Suzuki Vitara Full Hybrid
By Ian Strachan.
The Suzuki Vitara has been around for more than 30 years and has sales worldwide of well over three million. It has always been one of my favourite 4x4s, with good looks and a no-nonsense package. The latest version is even better.
This award-winning Suzuki has good looks, with a good range of engines giving performance and economy. And now it is available as a full hybrid, with its 1.5 litre petrol engine couple to a 24kw electric motor which helps the petrol engine and allows for short distances under electric power.
I tested the 1.5 petrol and electric powered full hybrid all-grip in version in SZ5 trim level, which has good economy and range, combined with sprightly performance, high specification and good economy, with the optio of switching between eco and standard drive modes.
Unlike some of its competitors, the Vitara is a true off-roader – much more than a grass and gravel vehicle. You can confidently take this vehicle over fields and muddy tracks and it won’t put a wheel wrong.
Purposeful alloy wheels, high ground clearance, large clamshell bonnet and wheel arch extensions make the Vitara look purposeful and capable.
The 1.5 litre petrol unit pumps out 115 horsepower which, linked to a six-speed automatic gearbox, never feels overworked. If you want to use manual mode there are steering-wheel mounted paddles.
The 1.5 petrol automatic Vitara in four wheel drive mode will return 48.4 mpg in mixed driving – not bad for a fairly large vehicle. The manual version will give you slightly better economy, as will the 2wd version.
The Vitara has always had a crisp, well laid out and comfortable interior and the latest version is no exception. The faux-suede seats are large and supportive with a good range of adjustment. Instruments are clear and well laid out. The whole of the interior feels spacious, pleasant and light, even with black trim and upholstery, thanks to a huge panoramic sliding sunroof.
The Suzuki’s all wheel drive makes for a stable and safe ride. The Vitara feels glued to the road, but still provides light handling and driver involvement.
Equipment levels are high, and the price of the 1.5 SZ5 full hybrid automatic version – at £29,299 on the road – is competitive.
Standard equipment is impressive and includes alloy wheels, hill hold and hill descent control, six-speaker DAB digital radio with USB socket and Bluetooth connectivity, satellite navigation with a 4.2 inch colour touchscreen, electric, heated door mirrors, 60-40 split rear seat, double height luggage area giving 289 litres of luggage space, automatic air conditioning, leather trimmed steering wheel with steering wheel mounted controls and gear-shift paddles, front fog lamps, keyless ignition with automatic stop/start, lane assist, front and rear parking sensors with rear camera and all round electric windows.
It’s difficult to fault this car. It’s a very good all round effort which will keep the Vitara competitive for a while to come..
