The Vitara is no longer the freshest model in the Suzuki portfolio. Nevertheless, the small SUV has now received a modern full hybrid drive that also runs purely electrically and saves fuel.
The now somewhat graying Vitara will probably have to hold out until Suzuki’s electric offensive, which will start in 2024. In order for this to succeed, the mini-SUV even learned how to drive in its old age. As a new hybrid, it moves electrically at a modest level, but it gets the thirst for fuel under control.
The first impression
Despite the hybrid lettering and modern LED lights, the now eight-year-old Vitara no longer looks particularly fresh. At 4.17 meters, the five-door is pleasingly compact with a sufficiently spacious interior. The workplace may seem antiquated in some places, but on the other hand, you quickly find your way around. The quality is right. The navigation infotainment system in the classic 7-inch format even masters Apple Carplay and Android Auto.
In the street
In the Vitara Hybrid, a 1.5-liter petrol engine with 75 kW/102 hp is responsible for the main propulsion work, which is somewhat hesitantly assisted by a 24 kW/33 hp electric motor. The double heart is not temperamental. When braking, the e-machine diligently generates electricity, which helps to save fuel during propulsion. The two engines, which deliver a total of 85 kW/115 hp, work together comfortably and smoothly.
If the accelerator pedal is operated particularly sensitively, the Vitara even roams along silently for short distances in EV mode. However, if you want to accelerate cautiously, the combustion engine jumps in. The naturally aspirated petrol engine can even sound a bit obtrusive when the automated 6-speed transmission shifts up late at a brisk pace and turns out the gears for a long time. However, the consumption remained quite modest: In the urban environment we came up with 5.7 liters, on the motorway at 130 km/h it was one liter more.
The costs
The Vitara 1.5 Dualjet Hybrid with front-wheel drive including automatic transmission and the Comfort equipment is available for just under 30,000 euros. Alternatively, there is Comfort from 32,350 euros. Then there are automatic air conditioning, distance cruise control, infotainment system with navigation system, glass sunroof, plenty of assistance systems and chic seat covers and on board.
The Competitors
Whether it's a small SUV like the Kia Stonic or VW T-Cross or something a bit more lavish like the Fiat 500X or Renault Captur - the Vitara is somewhere in between in terms of size and price. Even if it is not a bargain, it remains well positioned in terms of technology and price in view of the new drive technology and extensive and modern equipment in the broad competitive environment.
Finally
Supple, comfortable, efficient and occasionally purely electric - the new 1.5-litre hybrid petrol engine is an economical and pleasant drive for everyday driving. It gives the aged Suzuki Vitara a pleasant freshness.
Suzuki Vitara 1.5 Hybrid - specifications
