Motoring
‘Beefed up’ SUV ticks a lot of boxes Breda Corrigan tests the new ‘revitalised’ Suzuki Vitara
Many modern SUV buyers want the rugged looks and raised driving position of a 4x4, combined with the running costs of a conventional hatchback. The new Suzuki Vitara SUV is certainly a car that fulfils that criteria very well, and comes to the market with a starting price of just €20.995 (ex-delivery). Ever since its launch in 1988, the various generations of the Suzuki Vitara have earned high acclaim for their stylish designs, compact and easy to manage dimensions, good on-road performance and genuine off-road ability. Over the years, the Vitara has evolved through changes in body size, engine technology, safety systems and chassis development.
are two petrol (Boosterjet) engine options – a 1.0-litre, and a 1.4-litre, with annual road tax costing €270, and €280 respectively. Thanks to Suzuki’s new Boosterjet technology, both engines offer low emissions and greatly enhanced fuel economy. The 1.0-litre petrol engine comes with 110bhp and 160Nm of torque, making this car so much fun to drive. This eager engine goes hand-in-hand with a chassis that is equally enjoyable. Body control is excellent and engine responses are fluid and natural, giving the new Vitara a sporty and dynamic character. The 1.4-litre engine comes with 139bhp and 220Nm of torque – figures which represent a 17% increase over the 1.6-litre engine it replaced back in 2015.
Petrol-only engines Stylish good looks The new Suzuki Vitara is available in petrol engine guise only, but transmission choices consist of a five-speed manual, six-speed manual and a six-speed automatic – depending on the model chosen. There 68 Senior Times l January - February 2020 l www.seniortimes.ie
Available in up to 11 different colours (single-tone and two-tone paint) the new Vitara stands 1.61M tall, 4.175M long and 1.775M wide, and will
