Rokkit

The all-new Baleno which will make its world premiere at the 66th IAA Frankfurt Motor Show* will raise the bar for compact hatchbacks.

Since manufacturing its first car in 1955, the Suzulight, Suzuki has produced a variety of compact cars that deliver value much greater than their sizes. Developed using the company’s compact car expertise, the Baleno has an elegant and powerful design, a spacious cabin and luggage space plus a host of new technologies.

The new technologies include a rigid, lightweight new generation platform, highly responsive 1.0-litre direct-injection turbo BOOSTERJET engine, and SHVS (Smart Hybrid Vehicle by Suzuki) featuring engine assist by an integrated starter generator. All of these contribute to a fun yet efficient driving experience, giving the Baleno much more than just good looks and convenience.

In addition to fulfilling fuel efficiency and dynamic performance expectations, the layout has been optimised and various technologies used to reduce weight in order to meet the rigorous size and weight requirements specific to compact cars.

When Suzuki set out to create a hatchback like none before, it first established a key guideline hold back on nothing. The result is the Suzuki Baleno, a harmonious combination of styling that flows, superb performance achieved through ground-breaking technologies, and smart packaging. To create a new, bar-raising hatchback that is fun to drive and engineered to meet today’s consumers’ needs, Suzuki wanted to take the compact car to the ultimate level. Baleno chief engineer Kunihiko Ito explains: “We set our sights on developing the ideal hatchback, one that makes no compromises, giving it an elegant, sophisticated and grown-up character. The Baleno perfectly embodies all the elements expected in a car of this size design, utility, comfort, manoeuvrability, superior driving performance, and fuel efficiency.

With its “Liquid Flow design theme, compact body, spacious interior, and efficient powertrains all on a new-generation platform- the Baleno offers style, utility, manoeuvrability, driving performance and fuel efficiency. It also offers comfort, including on long-distance journeys, with plenty of space for adults in both the front and rear, as well as generous luggage space.

Sales of the Baleno will start in Europe in the spring of 2016.

Baleno highlights:

New-generation platform, with increased rigidity and reduced weight, enhances fuel efficiency, handling and stability, while still achieving high levels of safety and NVH performance.
New 1.0 BOOSTERJET direct-injection turbo engine with high torque output and SHVS (Smart Hybrid Vehicle by Suzuki)*1 with 1.2 DUALJET engine both provide excellent fuel economy in combination with Suzuki’s most-aerodynamic hatchback design ever.

Sporty profile that is low and wide, avant-garde front section, wraparound windows, expressive character lines and gently contoured, continuous surfaces convey elegance and power.

Innovative features on the inside include advanced multi-information colour display, active cruise control with speed limiter, and a Smartphone Linkage Display Audio compatible with Apple CarPlay*2.

Seating for five people features generous shoulder room in front, and generous legroom in the rear.
Spacious and flexible boot offers best-in-class*3 luggage space.

Radar Brake Support (RBS) *2 and other comprehensive safety features add to safety and peace of mind.

*1 Only for vehicles with 1.2. DUALJET engine. *2 Availability depends on vehicle configuration. *3 -segment

hatchback as defined by Suzuki (hatchback with overall length of 3,700mm-4,100mm)

Styling that flows

The “Liquid Flow” design theme suggestive of an energetic mass of liquid in motion permeates throughout, articulated by curving lines and expressive surfaces. Meanwhile, a low and wide silhouette helps underline a strong and sporty look.

Exterior

Seen from the front, the body graciously flares outward from the cabin, resulting in a low, wide and sporty yet elegant profile that is complemented by a wide bumper, grille, distinctive LED positon lamps, and wraparound windows with blacked-out A-pillars. From the side, character lines that begin at the front and sweep toward the rear create flowing highlights, while a forward-sloping rear hatch suggests the moving forward of dynamic energy, and gently contoured, continuous surfaces create the impression of power amidst elegance.

Other exterior features:

High intensity discharge projector headlamps*, with a black and chrome design that emanates virility and sharpness, and LED position lamps*, which also work as daytime running lights, with inner lenses that produce an even line of light, convey a high-tech impression.

“Guide me light” headlamps* help users find their way in the dark after leaving the vehicle or when unlocking the doors by remote control.

LED rear combination lamps give an advanced impression due to an inner lens that projects an even beam*. Nine body colours include “Premium Silver Metallic”, which emphasises the body’s curving lines, and “Ray Blue Pearl Metallic”, which changes from a green hue to a red tinge, depending on surrounding lighting conditions.

Outer weather strips made of iridescent stainless steel and chrome door handles provide greater elegance*.
Wraparound windows with blacked-out A-pillars and black sashes* add to a sporty look. A thin roof-spoiler integrated into the flowing body lines help improve aerodynamic performance*.
16-inch alloy wheels* or 15-inch steel wheels* have a mechanical design that contrasts with the flowing design of the body.

Interior

The instrument panel is flared at each end for a sense of breadth and is characterised by curving lines. Silver accents stand out against the restrained black of the cabin, and reddish-amber illumination for the audio, air conditioner, gear shift indicator, and other controls underline the cabin’s stylishness.

Beyond elegant styling, interior innovations that make vehicle usage informative, comfortable and easier:
A large, high-definition colour LCD display in the instrument cluster shows performance and other information through user-friendly graphics. Highlighted features include driving G-force, engine output and torque, accelerator/brake operation, and energy flow (for vehicles with SHVS), among others.*

A Smartphone Linkage Audio Display with a 7-inch touch panel screen has a USB port and SD card slot and displays the view behind the vehicle by way of a rear view camera*. It can be connected to an iPhone via a USB cable for using Apple CarPlay’s various functions, such as Maps, Phone, Messages, and Music, as well as Podcasts, Audiobooks, and third-party Apple CarPlay compatible audio apps. It can also be connected to smartphones using MirrorLink.

A unique circular display and a high-contrast LCD panel highlight the automatic air conditioner*.
An adaptive cruise control system uses millimetre wave radar to monitor following distance and automatically accelerate or decelerate the vehicle to maintain a long, medium, or short distance from any vehicle directly in front as set by the driver. It also features a speed limiter that prevents the vehicle from exceeding the maximum speed set by the driver, regardless of the extent to which the accelerator pedal is pushed.

* Availability depends on vehicle configuration.

Technology-enhanced performanc

The new Baleno features three new technologies for achieving better driving performance and better fuel efficiency: a new-generation platform, the new BOOSTERJET direct-injection turbo engine and the SHVS mild hybrid system.

New-generation platform

A new Suzuki platform was developed by radically reviewing the basic structure of the vehicle underbody in pursuit of achieving lighter weight and enhancing fundamental vehicle performance. Compared to the platform currently used in the same vehicle class, body rigidity has been enhanced by approximately 10 per cent and, due to the use of a continuous skeletal structure that creates a smooth form, total vehicle weight has been reduced by approximately 15 per cent. Additionally, by aiming for optimisation of the entire vehicle including components attached to the underbody, Suzuki has been able to keep vibration and noise in check, while maintaining riding comfort.

New 1.0 BOOSTERJET direct-injection turbo engine

The 1.0 BOOSTERJET is a newly developed direct-injection turbo engine that achieves both good fuel economy and driving pleasure, which is made possible by using a small displacement, high torque turbocharger. By controlling the wastegate valve, which closes to create higher boost pressure during heavy-load operation and remains opened during normal driving, the BOOSTERJET reduces pumping loss, thus achieving high levels of both power performance and also fuel-efficiency.

The Baleno features the 1.0 BOOSTERJET engine, which has a maximum output of 82kW and a maximum torque of 170Nm.

The Baleno is also available with a new 1.2 DUALJET, a dual-injection petrol engine with improved thermal efficiency that strikes an excellent balance between power performance and fuel efficiency.

Regarding transmissions, the 1.0 BOOSTERJET can be paired with either an optimally geared five-speed manual incorporating a specially designed convergent gear locating system that helps reduce frictional losses and improve shift feel or a six-speed automatic transmission that enables high performance at low speeds and optimum fuel-efficiency at high speeds.

The 1.2 DUALJET can be paired with either the same five-speed manual transmission as the 1.0 BOOSTERJET or with a continuously variable transmission.

An intuitive suspension has been developed for direct-response handling with MacPherson struts and coil springs up front and a torsion beam and coil springs in the rear. Reduced rolling resistance tyres improve fuel efficiency without sacrificing directional stability, ride comfort, and braking performance.

Fine-tuned over repeated test runs in Europe, the Baleno offers a driving experience achieved by Suzuki’s pursuit of the best balance between nimble performance and refined riding comfort.

New mild hybrid system (SHVS)*1

The SHVS is a mild hybrid system by Suzuki that uses an ISG (Integrated Starter Generator) to assist the engine during acceleration and also generates electricity through regenerative braking, which it does more efficiently than systems using conventional alternators.

Using the electricity stored through regenerative braking, the electric motor function of the ISG improves fuel efficiency by partially assisting the engine, which it does by making up for the additional added portion of fuel usually required during the high-fuel-consuming actions of starting from a stop and accelerating. It also allows for a smooth and quiet restart after an automatic engine stop, thanks to the use of an ISG belt-drive start, rather than restart by a conventional starter motor. Furthermore, the SHVS uses a compact, high-charging-performance lithium ion battery, making possible frequent engine assists. In the Baleno, the system aims to lessen the footprint on the environment with a CO2 emissions target of 93g/km*2.

*1 Only for vehicles with 1.2. DUALJET engine. *2 Tentative figure for vehicles with SHVS.

Smart packaging

The common difficulty of achieving both a stylish design and a spacious interior has been overcome by ensuring maximum space through repeated revisions down to a single millimetre. The result is smart packaging that not only achieves spacious comfort, but also best-in-class luggage space. A key element in achieving this within an overall body length of less than four metres is a new-generation platform that enables efficient use of space plus a more-compact engine design with a less-tilted mounting position that also frees up more interior room.

Seating considerations

The front seats come with ample shoulder room due a wide space between the driver and passenger seat positions. Both seats feature an optimised shape and spring position for ride comfort and high-tensile materials for lightness and strength. The rear seats feature ample legroom, due to a substantial front-rear-seat tandem distance of 805mm. They can be easily folded by a single action and come in various bench or split configurations with three separate-type head restraints. Also, ingress and egress in the rear is facilitated by generous rear door apertures.

Luggage space

The luggage space boasts 355 litres, making it the largest among B-segment hatchbacks*. To accommodate long or wide items, the shape of the suspension has been optimised to free up space on both sides at the back of the boot. Flexibility is another key asset of the luggage space. The space can be enlarged by folding down the rear seatbacks, sliding the front seats forward, and using the luggage board in either its upper or lower position.

* According to a Suzuki survey of B-segment hatchbacks as defined by Suzuki (a hatchback model with an overall length of 3,700mm-4,100mm) and measured using the German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA) method.

Safety and security

Safety performance for assisting the driver and mitigating injury in accidents is enhanced by a number of safety technologies, chief among which is Radar Brake Support*1 (RBS). With RBS, when the vehicle is travelling at a speed greater than approximately 5 km/h, millimetre wave radar detects any vehicle that might be directly in front. Upon detecting a potential collision, depending on the situation, the vehicle 1) alerts the driver, 2) increases braking force, or 3) automatically applies the brakes. Other safety features include *2, six SRS airbags and an impact absorbent body. Various components have also been designed to lessen injuries sustained by pedestrians in vehicle-to-person collisions.

*1 Availability depends on vehicle configuration. *2 ESP is a registered trademark of Daimler AG.

Suzuki Motor Corporation has announced its exhibits for the 44th Tokyo Motor Show 2015 (organised by the Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association), which will open to the public on 30 October until 8 November.

The theme for Suzuki’s booth is “SUZUKI NEXT 100”. Suzuki will be celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2020, so the exhibits represent proposals for products and technologies that give a sense of the company’s preparations for ongoing success in the next 100 years.

A range of concept models will show how Suzuki can deliver wonder and enjoyment to drivers and riders. The concept cars will include the IGNIS, which gives shape to Suzuki’s foray into the new compact crossover genre; and the MIGHTY DECK, which offers new kinds of fun in the minicar segment.

The booth will also highlight other technologies that include exhibits such as cutaway models of newly developed engines.

MIGHTY DECK: a new-concept minicar offering new kinds of enjoyment and utility

The MIGHTY DECK is a new, fun-oriented minicar with a canvas top and an open load deck that can be repositioned for diverse purposes.

An “urban/outdoor” concept is embodied by features that free people to move between contrasting situations and mind sets: city and nature; home and away; work and leisure or relaxed and playful.

Wide-ranging functionality including an automatic raise/lower function for the open deck accommodates lifestyle situations ranging from daily life to leisure.

Air Triser: a newly conceived three-row compact minivan with a private lounge

The Air Triser is a new-concept three-row compact minivan within a manageable body size, it offers a cabin where roominess and smart seat configurability embody the concept of a private lounge.

While the Air Triser is parked, the seats can be configured in a relaxation mode (where the seats face each other) or in a lounge mode (where the seats form a U-shape sofa). Users can enjoy media content from a smartphone on a large format display that extends from one of the B-pillars up to the roof line.

The extent to which the Air Triser enables users to enjoy their time together not only on the move but also while they’re stationary makes it unprecedented among minivans.

IGNIS: new-genre compact-crossover versatility for daily life and leisure

The IGNIS shows how a compact car can straddle the boundary between daily life and leisure. A high eye point and plenty of ground clearance ensure day to day convenience. They also allow confident driving on snowy roads and rough tracks, so weekends become a chance to enjoy the great outdoors.

A compact, visually striking body and a simple, highly practical interior design highlight the IGNIS’s credentials in the compact crossover genre.

IGNIS-Trail Concept: even greater compact-crossover enjoyment

The IGNIS-Trail Concept expands upon the IGNIS concept of urban and outdoor versatility by offering even greater rough-road ruggedness.

Large diameter wheels and bold wheel-arch mouldings are included in a design package that heightens compact-crossover enjoyment by emphasizing the IGNIS-Trail Concept’s outdoor credentials.

Baleno: a new compact hatchback that blends dynamic, elegant styling with optimal packaging and high performance

The Baleno is an all-new B-segment hatchback in which Suzuki refined the styling, performance, fuel economy, and practicality expected of a compact car and brought them together in an outstanding new way.

Plenty of space for passengers and luggage means four adults can enjoy long journeys in comfort even when they’re carrying a full complement of gear.

Powertrain technologies include the newly developed 1.0-litre direct-injection, turbocharged BOOSTERJET engine and the 1.2-litre DUALJET engine.

• An all-new, innovative interpretation of the Suzuki Vitara ethos
• Smart, streamlined shape expresses contemporary design language
• Lightweight construction and efficient drivetrain ensure superior economy
• Advanced AllGrip all-wheel drive system delivers go-anywhere talent
• Full five-star EuroNCAP safety rating, with seven airbags across the range
• Extensive personalisation scope allows for individuality

Summary

The Suzuki Vitara has been an enduring success since the Japanese automaker launched the first Vitara 27 years ago.

At the time, the notion of a compact SUV was as unique as it was novel, and in that sense, the Vitara and the Grand Vitara that succeeded it pioneered the small SUV/crossover segment long before it became a recognised trend.

Almost three decades later, Suzuki is launching an all-new Vitara that builds on the SUV spirit of the original Vitara.

Totally reimagined and completely new from the ground up, the new Vitara combines a contemporary, streamlined shape with the raised stance of an authentic compact SUV, but also offers a spacious, car-like interior with comprehensive appointments.

At the same time, a combination of sleek aerodynamics, low kerb weight and an efficient drivetrain ensures that the Vitara scores high marks as far as fuel economy and CO2 emissions are concerned.

The new Suzuki Vitara competes in the compact crossover segment arguably one of the most closely contested sectors in the SA new vehicle market. But when equipped with Suzuki innovative AllGrip all-wheel drive system, it also becomes a contender in the compact SUV sector.

As result, the Vitara is perfectly positioned to attract buyers from both segments, while also offering a fresh design, exceptional economy, a high degree of personalisation, and superior active and passive safety standards. The AllGrip system adds real all-terrain capability, with four user-selectable driving modes.

The five-model Suzuki Vitara range spans three specification levels GL, GL+ and GLX and a choice of two transmissions, as well as either front-wheel or AllGrip all-wheel drive. All five models are equipped with the same, highly efficient four-cylinder petrol engine.
The 1,6-litre unit combines willing performance with exceptional efficiency, ensuring swift dynamics and frugal fuel economy. Maximum power output of

86 kW at 6 000 r/min is coupled to a torque peak of 151 Nm at 4 400 r/min.

AllGrip all-wheel drive, offered on two of the five Suzuki Vitara models, is a four-mode system that optimises traction in variety of driving conditions. It senses when additional traction will be required, and divides power between the front and rear axles accordingly.

The four selectable modes allow the system to be optimised for specific driving conditions. In addition, the AllGrip system includes a new hill descent control function.

Safety is another key hallmark of the new Suzuki Vitara. All five models are equipped with a full array of active and passive safety features that includes ABS anti-lock brakes with brake assist, electronic stability control, seven airbags (including a knee airbag), front seat belts with pre-tensioners and load limiters, and IsoFix child seat tethers.

As a result, the new Vitara attained a full five-star safety rating under the latest, stringent EuroNCAP crash safety tests.

“The all-new Vitara is a milestone vehicle for Suzuki says Yukio Sato, managing director of Suzuki Auto South Africa. “It embodies all the core values of the original, pioneering Vitara, but contextualises them in a completely new, thoroughly contemporary crossover vehicle that reflects the demands of the modern motorist.

“Thus, the new Vitara not only offers versatility and practicality, but also addresses key elements such as fuel economy, efficiency and safety more comprehensively than ever before.

“The result is a compelling compact crossover that will not only please existing Suzuki fans, but also attract new customers to the Suzuki fold, Sato concluded.

Exterior Design

While the new Vitara is a completely new from the ground up design, it also reflects an authentic Suzuki design language. It’s a compact vehicle, measuring just 4 175 mm long, 1 775 mm wide and 1 610 mm high, while short overhangs and a relatively long wheelbase express agile and wieldy dynamics.

The front view is dominated by Suzuki traditional clamshell bonnet design, which creates a solid visual foundation. A bold, two-blade grille links the bonnet to the trapezoidal lower air intake, which creates a strong visual link with the ground.

Slim, clear-lensed headlight clusters, colour-coded bumpers, recessed fog lamps (except on the GL model) and daytime running lights are all neatly integrated into the front-end design, while the short front overhang and raised stance create a purposeful appearance.

Those short overhangs become more apparent when viewing the Vitara in profile, allowing approach and departure angles of 18,2 degrees and 28,2 degrees respectively. The ramp breakover angle is 17,7 percent, while the minimum ground clearance is a useful 185 mm.

The side view also showcases the smooth, aerodynamic roofline, a powerful shoulder line, and an accent line that rises sharply over the rear fender to emphasise the Vitara muscular haunches. Roof rails, a wide opening tailgate and high-mounted tail light clusters link utility to aesthetic appeal.

Talking of which, the Vitara’s designers have added some effective visual accents, including fender garnishes at the base of the A-pillars, and blacked-out B and C-pillars.

Aerodynamic efficiency played a key role in the design of the new Vitara, extending from the wind-cheating overall profile to detailing such as the carefully shaped bumper apertures, flat underbody cladding, and smooth design of the exterior mirrors and front bumper edges.

The new Vitara also introduces three brand new colours Atlantis Turquoise pearl metallic, Horizon Orange metallic, and Savannah Ivory metallic. In addition, the roof and grille can be ordered in contrasting hues, depending on model and colour.

Indeed, the ability to personalise the Vitara to reflect individual style and preference is another innovative aspect of the newcomer. With eight exterior colours, four roof colours and three grille finishes (chrome, black an white), prospective buyers are offered a wide range of options to choose a Vitara that matches their personal preference.

There are also to optional, added-cost accessory packages that take the concept of individualisation another step further. The Urban Package adds chromes fog lamp bezels, subtle body side mouldings and a roof spoiler, while the Rugged Package includes front and rear scuff plates, bold side body mouldings, a contrasting fog lamp bezel and loading protection.

Interior design

The ability to personalise the Vitara extends to the cabin. But it’s also a roomy, comfortable space with an extensive list of standard convenience and safety features across all five models.

A user-friendly layout and tactile quality are core design elements, together with intelligent packaging that ensures an unexpected sense of space.

The clean sweep of the dashboard hosts a binnacle-protected instrument cluster directly ahead of the driver, and a centre stack that is home to the switchgear for the air-conditioning and audio system. A U-shaped centre console houses the gearshift lever.

The main instrument binnacle is dominated by dual analogue dials for speed and rev count, while an information display between the two dials offers selectable trip computer information, including instant/average fuel consumption, operating range, average speed, outside temperature, a trip meter, odometer and a digital clock.

The MP3/WMA-compatible multi-speaker audio system includes a CD player and FM/AM tuner, as well USB connectivity. In addition, integrated Bluetooth connectivity allows hands-free telephony.

The steering wheel is adjustable for tilt and reach, and depending on model, is equipped with convenient multifunction controls for the audio system, hands-free telephony, and cruise control and speed limiter systems.

The front bucket seats are height adjustable for both driver and front passenger, while the rear bench seat is split 60/40 and can be folded flat partially or completely to provide a versatile mix of loading space and rear seating.

The luggage compartment is easily accessible, thanks to a tailgate that opens all the way down to bumper level. At 1 120 mm wide and 730 mm high, the loading aperture easily copes with bulky objects.

The Vitara offers 375 litres of luggage space with the rear seatback raised, rising to 710 litres with the seatbacks folded down. A luggage board allows the luggage space to be divided for flexible loading solutions.

Interior stowage includes front and rear door pockets with integrated holders for bottles of 1,5 litres, a glove compartment, a driver side storage binnacle, dual front and rear cup holders, and a centre lower compartment which also hosts the USB and accessory sockets.

As mentioned, the interior of the new Suzuki Vitara can also be personalised by specifying contrasting or colour-coded accents to elements such as the dashboard insert, as well as the air vent and clock surrounds.

Drivetrain

The new Vitara is powered by Suzuki latest M16A 1,6-litre petrol engine. The four-cylinder power unit has been optimised for performance and efficiency through a variety of measures and technologies, including friction reduction, and reducing the mass of internal components.

The multipoint fuel-injected 1 586 cc engine also benefits from VVT variable valve timing to deliver a maximum power output of 86 kW at 6 600 r/min, combined with maximum torque of 151 Nm at 4 400 r/min.

While the same engine is used across the entire Vitara model range, would-be buyers can opt for either a five-speed manual or a six-speed automatic gearbox. The manual gearbox features optimised gear ratios benefiting both economy and performance, while a counterweight ensures a smooth, positive shift action.

The six-speed automatic transmission offers an even wider spread of ratios for improved response at pull-off and lower engine revs during open-road cruising. Manual override is available via shift paddles mounted behind the steering wheel.

True to the Vitara SUV heritage, two of the five models come equipped with Suzuki latest-generation AllGrip four-wheel drive system. Specifically adapted for its application in the Vitara, AllGrip offers four driving modes and adds real all-terrain capability without compromising fuel economy usually the Achilles heel of all-wheel drive systems.

The AllGrip system uses a feedback function to allocate torque to the rear wheels when the front wheels start losing traction.

For the Vitara, a new feed forward function enhances the system effectiveness even further by using information such as the road surface condition, accelerator pedal position and steering angle to predict a loss of traction, and to send torque to the rear axle even before front wheelspin actually occurs.

The AllGrip system default driving mode is Auto, which prioritises fuel economy during typical day-to-day on-road driving conditions by specifying front-wheel drive. However, it will introduce all-wheel drive when a loss of front-wheel traction is detected.

In Sport mode, AllGrip benefits composure on twisty roads by introducing all-wheel drive relative to throttle input. At midrange engine speeds, the accelerator/torque characteristics are adjusted to optimise engine response for confident cornering.

The Snow mode can be selected when traction is severely compromised, such as on muddy gravel tracks. All-wheel drive is selected by default, while traction and stability are optimised, based on steering and throttle input.

Finally, there is a Lock mode, which invokes a limited slip diff to brake the spinning wheel, thereby transferring the available torque to those wheels that retain traction.

The AllGrip system is further augmented by the inclusion of Hill Descent Control, which limits the speed of descent when negotiating steep downhills, thus ensuring optimum driver control.

Chassis and suspension

The new Suzuki Vitara employs an independent MacPherson strut-based front suspension. It employs reshaped lower arms, an improved suspension frame configuration and optimised struts to deliver higher rigidity and thus enhanced overall stability.

At the rear, the torsion beam design features the same closed-section beam design as the SX4 S-Cross, which achieves superior rigidity and a supple ride.

An all-disc braking system links ventilated front discs to solid discs are the rear. The callipers have been designed for both weight reduction and drag loss, thus benefiting both braking performance and efficiency.

Safety

The new Suzuki Vitara comes equipped with a comprehensive array of active and passive safety features. Active systems include electronic stability programme (ESP), and ABS anti-lock brakes with electronic brake force distribution (EBD) and electronic brake assist (EBA).

The passive safety features include seven airbags (dual front, side and curtain airbags, as well as a knee airbag for the driver), as well as a brake pedal release system. The front seating positions are equipped with seat belts featuring pre-tensioners and load limiters.

Head restraints are provided for all five seating positions, while IsoFix child seat tethers are also included.

From a pedestrian safety perspective, the bonnet shape and new structures for the cowl top, wipers and bumpers have all been designed to absorb impact forces when a car collides with a pedestrian.

The body structure of the new Vitara expresses Suzuki Total Effective Control Technology (TECT), aimed specifically at occupant-protecting impact absorption and low weight. Thus, extensive use of ultra-high tensile steel also contributed to the Vitara outstanding crashworthiness.

As a result, the new Vitara achieved a five-star rating in the authoritative 2015 EuroNCAP safety ratings.

The model range

The new Suzuki Vitara range consists of five models, spanning three specification levels, a choice of front or all-wheel drive, and either manual or automatic gearboxes. The same 1,6-litre petrol engine is used throughout.

Vitara 1.6 GL

The Suzuki Vitara 1.6 GL may be the most affordable member of the new Vitara family, but it still offers an extensive array of features, functions and capabilities. It links Suzuki M16A 1,6-litre engine to a five-speed manual gearbox and front-wheel drive.

The sleek, aerodynamic shape, with its short overhangs and extended wheelbase is a real head-turner, while the raised stance expresses the Vitara SUV heritage. Exterior features include wheel arch extensions and front and rear skid plates, while the grille, exterior door handles, exterior mirrors and fender garnishes are finished in contrasting black.

The GL is equipped with 16-inch steel wheels fitted with full wheel covers, and shod with 215/60 R16 tyres.

The smart, spacious interior features durable cloth upholstery throughout. Both front seats offer height adjustment in addition to adjustment for reach and backrest handle, while the rear bench seat is split 60:40, allowing each section to folded flat individually.

Comprehensive instrumentation is standard, and includes a trip computer with a digital display between the analogue rev counter and speedometer. It shows selectable information on average speed, instant and average fuel consumption, operating range, exterior temperature and gear selected.

The display also includes a gear shift indicator, seatbelt reminders, door ajar alerts and a low fuel warning light. A tilt and reach-adjustable steering wheel is equipped with multifunction controls for the audio system and hands-free telephony.

Electrically operated front windows and exterior mirrors are standard, as is remote central locking, manual air-conditioning with pollen filter, and a four-speaker audio system. The latter is MP3/WMA compatible and equipped with a CD player, FM/AM tuner, USB socket and Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free telephony. A 12V accessory socket is also provided.

The interior offers ample storage, including front and rear door pockets with

1,5-litre bottle holders, front and rear cup holders, and a glove compartment ahead of the front occupant. The 375 litre luggage compartment is equipped with a luggage cover.

Safety is comprehensively addressed via active measures such as ABS anti-lock brakes with EBD and EBA, as well ESP stability control, while passive systems include seven airbags, front seatbelts with pre-tensioners and load limiters, head restraints for all seating positions, and IsoFix child seat tethers.

An integrated alarm/immobiliser is standard, as are locks with freewheeling key cylinders.

Vitara 1.6 GL+

There are two Vitara models offering the GL+ specification level. Both feature the same combination of 1,6-litre engine and five-speed manual gearbox. However, the difference between the two is the addition of Suzuki’s innovative AllGrip four-wheel drive system on the second GL+ model.

The GL+ specification includes all the standard features of the GL, but there are several important additions and upgrades. Immediately apparent are the 16-inch alloy wheels, as are the colour-coded grille, door handles and exterior mirrors.

GL+ models can also be ordered in a two-tone exterior execution, with the roof finished in a contrasting colour to the main body colour.

The fender garnishes are finished in grey, and front fog lamps are standard, while dark-tinted privacy glass is fitted to the rear door windows, the rear quarter windows and the tailgate window.

Inside, the fabric upholstery gets smart, contrasting stitching, while a sprinkling of chrome and silver accents adds further appeal. The steering wheel gains leather trim, and the already comprehensive standard equipment list is further extended.

Thus, electric rear windows are now standard, as is cruise control (with steering wheel-mounted controls), and an analogue clock in the centre of the dashboard. The manual air-conditioning makes way for automatic climate control air-con.

The luggage compartment of the GL+ gains the added versatility of luggage area divider board, as well as a 12V accessory socket and a boot light. The GL+ with AllGrip features a drive mode selector in the centre console, as well as a drive mode indicator in the instrument cluster’s digital display.

Vitara 1.6 GLX

The GLX designation is reserved for the two flagships of the new Vitara line-up. Both models are powered by the same M16A 1,6-litre engine as the other variants.

However, the front-wheel drive GLX swaps the five-speed manual transmission for a six-speed automatic gearbox, complete with steering wheel-mounted shift paddles. The AlllGrip-equipped GLX retains the five-speed manual gearbox.

Exterior features unique to the GLX models include17-inch alloy wheels shod with 215/55 R17 tyres, while a panoramic glass sunroof is standard. The roof is electrically operated, and features a motorised internal blind.

Also unique are the silver roof rails, while the front grille and fender garnishes boast a chrome finish. The headlights feature LED projector low-beam elements, and LED daytime running lights. The exterior mirrors feature integrated indicators, and fold away at the press of a button.

The interior gains an even more upmarket ambience, thanks to the suede upholstery, while there’s a further equipment upgrade: front and rear parking sensors are standard, as is Hill Hold Control, automatic headlight activation and keyless starting.

Warranty, maintenance and service intervals

The Suzuki Vitara range is backed by a comprehensive three-year/100 000 km warranty, as well as a four-year/60 000 km service plan, and a three-year roadside assistance package. Services are at 15 000 km intervals.