Never Tear us Apart

Introduction: Three decades in, we are at a new level with the Legendary Grand Vitara, impressing on all fronts. With over eighty million automobiles sold worldwide by the Suzuki motor corporation, the brand is a force to be reckoned with and reliability and quality offerings are something that we have come to expect from Suzuki. Suzuki continues to focus on one of their mission statements to, “Develop products of superior value by focusing on the customer.” If you are looking for style and innovation, then the Suzuki Grand Vitara is a serious contender.

Engine/ Economy/ Drive/ Comfort: The lovely Grand Vitara compact SUV, comes with the 1.5 Liter K15C, 4-cylinder petrol engine, boosted by a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. The power is distributed to Suzuki’s sixth generation AllGrip variable all-wheel drive system via a six-speed automatic gearbox, producing 76 Kw and 137 Nm of torque. The integrated starter generator assists the engine with added power when heavy acceleration is needed and along with start/stop functionality, it helps with fuel economy. Suzuki claim a particularly good 5.6 Liters per 100 kms of combined driving, but I got to 7.5, thanks to my need for speed and continuous testing in between gears. The AllGrip AWD system can handle snow, mud, sand and also has an Auto setting to allow it to adapt to whichever condition is needed for all four wheels to work together in unison giving you that extra grip and peace of mind on and off the road – the lock function locks all four wheels if needed offroad. The outstanding 210 mm ground clearance gives the vehicle the freedom to go most places a normal 4x4 goes, but unfortunately, I was not able to put this to the test during this review but would love to one day – Noted on other reviews, the off roading ability was given credit. Town driving was pleasurable, and I thoroughly enjoyed the comfortable ride and excellent back support for the driver – something I really need. What impressed me hugely was the braking, stability, and all grip capability, after I was six cars and two trucks away from a 4x4 that rolled on the highway nearing Pmb. The Grand Vitara braked superbly, and I can say confidently that the above technology played a significant role in avoiding an accident and saving my life.

Features: There are some great features including; Dual slide panoramic sun roof, 360 degree panoramic camera, rear PDC and camera, ESC, 6 airbags with side curtains, ABS, Hill descent, Hill hold assist, automatic climate control, 17-inch machined-polished alloy wheels, Android auto/ Apple car play, BT, HUD, 22.8 cm infotainment digital display, keyless entry, start/ stop, Privacy glass on the rear, Leatherette interior, leather steering wheel with functionality, ambient lighting, Wireless charging tray, cruise control, Front 12V socket and USB in front and additional USB charging ports for rear passengers, rear aircon vents and more.

Interior/ Exterior/ Boot: The sleek exterior oozes confidence and is catchy on the eye, with the plush and ergonomic interior offering a premium feel and look. I love the front grille with the accentuated proud S badge, the silver roof racks and overall, the whole exterior looks fantastic. The good looking rear, boasts the Grand Vitara's neat badge and is home to a strip of LED lights that give the car that modern curb appeal. The space available for the front and rear passengers was ample and fitted my family of four in comfortably. The 328 L boot size is great and fitted in two cooler boxes, four tog bags, food and enough wine, biltong, and beer for a weekend away up to the gorgeous area of Zinkwazi on KZN’s stunning North coast.

Price/ Warranty/ Service Plan: From R542900, Warranty 5 years/ 200 000 kms, 4 years/ 60 000 km service plan with 15 000 km service intervals or every 12 months.

 In Summary: I love this car and I feel that the words from the famous song Never Tear us Apart, by INXS says it a nutshell, “Don’t ask me, what you know is true, Don’t have to tell you, I love your precious heart…..”  

I can see this vehicle being enjoyed not only by youngsters, but also by families and pensioners wanting a solid and reliable car to get them from A to B and to one of South Africa’s beautiful holiday spots, being suitable for the BBB of travel – Berg, Beach, and Bush.

*This article is written in my opinion only. For detailed information on the specs, please contact Suzuki SA*