Incorporating numerous visual, technical and specification upgrades, the next generation Vitara, which has enjoyed strong UK sales success since its launch in 2015 and is currently the most popular model in Suzuki’s range, is sure to continue with its upwards trajectory. Potential customers will be drawn certainly to its softer-touch interior, the former, all-grey but hard plastic trim, being replaced by more compliant and up-market surfaces.
As if that is insufficient, Vitara will now be powered by both 1.0-litre, three-cylinder and 1.4-litre, four-cylinder Boosterjet turbo-charged petrol engines. They were introduced in the S-Cross model range late last year and replace the former 1.6-litre petrol engine. Highly-acclaimed, the Boosterjet engines provide a useful blend of more power and torque, vastly improved efficiency and lower emissions too. SZ4 and SZ-T trim levels are equipped with the 1.0-litre 109bhp unit and ALLGRIP four-wheel-drive is available as an option on the SZ-T with manual transmission.
Move up to SZ5 grade and it is equipped with the 1.4-litre Boosterjet engine that offers a punchy 137bhp, allied to 162lbs ft of torque, which is available from just 1,500rpm through to 4,000rpm. WLTP fuel consumption and CO2 emissions figures for both engines will be available closer to the launch date. While there will be some minor numerical changes, as a result of the new fuel economy test regime, rest assured that performance levels will remain strong.
In tests I have written that the Suzuki Vitara 1.4S is not only a great rallycar-for-the-road but a subsequent test session in a Welsh forest proved to me that it was immensely competent as an off-roader too! I cannot recommend it highly enough. Fortunately, the latest Vitara will also offer minor design upgrades, two new colours and the availability of the latest driver aids and advanced safety equipment.
New design alloy wheels help to differentiate between previous and new models, while a redesigned front grille and lower bumper is also introduced. The rear of the car features restyled LED combination lamps. The revised model’s instrument cluster has a new design featuring a colour central information display. The latest Vitara will be the most technically-advanced Suzuki to date, incorporating dual-sensor brake support, lane departure warning and prevention, traffic sign recognition, blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.
On the other hand, the charming Jimny, which has been a vital element of Suzuki’s UK presence since 1970, is undergoing the biggest transformation of its existence, in readiness for launch early next year. Always a 4x4, always tough and uncompromising, it remains the smallest, yet most accessible four-wheel-drive car sold in the UK. Its 1.3-litre petrol engine is replaced by an all-new 1.5-litre alternative, with a choice of 5-speed manual, or 4-speed automatic gearboxes.
In looks alone, it is unmistakable as a go-anywhere vehicle. It is an immensely humble small car and rides on a separate ladder chassis, sprung by coils and with a low-range transfer gearbox. It is robust, available in a choice of eight cheerful and purposeful colours, while remaining easy to drive, even if the driver is wearing thick gloves and boots. It features a much bigger luggage area than the outgoing model and really looks the part.
