Drive The Fun  

By Simphiwe Malenga

The Team at The Driversza  recently spent some time with the updated Suzuki Vitara.The Suzuki Vitara  is a series of SUV produced by Suzuki since 1988.The compact family car is powered by 1.4-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine which  produces outputs of  103 kW and 220 Nm,the outputs are then same  as  Swift Sport ,they  shares the  engine . In the Vitara application, there’s 10 Nm less, but we adore the K14C Boosterjet motor all the same. Compared with the naturally-aspirated 1.6-litre motor, which produces 86 kW and 151 Nm, the turbocharged mill is much more spirited. 

 

Suzuki has made it a habit of packing its vehicles with loads of standard goodies. The Vitara is another example of this.

 

Equipped with LED daytime running lights, automatic LED headlamps, a set of silver roof rails and chrome detailing in the front grille and under the fog lamps coupled with 17-inch alloy wheels, lends the exterior a stylish appearance. 

 

The list of luxuries continues in the technology department with the 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system incorporating smartphone connectivity, reverse camera, Bluetooth connectivity, built-in Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and MirrorLink systems.

 

In terms of other noteworthy standard interior features, a reverse-view camera and front/rear parking sensors, along with a panoramic sunroof, climate control (automatic aircon), as well as automatic wipers. In terms of safety features, the 1.4T GLX auto is comprehensively specified, with 7 airbags, ABS with brake assist and EBD, ESP (electronic stability control) and rear ISOfix child seat anchorage points.

 

Performance and ride

 

The ever-responsive turbo petrol motor is a peach and smartly calibrated with the (6-speed) automatic transmission. Shift paddles are located on the steering wheel (for those who like to actuate up- and downshifts for themselves), but they lack some tactile quality, even if they function well. 

 

Despite the ‘box being of the conventional torque-converter type – not a quick-shifting dual-clutch unit, it shifts reasonably quickly. The biggest benefit of the 1.4T’s additional zip and responsiveness is impressive overtaking ability; in-gear performance is excellent for this segment. Despite a slight performance bent, the fuel economy was commendable, with our trip computer displayed a commendable 7 L/100 km (claim 5.9 L/100 km).

 

 

Quick Fact About Suzuki Vitara

 

  •  ABS with BAS and EBD 
  • Keyless entry with push start 
  • ESP
  • 17″ alloy wheels LED daytime running lights 
  • Seven airbags 
  • Electric windows front and rear 
  • Automatic LED headlamps and windscreen wipers 
  • Electrically adjustable and foldable mirrors 
  • Park distance control front and rear 
  • 4.2” Multi-information colour display 
  • SLDA smartphone linkage display audio with Apple Carplay and Android Auto + Bluetooth®* + rearview camera 
  • Automatic climate control 
  • Suede upholstery with leather inserts 
  • Steering mounted audio controls 
  • Cruise control with speed limiter 
  • Five-star EuroNCAP safety rating 

 

The Suzuki Vitara range starts at R310 900, with this flagship 1.4T GLX auto derivative costing R426 900. The vehicle is sold with a 5-year/200 000 km warranty and a 4-year/60 000 km service plan.

 

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