A Legacy of 40 Years in the Australian Market
The Suzuki Vitara has been a staple in the Australian new-car market for nearly four decades. Over its four generations, it has evolved in size and sophistication, but so has the competition it faces. In today’s small SUV segment, models like the Chery Tiggo 4, GWM Haval Jolion, Hyundai Kona, MG ZS, and Toyota Corolla Cross have significantly outperformed the Vitara, with sales ratios reaching up to 60 to one in some cases.
To stay relevant, Suzuki has introduced the Turbo Hybrid variant, an important addition to its lineup. This model promises enhanced fuel efficiency, reduced emissions, and improved on-road performance. We spent a week with the top-spec ‘AllGrip’ all-wheel-drive version to see if it can compete with the big names in this fiercely contested segment.
A Familiar Face in a Changing Landscape
If you were to ask someone to describe a ‘typical’ small SUV, the Suzuki Vitara would likely come to mind nine out of ten times. Launched in Australia in 2015, the current Vitara received a ‘Series III’ update earlier this year, which included the hybrid variant. Its clean, neatly-wrapped exterior design still holds up well, though it lacks the ruggedness of rivals like the Subaru Crosstrek or Toyota Corolla Cross.
Inside, the Vitara features a slightly larger 9.0-inch multimedia touchscreen, but elements such as analogue instruments, a single USB-A socket, and a manual handbrake give it an outdated feel. The price is another major consideration. The flagship Vitara Turbo Hybrid AllGrip comes with a drive-away price of $45,990, which is enough to purchase several other models in the segment, including the Hyundai Kona Premium 1.6T N-Line AWD, Kia Seltos GT-Line AWD, Mazda CX-30 G25 Astina AWD, or Toyota Corolla Cross Atmos Hybrid.
Standard Features and Interior Quality
Standard features include 17-inch alloy wheels, auto LED headlights, a leather-trimmed steering wheel, a reversing camera, panoramic sunroof, adaptive cruise control, and climate control. However, these features are expected at this price point. The air-con is single-zone, the audio system has only six speakers, and the overall look and feel of the car aren’t spectacular.
The doors feel insubstantial, quivering slightly when opened and closed. While soft-touch materials on the dash are fine, hard plastics on the doors don’t match the price tag. But once underway, the Vitara impresses.
Performance and Handling
The 1.4-litre turbo-petrol four-cylinder engine delivers enough power to get the 1275kg five-seater off the mark cleanly and keep it composed in traffic or on the highway. Power delivery is linear, and the mild-hybrid setup includes a 48-volt integrated starter generator that helps reduce engine load and provides an extra 50Nm of pulling power when needed. Overall outputs are 81kW and 235Nm.
The strut front and torsion-beam rear suspension do a great job of keeping the compact SUV composed over bumpy urban surfaces. Electrically assisted steering is accurate, and road feel is excellent. When pushing into the upper rev range, engine and exhaust noises become more noticeable in the cabin, but overall, the Vitara offers a surprisingly comfortable ride.
Practicality and Space
At just under 4.2 metres long, the Vitara is a ‘small’ small SUV. The front part of the cabin is reasonably roomy with plenty of storage options, but the back seat is only average in the context of the category. Legroom is reasonable, and headroom is generous, but it’s not ideal for three full-size adults. There are no adjustable vents, power outlets, or a fold-down armrest for back-seaters, and getting in and out is an effort.
The boot volume is a reasonable 362 litres, expanding to 642 litres with the 60/40 split-folding backrest. There are thoughtful bins, anchors, and hooks, along with a 12-volt outlet and an adjustable floor for a flat load space, plus a space-saver spare underneath.
Fuel Efficiency and Safety
In terms of fuel efficiency, the Vitara Turbo Hybrid has an official combined cycle figure of 5.9L/100km. During our week of mainly urban driving, we achieved exactly that. However, it requires 95 RON premium fuel, which may be a concern for some buyers.
The Vitara is currently unrated by ANCAP but includes a decent suite of ADAS features, including Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), adaptive cruise, lane departure warning, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and front and rear parking sensors. These features function well in operation.
Service and Ownership Costs
Service is recommended every 12 months or 10,000km, which is relatively frequent in terms of distance. However, the average cost of $397 per workshop visit for the first five years is far from outrageous.
Verdict
The Suzuki Vitara Turbo Hybrid AllGrip scores highly for economy but is an average performer in terms of practicality, safety, and ownership. The hybrid drive is surprisingly sharp, but the dated interior, brittle overall feel, and steep price push it back in the highly competitive small SUV segment.
