Versatile and practical
Introduction: Suzuki has become a trusted household name over the 17 years since Suzuki began local operations in sunny South Africa. With many different models on offer, the Grand Vitara finds itself suitable to many different types of customers, offering a worthy solution for those looking for the versatility and practicality on offer. The GV does not disappoint with this all-rounder, which is already enjoyed by many South Africans, from the city to the mountains. Because South Africa is essentially ‘a world in one’ country and boasts an amazing climate, there is a resultant huge market for customers seeking all purpose vehicles to suite their outdoor lifestyles. Many South Africans of all ages enjoy what our stunning country has to offer, so there are many that need a vehicle to incorporate an urban style Monday to Friday work week and then something that can adapt to a relaxing or action-packed weekend – these weekends are often involve the great outdoors, adventurous travels, exciting activities and memorable experiences. In my humble opinion, I think that the Grand Vitara achieves this. Engine/ Economy/ Drive/ Comfort: The impressive Grand Vitara compact SUV, comes with a 4-cylinder petrol engine, delivering 77 kW and 138 Nm of power to the front wheels. I drove the 4-speed automatic transmission version, which took a little getting used to, but once I had the revs figured out, whilst on my way to respecting the urban speed limits, I was happy. Suzuki claim an excellent 5.6 Liters per one hundred kms of combined driving, but I got to 6.5, thanks to my necessary performance testing between traffic lights. That economy is hugely rewarding on the pocket and will be a considerable big tick, when looking for many good reasons to buy this vehicle. I found the drive to be fully pleasurable, relaxing, and comfortable and thoroughly enjoyed the easy parking ability thanks to the light and responsive steering.
Features: There are some great features including; Dual slide panoramic sun roof, 360 degree panoramic camera, rear PDC and camera, ESC, 6 airbags with side curtains, ABS, Hill descent, Hill hold assist, automatic climate control, 17-inch machined-polished alloy wheels, Android auto/ Apple car play, BT, HUD, 22.8 cm infotainment digital display, keyless entry, start/ stop, Privacy glass on the rear, Leatherette interior, leather steering wheel with functionality, ambient lighting, Wireless charging tray, cruise control, Front 12V socket and USB in front and additional USB charging ports for rear passengers, rear aircon vents and more. Interior/ Exterior/ Boot: The stylish exterior turns heads at shopping centres and leisure resorts and with the plush and ergonomic interior offering a premium feel and look, I foresee that this car will be appealing to many buyers. The interior is home to artificial leather seats, which are soft and comfortable and lend themselves to the overall feel of this great vehicle. The large and functional infotainment system and instrument cluster displays fit in well to the dashboard and the wireless charging station is conveniently place in front of the transmission. The entire exterior looks fantastic, and the shape even is timeless, offering a lovely mix of elegance coupled with ruggedness. My family of four fitted in with ease, thanks to the ample space and some extra for those compulsory day bags full of devices, hairbrushes, and BT earphones, that my two angel daughters insist on bringing with inside the car! The 328 L boot size is enough for the GV to be worthy of not only school runs but also had enough space for me and my family to go away for a weekend down the gorgeous South coast. The 210 mm ground clearance is super impressive and allows the driver some carte blanch when heading into the wilderness where the roads are a definite challenge to other similar vehicles in this B segment of motor vehicles.
Price/ Warranty/ Service Plan: From R453900, Warranty 5 years/ 200 000 kms, 4 years/ 60 000 km service plan with 15 000 km service intervals or every 12 months.
In Summary: Would I buy this vehicle? If I was looking for a great car, that looks good, is a capable soft off roader, is spacious, offers many features, is comfortable, has a decent fuel economy with the same K15B engine used for its Japanese brother, then the answer is a definite yes!
*This article is written in my opinion only. For detailed information on the specs, please contact Suzuki SA*
