SUZUKI VITARA 1,6 GL+

THIS month, I found myself somewhat perplexed by a gradual yet obvious deterioration in the Suzuki Vitara’s fuel economy. At first, I put it down to the combination of an increase in petrol-sapping traffic and far more liberal use of the light crossover’s particularly effective (but unfortunately singlezone) air-conditioner.

An ever-so-slight uneasiness in handling prowess followed, which prompted me to check the tyres. Somewhat surprisingly, my suspicions were confirmed. I discovered that the right rear rubber had developed a slow puncture, losing about 0,1 bar a day.

Although I initially blamed a leaky valve stem, it turns out a pesky nail had forced its way through the 215/60 R16 tyre's surface. Blast. Well, thankfully, not literally.

After a quick repair – without having to resort to digging out the space-saver spare – I was on my way, with the 1,6-litre fourpot returning to its pleasingly frugal ways. Still, the incident made me wonder: how much would a replacement tyre have set me back?

Well, a few calls to local dealerships revealed an average price of around R 2200 for a single Con ti premium contact 5. Not excessive for a vehicle in this segment, but still an outlay I thankfully avoided.

Other than that single tyre’s gradual loss of pressure and the odd cabin creak, the Vitara has been going about its duties virtually flawlessly. It still rides rather well – and even holds its own on the odd gravel jaunt – yet is nimble enough to handle a spot of brisk driving on snaking strips of tarmac.

Now, if I could just avoid rogue nails...