SUZUKI IGNIS
Cheeky F and cheapy - we attended the launch of Suzuki’s new mini-city-suv, the Ignis!
#Likenoother was the main topic at the recent launch of the brand-new Suzuki Ignis.
First shown at the 2015 Paris Motor show and launched in South Africa at the end of May 2017, this car should attract an abundance of attention.
Even before its release, the Ignis has been voted a runnerup in the World Urban Car award. The reason for this is that the Ignis can’t be seen as either a Jimny or Swift, but rather a combination of the two iconic Suzuki models.
Ignis is Latin for “fire”, by the way. With a length of 3,700 mm, 1,690mm width and 180mm of ground clearance, it’s slightly smaller than a Swift, yet just a bit closer to the road than the Jimny.
Although it’s only front-wheel drive, the Ignis 1.2 litre engine (61kw/113nm) is well suited to the urban jungle and a bit of rural terrain.
The four- cylinder definitely delivered, even on the longer stretches of its launch route.
At an indicated 120km/h it’s doing around 3,000rpm. With five gears running relatively low revs, the Ignis claims fuel consumption of 5.1L/100km; and 0.2 less for the automatic. 0-100 takes 11,6 seconds.
The Ignis carries the same HEARTECT chassis as Baleno, resulting in a lower overall mass. The combination of its Mcpherson struts, coil springs with gas filled dampers, antiroll bar ( front suspension) and coil springs with an antiroll bar (rear) makes the drive very comfortable.
Clinging to the bends, the little Suzuki’s rather light weight (850kg kerb mass) also helps it to comfortably sweep over any bumps.
Inside, the Ignis seems a lot bigger than from the outside. The front and back of the cabin is large enough to house 1.80m adults. The luggage room of 260L can expand to a sizeable 469 litres with the rear seats folded.
Both the GL and GLX models feel roomy and comfortable inside with the two-tone black and cream scheme creating a joyful and ‘hip’ atmosphere.
The GL and GLX models also come with several add- ons such as electric windows, remote central locking, power steering, RADIO/MP3/CD/USB (Bluetooth in the GLX model) system, air-conditioning, 12V power socket, Dual SRS front airbags, ABS, EBD, electronic brake assistance, side impact protection, Isofix anchors and of course child- proof rear door locks.
The GLX also features a start / stop button, climate control, rear speakers, front tweeters and an information system which displays average fuel consumption, driving range and average speed.
Another option is the central touch-screen that can connect with IOS and Android devices.
Ignis exterior design follows Suzuki DNA with features like sharp daytime running lights, a large front bumper and large air intake. The GLX features front fog lights and cool LED daytime running lights, the GL has halogen lights.
Besides its higher ground clearance, Ignis also looks a bit more “buff” with bolder wheel arches. Combined with 15” black alloys and a chrome accent around its front grille, the GLX model is especially appealing and aggressive.
Already respected for i ts success with Jimny and Swift, Suzuki keeps improving their line-up. We recently drove the new Baleno, one of the best handling and practical cars in the market segment. With the release of the Ignis, it is clear that Suzuki wants to continue innovating.
Allow me to make a Harry Potter reference - Ignis is like Hermoine Granger’s handbag. It looks small from the outside yet is a comfy and spacious “home” on the inside.
Yes, luggage space may be small with four people inside, but the Ignis is bigger than its small hatchback competitors. The added ground clearance is an absolute benefit and the car has little body roll around corners.
The 1.2 GLX will also be sold with a five-speed automated manual gearbox. This means that no clutch will be needed for gearshifts.
The driving quality is very good with little road noise, comfy seats and an easy-touse info system.
The Ignis GLX model features a lot more practicality inside, although both the GL and GLX models will have the same space and comfort inside.
Suzuki, as it always does, has managed to think innovatively about this new model. Being a small hatchback, it will be very effective in the everexpanding city, yet practical enough to take the dirt roads on a family weekend.
The Ignis, like the Swift and Jimny before it, is sure to stand out on the roads. This then is exactly what Suzuki is looking for, to create new cars in innovative forms.
All of the Ignis models will come with a promotional FIVE year / 200,000km warranty and a two-year / 30,000km service plan. Models and Prices: 1.2 GL (M) N$179,900 1.2 GLX (M) N$199,900 1.2 GLX (A) N$214,900
“...very effective in the ever- expanding city, yet practical enough to take the dirt roads on a family weekend.”