JOIN THE JET SET
Suzuki’s Vitara is an SUV that doesn’t empty your wallet
As I fired the car, in sport mode, along a twisting country lane, I thought, “Wow – I didn’t expect it to be this much fun.”
And I was as astonished when driving through a congested city centre to see the mileage range on the on- board computer actually going up, instead of decreasing rapidly.
You see, the car in question was an SUV – not normally the type of vehicle you might associate with dynamic handling and fuel efficiency.
But the Suzuki Vitara S was debunking all my misconceptions in the most pleasing way.
And I loved the exterior styling – it looks just like a proper no-nonsense off-road car should.
Inside, the sporty theme continues, with red stitching on the very comfortable suede seats, leather-trimmed multi-function steering wheel, a swathe of brushed si lver finishing across the dash and alloy pedals.
The analogue clock atop the dash adds a touch of panache, whi le the easy- to- use seven- inch touchscreen infotainment system sits in the centre console.
There’s ample room up front, while two adults or three kids will be comfortable in the back.
And the 375- l itre boot (710 litres with the rear seats folded) easily passed the golf bag and trolley test.
Under the bonnet of the Vitara S sits a new 140PS 1.4-litre turbo petrol engine equipped with what Suzuki call BOOSTERJET technology.
Mated to a precise short-shift six-speed manual gearbox, the Vitara S hits 62mph from a standing start in just 10.2 seconds before topping out at 124mph. Even with this performance, the claimed average fuel consumption is 52.3mpg.
The fuel economy is also undoubtedly helped by Suzuki’s intelligent four-mode ALLGRIP four-wheeldrive technology. Auto mode makes fuel economy a priority and mostly uses two-wheel drive unless it anticipates or experiences wheelspin.
Sport is ideal for winding country roads, while Snow promotes traction on slippery surfaces and Lock mode will get you out of difficulty through use of a limited slip differential.
Accelerat ion and gr ip through corners are always assured, the steering is really responsive but not twitchy and the braking smooth and without drama.
The equipment list is equal ly impressive, including a rear parking camera, DAB radio and sat nav. It all adds up to an incredible package for just £20,899.