Suzuki Vitara joins our test fleet

We are happy to announce that a 1.6 GL+ AllGrip Suzuki Vitara is joining our longterm fleet of test cars as of today.

The Suzuki Vitara has been an enduring success since the Japanese automaker launched the first Vitara almost 30 years ago.

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At the time, the notion of a compact SUV was as unique as it was novel, and in that sense, the Vitara – and the Grand Vitara that succeeded it – pioneered the small SUV/crossover segment long before it became a recognised trend.

Totally reimagined and completely new from the ground up, the Vitara combines a contemporary, streamlined shape with the raised stance of an authentic compact SUV, but also offers a spacious, car-like interior with comprehensive appointments.

The Suzuki Vitara competes in the compact crossover segment – arguably one of the most closely contested sectors in the SA new vehicle market.

But when equipped with Suzuki’s innovative AllGrip all-wheel drive system, as our long-termer does, it also becomes a contender in the compact SUV sector.

As result, the Vitara is perfectly positioned to attract buyers from both segments, while also offering a fresh design, exceptional economy, a high degree of personalisation and superior active and passive safety standards.

The AllGrip system adds real all-terrain capability, with four user-selectable driving modes.

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The Suzuki Vitara range spans three specification levels – GL, GL+ and GLX – and a choice of two transmissions, as well as either front-wheel or AllGrip all-wheel drive.

All models are equipped with the same, highly efficient four-cylinder petrol engine. The 1.6-litre unit combines willing performance with exceptional efficiency, ensuring swift dynamics and frugal fuel economy.

Maximum power output of 86kW at 6 000rpm is coupled to a torque peak of 151Nm at 4 400rpm.

All models are equipped with a full array of active and passive safety features that includes ABS anti-lock brakes with brake assist, electronic stability control, seven airbags (including a knee airbag), front seat belts with pre-tensioners and load limiters, and IsoFix child seat tethers.

As a result, the Vitara attained a full five-star safety rating under the latest, stringent EuroNCAP crash safety tests.

The interior is said to offer a full house of luxury and convenience, from a MP3/WMA-compatible multi-speaker audio system that includes a CD player and FM /AM tuner, as well USB connectivity.

In addition, integrated Bluetooth connectivity allows handsfree telephony. And Inside our specific GL+ AllGrip, the fabric upholstery gets smart, contrasting stitching, while a sprinkling of chrome and silver accents adds further appeal.

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The steering wheel gains leather trim, electric rear windows, cruise control (with steering wheel-mounted controls), an analogue clock in the centre of the dashboard and automatic climate control air-con.

The front bucket seats are height adjustable for both driver and front passenger, while the rear bench seat is split 60/40 and can be folded flat partially or completely to provide a versatile mix of loading space and rear seating.

The luggage compartment is easily accessible, thanks to a tailgate that opens all the way down to bumper level. At 1 120mm wide and 730mm high, the loading aperture easily copes with bulky objects it is said.

The Vitara offers 375 litres ofluggage space with the rear seatback raised, rising to 710 litres with the seatbacks folded down.

Interior stowage includes front and rear door pockets, a glove compartment, a driver’s side storage binnacle, dual front and rear cup holders, and a centre lower compartment which also hosts the USB and accessory sockets.

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Our Vitara, and the rest of the range of Suzuki vehicles, are backed by an existing, comprehensive three-year /100 000km warranty, as well as a four-year/60 000km service plan, but should you purchase a new Suzuki before the end of December this year, your warranty is extended to fiveyears and 200 000km.

Model Pricing excluding CO2 tax

• Suzuki Vitara GL 5MT R271 900
• Suzuki Vitara GL+ 5MT R307 900
• Suzuki Vitara GL+ 6AT R325 900
• Suzuki Vitara GL+ 5MT AllGrip R331 900
• Suzuki Vitara GLX 6AT R341 900
• Suzuki Vitara GLX 5MT AllGrip R360 900