The Suzuki Vitara is a popular choice here in the UK, thanks to its affordable price and low running costs.
The latest iteration has been around since 2015, with the Japanese firm having slightly tweaked it along the way.
Its design has aged very nicely and it sits in the compact SUV class, which is brimming with choice.
So, is the Suzuki Vitara the right car for you? Well, here at V12 Sports and Classics, we’ve compiled a list of everything that this little Japanese SUV excels in, to see if it suits your needs, so read on to find out more.
It’s good to drive
The Vitara handles well. (Suzuki)
Ever since the firm brought out the third-generation Swift in 2005, Suzukis have retained a sporty and agile feel that makes them really good fun to drive.
Like the Swift hatchback, the Vitara is also impressive out on the road with limited body lean around the corners. The steering has a sharp and direct feel to it, too.
There is also a choice of engines, with a 1.4-litre turbocharged mild-hybrid petrol packing 127bhp and 173Nm of torque. Older examples come equipped with a 1.6-litre naturally-aspirated unit that develops 118bhp and 115Nm of torque.
It comes with lots of standard equipment
All models are very well equipped. (Suzuki)
Suzuki cars never shy away from standard equipment, and the Vitara is fully loaded across the range.
All models come with DAB digital radio, Bluetooth, cruise control, climate control and all-round electric windows.
The mid-level SZ-T adds more equipment such as 17-inch alloy wheels, rear privacy glass and satellite navigation.
Meanwhile, flagship SZ5 models boast further toys with LED headlights, suede seat fabric, keyless entry with push button start and a panoramic glass sunroof.
Later cars, such as the Motion and Ultra specifications, also receive traffic sign recognition, lane-departure warning, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as adaptive cruise control.
Second-hand prices are affordable
The Vitara is an affordable used buy. (Suzuki)
You will be spoilt for choice on the second-hand market, with plenty of Vitaras for sale through the V12 Sports and Classics website.
Earlier 2018 cars with the older 1.6-litre engine are priced from £9,195 with around 33,000 miles on the clock, whereas facelifted 2022 examples with the 1.4-litre turbocharged engine and automatic gearbox will cost around a reasonably-priced £13,695.
If you want a newer 2023 car with low mileage, then there’s a 21,000-mile 1.4-litre SZ5 example for £14,495.
There’s a choice of four-wheel drive
The Allgrip four-wheel drive system gives the car added traction. (Suzuki)
If you need to go off-roading or live somewhere that is prone to ice and snow, then Suzuki offers the Vitara with four-wheel drive.
The Allgrip four-wheel drive system is paired to a 1.4-litre turbocharged petrol engine, which also gives you more grip out on the road and is a lot more capable on the rough stuff, too.
It makes for a great used family car
It's very practical. (Suzuki)
The Vitara makes for a great second-hand family car because of its affordable prices and practical interior.
Thanks to its boxy design, there is plenty of room in the back for passengers, and there is a decent amount of legroom.
In terms of storage space, there are front door pockets, which are big enough to carry water bottles, two cup holders in the centre console and a shelf located above the gear lever, which is perfect for storing your phone.
Boot space stands at 375 litres or 1,160 litres with the 60:40 split folded rear seats pushed down. The space itself is also usable and is square-shaped, making it easier to slide longer and taller items straight to the back.
If you go for a four-wheel drive example, boot space drops to 289 litres, but you still get a 60:40 split folding rear bench and a decent overall shape.
It has a good reliability record
Suzukis are some of the most reliable cars on the road. (Suzuki)
The current Vitara has been on sale since 2015, and it’s proved to be a tough and dependable SUV.
Suzuki has built up a good reputation for reliability and the Vitara is one of the most capable models it currently makes.
The Vitara hasn’t shown any serious issues with its mechanicals, electrics or interior trim.
Think the Suzuki Vitara could be right for you? We’ve got loads of examples available to look at here at V12 Sports and Classics, so check them out today.