Name: Suzuki Vitara Review
Item: Suzuki Vitara
Author: Gumtree.com

If you want a family SUV that doesn’t compromise on quality but don’t need acres of space, the Suzuki Vitara is one of the cheapest options available – and it also offers a lot of quality. It’s a compact crossover that’s impressively well-crafted for its price point, and its subtle design is surprisingly stylish. Its small range of refined, efficient engines provide plenty of power and speed to match its excellent handling, making this a car that’s just as fun as it is practical.

Check out available specifications and learn more on the Suzuki Vitara model page.

What we think about the Suzuki Vitara

This compact crossover SUV is reasonably priced and subtly stylish, making it an attractive option.

Pros

Very affordable

Safe

Decent boot space

Good fuel economy

Engines are surprisingly powerful and refined

Low-key style

Cons

–

Interior is quite cheap and basic

–

Lacking in tech features

The entry-level trim on the Suzuki Vitara, the SZ4, has a 1.4-litre mild hybrid engine which can provide up to 48.7 mpg, according to official figures. There’s also the SZ-T trim, and the top-end SZ5. Before 2018, older models of the Vitara had a 1.0-litre petrol engine on the basic trim, and there was also a 1.6-litre diesel unit available. The Vitara is a four-door, five-seater.

Driving performance of the Suzuki Vitara

Our Driving Rating8 / 10

The Suzuki Vitara’s ride isn’t quite as refined and comfortable as some other crossover SUVs, but it compensates by offering a lot of enjoyment, particularly when navigating urban streets. Body roll is minimal, and its grip on the road is excellent. The Vitara’s steering is also very light and agile, which makes cornering a breeze. The noticeably light weight of the car’s body contributes to its easy, nimble feeling. The suspension is a little stiff, however, and you’re likely to sometimes feel those bumps and wobbles.

Safety and reliability of the Suzuki Vitara

Our Safety Rating8 / 10

After putting it through extensive crash tests back in 2015, Euro NCAP gave its maximum five-star rating to the Suzuki Vitara. The car scored 89% for how well it protected adult occupants, and 85% for its protection of children on board. Protection of pedestrians was scored at 76%, and its impressive line-up of safety tech scored 75%. As standard with the Vitara, you’ll get a reversing camera, adaptive cruise control, ABS and brake assist, as well as a useful Hill Descent Control feature for improved off-roading.

Under the bonnet of the Suzuki Vitara

Our Engine Rating7 / 10

On Suzuki Vitaras before 2018, the entry-level 1.0-litre petrol engine is a turbocharged, three-cylinder unit, and it cruises along relatively smoothly with a pleasingly quiet tone. If you want a bit more oomph, you can opt for the 1.4-litre version, which provides 142 bhp and will hit 62 mph from standing in a little over nine seconds. Newer models all have different variations on a 1.4-litre mild hybrid, which delivers 129 bhp. This unit can do 0-62 in around 9.5 seconds, and it will max out at 114 mph.

What you'll find in the Suzuki Vitara

Our Design Rating7 / 10

The design of the Vitara doesn’t make it the most fashionable car on the market, but it’s definitely got a subtle sophistication and a few neat touches that make it easier on the eye than many crossover SUVs. The compact dimensions are a real plus point, and its general body shape and aesthetic suggest a balance between off-road ruggedness and city chic. You might also appreciate the boldness of the Suzuki branding on the high front grille, which brings a rare hint of character to what can be quite a generic class of cars.

Comfort and interiors in the Suzuki Vitara

Our Comfort Rating6 / 10

Inside the Suzuki Vitara’s cabin you’ll find a lot of cheap, flimsy-looking plastics which bring the overall vibe of the car down quite a bit, and the simplistic design isn’t particularly inspiring. However, there’s plenty of space for five passengers to fit inside, with good headroom and legroom. The Vitara’s cargo space is around 375 litres, which should be fine for most families, but is relatively small compared to some rivals. Something like the Citroen C3 or the Seat Arona would be a better choice if you’re looking for slightly higher interior quality.

What features you'll find in the Suzuki Vitara

Our Features Rating5 / 10

The Vitara’s infotainment system is accessed via a touchscreen that’s surprisingly basic and outdated, and the entry-level SZ4 trim even has a CD player to contribute further to the retro feel. This tech is slightly upgraded on higher trims, but it’s still lacking in sophistication compared to rivals. It does come with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, though, so you can improve the infotainment experience by using your phone. Bluetooth and a DAB radio come as standard. In terms of aesthetic tweaks, you can upgrade to get 17-inch alloys, as well as a panoramic sunroof.

What fuel efficiency to expect from the Suzuki Vitara

Our Fuel Consumption Rating7 / 10

According to official figures, the Vitara’s 1.4-litre mild hybrid engine can deliver around 49 miles to the gallon, although real-world performance might not match up to this. Still, this is definitely a promising engine in terms of fuel efficiency – it’s just a shame that there’s no diesel option to offer even better figures. The car’s CO2 emissions are reported to be around 140g/km on average. This isn’t terrible, but it’s definitely higher than some comparable crossover SUVs, particularly ones that can run on electric power.

Running costs of the Suzuki Vitara

Our Cost Rating8 / 10

Buying the Suzuki Vitara is an affordable option in the first place, and it’s even cheaper when you consider that you’ll also be able to make some decent savings in the long term. Even the top trims will still fall under lower insurance groups, keeping your premiums to a minimum, and the car’s fuel efficiency is quite impressive. The manufacturer’s three-year/60,000 miles warranty is about average for the UK, although Suzuki parts should be relatively cheap in the event that you need to pay for repairs.

Our verdict of the Suzuki Vitara

4 / 5 Gumtree rating

One of the most affordable crossover SUVs, this could be a fun and practical car for you and your family if you don't mind the basic interior.

Suzuki Vitara Review