SUZUKI VITARA
SUZUKI VITARA FROM $21,990
Suzuki’s Vitara is a simple, affordable SUV that works nicely as transport for a young family. Think of it as a spacious, practical alternative to a small hatch, such as a Toyota Corolla, and you get the idea.
Speaking of which, prices start at just $21,990 for the Vitara RT-S, with an 86kW 1.6-litre petrol four, six-speed manual and front-wheel drive. A sixspeed automatic (tested here) adds $2000. At this price you get plenty of standard equipment, including navigation, automatic air, 17-inch alloy wheels, Bluetooth and seven airbags.
Vitara RT-X, with the same engine, the automatic and allwheel drive in high range only, is $31,990. It adds a sunroof, parking sensors, leather-suede upholstery and extra bling.
The 1.6 produces pretty humble power and torque numbers, and overall performance is leisurely, but the Vitara is as light as a small hatch (1075kg) and the six-speed automatic suits the engine’s long stroke characteristics, so in the daily driving context the Suzuki’s performance is adequate.
Fuel efficiency is outstanding, and the 1.6 runs on regular unleaded. The 1.6 is also acceptably smooth and quiet.
Vitara S is also available with a 103kW 1.4-litre turbopetrol engine in S-Turbo specification, with the six-speed auto as standard, priced at $28,990 for the front-wheel drive model and $32,990 for all-wheel drive.
The Vitara’s suspension is fairly soft, so ride comfort is excellent on most surfaces. Handling is benign and secure, with no nasty surprises to speak of. In tight corners the Suzuki can feel a bit top-heavy — because it is — but quality Continental tyres provide good grip.
The steering is perhaps a touch too direct for a tall, shortwheelbase wagon, and is also imprecise in the straight ahead position at freeway speeds. The brakes are powerful, if rather on or off in light applications.
