I feel a bit like a prophet for compact crossovers.
Earlier I drove the Fiat 500X, now this Suzuki Vitara. So, let's see how it is.
This segment is hot. They're small and economical yet fun and different.
So: the Renault Captur, the Opel Mokka, the Nissan Juke. Fun cars.
Suzuki wants to be back in. They pioneered in the 70's with the Jimny.
No-one had heard of the Renault Captur back then.
I wasn't sure about this Vitara at first, as Suzuki has the S-Cross too.
Yet here it is. More frivolous and a tad smaller than the S-Cross.
This is more of a Captur-fighter, while the S-Cross could take on the Qashqai.
Underneath it shares a lot. Like the drivetrains: an NA petrol and a turbodiesel, both 120 PS 1.6's.
This is the petrol car with a manual 5-speed. It needs some revs to get going.
Shifting is nice. So is the steering. It's a bit more direct. Like it should.
In a crossover, you sit high. Same here. And the seats are sturdy.
The interior is more fun, yet not as special as the competition.
However, there is this cool little clock in the middle!
Design-wise it's fairly conservative. Modern too, though.
I reckon the designer looked a bit at the Range Rover Evoque.
Judging from the bonnet, headlights and some other elements.
If you really like it, be patient: it will be around from March on.
Both engines and optional All Grip 4WD. There may be a quicker turbo version, too.
+ Nicely spacious; Steers well
- Satnav ergonomics; Fairly bleak interior