmarket.
• More spacious than before.

What we do not like

• Engine seems slightly underpowered.

Verdict 

An improvement on the Swift, the Dzire should be even more popular.