Restyling

Suzuki relaunches hybrid with new Vitara

The fourth generation of the Japanese crossover has the hybrid powertrain as one of its strong points, as well as being comfortable and spacious. And the equipment for the 2024 model year is truly comprehensive

31 May 2024

3' min read

If more Suzuki cars are sold in Italy than in any other European country, there must be a reason. The Japanese brand was the first in Europe to focus on the hybrid, which it now offers across its entire range, guaranteeing its reputation as one of the most CO2-friendly brands on the market today as it waits for the sustainability of electrics to become accessible to a wider range of users. Speaking of 100% battery-powered models, Suzuki is also preparing to make its debut in the sector, and will do so by the end of the year as it has long since announced;

The fourth-generation Vitara goes on sale in mid-June

In the immediate future, Suzuki continues to focus on the evolution of an offer starting with the fourth generation Vitara, which accounts for 28.1% of sales in Italy and adds to the recent revamp of the Swift, the brand's other workhorse as it accounts for 23.5% of Italian sales. The new Vitara presents itself with an aesthetic that changes above all at the front, where the new black protection around the number plate and the grille with more elegant chrome stand out. The design of the more aerodynamic alloy wheels is also new.

Mostly improving is safety as well as on-board hitech

More substantial, however, are the innovations in driver aids. Automatic braking and lane keeping have been improved, as well as debuting further systems such as the speed limit warning. Classically styled, the new Vitara is even more economical in terms of fuel consumption, with an average of 16 km per litre verified by the on-board computer during the first contact divided between urban and extra-urban roads at the wheel of the 1.4 version, which despite not being a sports car proved to be brilliant.

Good driving comfort and fuel consumption is low

On-board comfort is also good, thanks to suspension that is more oriented to absorbing bumps than to more extreme driving. If for the 1.4 Naturally Hybrid, which is a 116 hp turbo, the smooth and precise 6-speed manual transmission is sufficient, for the more powerful 1.5 Hybrid, which is aspirated but produces 140 hp, the standard automatic transmission is the ideal solution. While the powertrain offering has not changed compared to the current model, the cabin is notable for a change in model pace;

New graphic interface and improved camera

At the centre of the dashboard is the new 9-inch touch screen with a new, more modern and also easier-to-use graphic interface. Also standard are Android Auto and Apple CarPlay wireless systems to connect all smartphones to the car wirelessly. The circular intake vents are very classic, while the improved system's camera that checks that the driver does not take his eyes off the road is useful. As for roominess, it is also good for five passengers, while the boot is generous.

The equipment is really complete right from the basic model

As for equipment, it is really complete for the entry model in the range, the 1.4 Hybrid Cool on sale for 25,900 euro that offers automatic climate control, full LED headlights, 17-inch alloy wheels, rear view camera and integrated navigation system. For the Top there is an additional 2,200 euros, but the mirrors are electrically foldable and the upholstery is even more refined. For both there is also the option of four-wheel drive by adding 3,000 euros. Sales forecasts of 10,000 units per year, 50% 2WD and 50% 4WD.

The strike price net of incentives and discounts

The starting price of the new Suzuki Vitara of 25,900 euro accesses state incentives of 1,500 euro by scrapping a Euro 4 or 2,000 euro for a Euro 3 up to 3,000 euro for Euro 2, 1 or 0. To these incentives must be added a discount of 2,500 euro or up to 3,000 euro planned for the launch phase by Suzuki's Italian branch and valid until 30 June. The result is that the base price of the Vitara 2024 can drop as low as 20,400 euro. Finally, the launch of the new Vitara at Italian dealerships has been scheduled for the week of June 9th to 15th;