The Vitara arguably one of the first vehicles that introduced us to the compact SUV segment in the late Eighties. Generation four of the Vitara maintains and improves on the brand’s and model’s reputation for excellent reliability, while generously adding improved design and aesthetic appeal that will satisfy old Vitara clients while attracting newcomers to the model. I had many admiring looks while driving the Vitara 1.6GL+ and approaching the car from meetings was a pleasure as I got compliments on styling and queries on how it drives. It surely doesn’t disappoint on any level!
The Looks
The Vitara is quite an attractive newcomer and drew attention everywhere I went. The two-tone colour scheme is new in this compact segment and spices things up further. Being arty, I would have loved further funkiness on the white roof with some bold graffiti to make the car stand out even more. I absolutely loved the mags on 1.6 GL+!
The cabin
The interior is disappointingly conservatively styled as is customary for all models in the Suzuki brand. The cabin of our test car was kitted out in grey plastic with a solid, premium feel but I think more cold have been done as this is a range topper in the Suzuki stable. Although not shabby, it is a bit of a let down from an exquisite exterior. You can, however, add some colour by choosing a coloured dashboard panel or contrasting surrounds for the analogue clock and air vents if the plain look bothers you a tad much!
The leather-trimmed multifunction steering wheel is height and reach adjustable and has the standard Suzuki toggles for the audio system, cruise control and Bluetooth hands-free telephone function. Again, as a range topper, the audio system’s display is dated compared to touchscreens of competitors, but maintains ease of use. You will however never run out of spaces to stash your oddments and I counted more than 6 cupholders/bottleholders, 2 in the centre console around the gear lever, 2 pull down arm rest in the back seat and 4 on front and rear doors! How thirsty can a family be to need so many cupholders? The Vitara 1.6 GL+ has automatic climate control air-conditioning as standard which come in handy in long commutes.
One of the Vitara’s strengths is space and there’s loads of it. There is enough headroom in the rear to accommodate even taller passengers, and ample legroom due to a long wheelbase with enough space left over for luggage (375-litres and an extra false floor that deepens the boot even further for larger items failing which you can fold the rear (60/40 split) seatback flat, which will free up 710 litres of utility space). If you can’t pack a suitcase to save your life, there are roof racks to install a luggage pod on the roof and you can always tow a trailer. ISOfix child seat anchorage points come standard for young families with tots to transport.
The Drive
All Vitara derivatives are powered by a naturally aspirated 4-cylinder 1.6-litre petrol engine that develops 86 kW and 151 Nm of torque. Power is sent to the front wheels via a 5-speed manual transmission, which is a pleasure to operate. Its action is so light that gear shifts are smooth and effortless. Although not a dire need, the Vitara can do with a 6th gear for those long roads.
The performance of this Vitara will not shatter any records, does not accelerate fast enough and lacks grunt for city driving. I had to change down in order to overtake on dual carriageways and that required planning. Once you have accepted that this is not speedster, the leisurely power delivery and the refined engine is quite enjoyable with a superb ride quality and excellent road handling at a frugal 6.4 l/100km against a Suzuki claimed 5.8 l/100 km for this derivative.
Verdict
The Vitara is a solidly-built car that offers good value for money and excellent styling. It is not fast but what it lacks in speed is generously compensated in refined ride quality, excellent ground clearance, class leading interior space and solid build and drinks moderately to boot! Priced from R282 900 with 3-year / 100 000 km warranty and a 4-year / 60 000 km service plan at service intervals of 15 000 km, I would buy it for the looks alone. Go figure!
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