Suzuki enters its shining star

Yochanaan Coetzee - The Suzuki Vitara is one of the world’s favourite things on four wheels.

In 1988, when the Vitara was born as a family-orientated forest-fundi ferrier, its popularity in markets around the world skyrocketed and it quickly became an iconic car, suited for both the outward bound and those committed to their daily commute.

Over the years that followed, this formula has been refined, but it remained the brand’s ideological flagship.

The combination of safe go-anywhere ability, economy and family comfort evolved throughout the years, and when the latest generation was unveiled in 2015, the world once again took notice.

So much so that among a raft of international awards, it most recently took the Cars.co.za prize for Compact Family Car of the Year for both 2017 and 2018. This is no mean feat - especially considering the huge availability of excellent vehicles in this hotly-contested class.

Safe travel

With the Namibia Tourism Expo’s Win-a-Car competition aimed at getting adventurous souls the wheels they need to get out there and explore, omitting the Vitara would simply be an injustice.

“When it comes to safe travel, the Vitara definitely ticks all the boxes. Not only does it boast a full five-star Euro NCAP safety rating, but also offers occupants all modern amenities in a package that is comfortable and capable to take them wherever their wanderlust points,” said Charl Oosthuisen of Suzuki Windhoek.

The new Vitara has been comprehensively upgraded, is roomier than its predecessors and boasts a stout, raised stance.

Featuring short overhangs with wheel-arch extensions and front and rear skid plates, the Vitara epitomises modern compact SUV design trends, while still standing out from the pack.

Beautiful silver inserts decorate the grill, which is flanked by crisp LED-headlights.

Elements such as these give it a rugged, yet refined aesthetic.

Powering your passion

The four-cylinder 1.6 L power unit has been optimised for performance and efficiency through a variety of measures and technologies and has an output of 86 kW at 6 600 r/min, combined with maximum torque of 151 Nm at 4 400 r/min going to the front wheels.

The GL+ model we reviewed came with a slick six-speed, which makes daily drives and road trips even more enjoyable.

Interior

The spacious interior features smart cloth upholstery with contrasting stitching, while chrome and silver accents add upmarket appeal.

Its tilt and reach-adjustable steering wheel is equipped with multi-function controls for the audio system, cruise control and hands-free telephony while driving.

The slick sunroof also adds tons of open-air appeal.

Safety

As is the case with all Suzuki Vitaras, they come equipped with a comprehensive array of active and passive safety features.

Active systems include an 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, while IsoFix child seat tethers will keep baby safe in the back.

“A package this capable and comprehensively kitted, especially at this price, is truly an incredible offer.

“However, should readers feel lucky, they’re welcome to enter the Win-a-Car competition at the upcoming Namibia Tourism Expo, and they could win this fantastic vehicle for the price of a single adult entrance ticket,” he said.