Get to grips with Suzuki’s funky Ignis

SUZUKI has an enviably wide range of compact Crossovers.

There’s the utilitarian Jimny, the fashion-conscious Vitara, the family-friendly SX-4 S-CROSS, plus you could even count the 4WD version of the Swift supermini.

Now there’s another option from the brand, this trendy little Ignis.

The model sits on the new generation platform first seen in the Baleno but this time clothes it with much funkier styling Suzuki hopes will interest a whole new raft of image-conscious urban-based buyers.

At just 3.7m long, this new platform targets the reduction of weight as well as further increased rigidity and the lightest Ignis model has a kerb weight of just 810kg.

All Ignis buyers get a 1.2-litre Dualjet petrol engine, the one we’re familiar with elsewhere in Suzuki’s range in both the Swift and the Baleno.

As with the Baleno, those who are prepared to stretch towards topspec trim have the option of ordering this powerplant in more frugal SHVS mild hybrid form.

This compact and lightweight unit incorporates an Integrated Starter Generator (known as ISG) which acts as both a generator and starter motor.

The ISG is belt driven and assists the engine during vehicle take off and acceleration and also generates electricity through regenerative braking.

The SHVS system only employs its conventional engine starter motor when first started from cold. Under all other conditions, it uses the ISG unit to allow smooth and quiet engine restarts.

SHVS buyers also get the option of Suzuki’s ALLGRIP ‘AUTO’ fourwheel drive system. First introduced in Swift, this is a well proven and simple fully-automatic and permanent four-wheel drive layout which transfers additional torque to the rear wheels when required.

Enhancements to the Ignis ALLGRIP system include Hill Descent Control and Grip Control, which activates on slippery surfaces at speeds of less than 18mph. Once switched on by the driver, it focuses torque on the driven wheels that have grip and will quickly apply braking to the wheel that is spinning.

The Ignis is available in SZ3, SZ-T and SZ5 grades. As for prices, well they start at around £10,000 for the SZ3, rise to around £11,500 for the SZ-T and run further up to around £13,000 for an SZ5 with two-wheel drive. With this top trim level, there’s also the option of ‘ALLGRIP’ 4WD.