The Suzuki Grand Vitara has been available for an extended while. Nonetheless, I just had the opportunity to test a rented model in South Africa.
I rented the GLX variant equipped with a five-speed manual gearbox. The Suzuki Grand Vitara (GV) is among the most cherished heritage cars of the Japanese brand. The latest GV is manufactured in India and signifies a whole new era for the moniker.
However, many Suzuki enthusiasts, particularly the older demographic, may not exhibit enthusiasm — maybe a moniker of such prominence should not be conferred upon a vehicle that is only a crossover (or “softroader”, as it is often referred to)?
The GV is among the most loved small crossovers. The primary benefits are dependability, controllability and off-road capability. The Japanese have been churning out Suzuki since 1997.
Contemporary design
The latest GV showcases a contemporary rendition of its predecessor’s clamshell hood. It has a more sculpted design, characterised by a substantial, commanding wheel arch that accommodates its prominent alloy wheels. Functional roof rails complete this contoured design.
The front has a multi-tiered grille with a prominent central part adorned with metallic accents, a slender upper segment that elegantly encases the S-badge, and an inverted portion that seamlessly transitions into the lower strike plate. Three-point LED daytime running lights flank the sides and their own black polycarbonate enclosures house the primary headlights.
A slender and formidable LED light bar spans the whole of the car’s back, equipped with three-dimensional LED lighting.
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A deeply sculpted area at the borders of the lower bumper integrates the reverse and turn signals.
Roof rails and 17-inch alloy wheels are standard on all variants. The GL models feature painted alloy wheels, while the GLX versions feature machine-polished rims with identical dimensions.
Interior and comfort
Upon entering the GV, one will see that it offers enough space relative to its measurements of 4 345mm in length and 1 795mm in width. The trunk has 310 litres of cargo capacity, which may be increased to 1 147 litres when the rear seats are reclined.
Despite its small SUV classification, the legroom, headroom and shoulder space are sufficient for both front and back passengers.
The GLX trim is equipped with advanced technology and comfort amenities. The interior has fake leather upholstery with vivid contrast stitching and ambient lighting that outlines the dashboard, door panels and plush seats.
The technology includes a prominently featured 9.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The system is compatible with wireless Apple CarPlay and wired (USB-A) Android Auto. It furthermore serves as a video display for the lateral, back and frontal cameras.
Situated underneath the infotainment display are the settings for the automated climate control system and the GLX trim has a wireless charging pad. Rear occupants also have access to two USB-A connectors for gadget charging. The steering wheel, covered in faux leather, has controls for managing phone, entertainment and cruise control functions.
Safety
Suzuki also prioritised occupants safety. The GV has Suzuki’s Total Effective Control Technology (TECT). This indicates that the forces and stresses from a collision are transmitted throughout the cabin and mitigated in regions far from the passengers. The primary objective is to minimise cabin deformation and ensure the safety of all passengers.
Suzuki has equipped the vehicle with six airbags, including front and side units for front passengers, as well as two curtain airbags that extend around the cabin to protect both front and rear occupants.
It equipped the vehicle with electronic stability control, ABS brakes with emergency brake assist, hill hold assist and rear parking sensors as standard features to aid the driver in accident prevention.
Child safety is ensured with ISOFIX, including both top and bottom tethers on the outside rear seats.
Performance
How is the performance? Under the hood, there is a 1,5-litre, naturally aspirated, four-cylinder petrol engine. The engine generates 77kW and 138Nm of torque, sent to the front wheels via a five-speed manual gearbox in our test unit. This is sufficient for steeper gradients or a fully-loaded passenger compartment and trunk. However, it will not establish performance records at the local track. Suzuki prioritised the development of this motor for efficiency.
Fuel consumption
Suzuki asserts an average fuel consumption of 6,0 litres/100km, whereas we recorded around 6,1L/100km under typical driving circumstances and a standard driving style.
Nevertheless, during our efforts to attain minimal consumption, we recorded figures as low as 5,0L/100km, which is remarkably low given the engine’s propensity to rev.
The Suzuki GV GLX instrument cluster features a TFT screen displaying an average fuel consumption of 6,1L/100km.
The drive
The GV has a little firmer suspension configuration compared to its counterpart, the XL6, however, it remains comfortable. The pliable seats make the GV comfortable on uneven terrain and rugged highways.
The GV, characterised by its elevated ground clearance, is well suited for unpaved roads and moderate adventure driving, hence, the firmer suspension is justifiable.
It has effective insulation and its superior sound system effectively masks the little road noise that penetrates the interior. It is not the fastest vehicle; yet, its acceleration and torque are sufficient for everyday highway and suburban driving.
It has road manners.
My decision
The Suzuki GV in GLX specification is a competent crossover, offering enough room, a comfortable driving experience, a robust engine and an abundance of technology.
Given its affordability and suitability for most families, we unequivocally endorse it as a viable choice for single persons or small families seeking an economical and competent vehicle for urban use and occasional excursions. — andrew@muzamhindo.com
