By Malusi Msomi

We recently flew down to KwaZulu-Natal for the local launch of the all-new Suzuki Grand Vitara SUV which reenters a highly-competitive segment with modish looks, new technologies, a new powertrain with a mild hybrid system, two- and four-wheel drive options for the flagship models, improved safety, and competitive pricing.

Grand Vitara exterior 

On the outside, the new Grand Vitara beats a more imposing look up front thanks to split headlights with three-point slim LED daytime running lights which flank its multi-level grille. More front-end highlights include a clamshell bonnet design and a deeply sculpted lower bumper.

In profile, the Grand Vitara has a sharp shoulder line that stretches all the way to the rear lights and across the luggage door. All models feature roof rails and 17-inch alloy wheels. In the GL model, the alloy wheels are painted, while the GLX versions have machine-polished rims of the same size.

At the rear, a thin LED light bar stretches the width of the car. This is also fitted with three-dimensional LED lights. Reverse and turn signal lights are fitted in a deep, sculpted section at the very edges of the lower bumper.

All models can be ordered with the choice of Arctic White, Splendid Silver, Opulent Red, Grandeur Grey, Celestial Blue, Midnight Black and pearlescent versions of Arctic White and Cave Black. Two-tone options, with a black roof and side mirrors, are available in Arctic White, Splendid Silver and Opulent Red.

Overall, we like the bold new look of the Grand Vitara.

Grand Vitara interior

Inside, occupants are greeted by a multi-layer dashboard, plush seats (full leatherette for the GLX derivative) which have been specifically designed for the Grand Vitara, a standard 7-inch display with reverse camera or a 9-inch touch display with crisp graphics. The high-spec GLX model is also equipped with a nifty Head Up Display.

As standard, all models come with full-colour TFT display between the speed- and tachometer, keyless access, keyless start/stop, electric windows, wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto, automatic climate control, cruise control, and a leather covered multi-functional steering wheel.

The range-topping Grand Vitara GLX adds on model-specific equipment like wireless charging tray, ambient lighting (including in the foot-wells), additional USB-charging sockets for rear passengers, a panoramic sunroof and additional speakers, including tweeters.

The cabin of the new Grand Vitara is well-appointed, welcoming and a comfortable, and spacious place to be in.

Grand Vitara safety and assistance systems

All Grand Vitara models have six airbags as standard, including side curtain airbags that stretch across the length of the cabin. They’re also equipped with electronic stability control (ESP), ABS brakes with Emergency Brake Assist (EBA), Hill Hold Assist (HHA) and rear parking sensors as standard. ISOFIX, with both top and bottom tethers, are also standard across the range.

Grand Vitara performance

The Suzuki Grand Vitara will be offered with the choice of two versions of Suzuki’s K15 engine. The first engine is the K15B, a naturally aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine that delivers 77 kW at 6 000 rpm and 138 Nm at 4 400 rpm.

The second engine on offer, and a first for Suzuki in South Africa, is the K15C petrol engine with mild hybrid electric power. It has a power output of 75.8 kW at 6 000 rpm and 136.8 Nm at 4 400 rpm. This derivative of the Grand Vitara is fitted with the brand’s sixth generation AllGrip Select system. In contrast to the version available on the Jimny, this AllGrip system is said to automatically switch its power between the various wheels depending on road conditions and driver input.

Despite this automatic operation of the system, it is also switchable from inside the cabin. The driver can choose between Auto, Sport, Snow and Lock (to keep the power evenly distributed between all four wheels if the conditions require it).

Suzuki is claiming an average fuel-consumption of 6.0l/100km for the naturally-aspirated engine and 5.6l/100km for the powertrain with mild hybrid tech.

Grand Vitara driving impressions

We got to experience driving the new Grand Vitara across diverse off-road terrain.. The all-wheel drive variant impressively navigated through a rugged and slick trail up the Outeniqua Mountains, while the two-wheel drive versions displayed equally sturdy suspension on the gravel segments.

Although the hybrid powertrain equals the KB15B engine’s power output, the performance gap between the two was not significant.

Grand Vitara pricing and warranty

Grand Vitara 1.5 GL 5MT – R339,900

Grand Vitara 1.5 GL 4AT – R359,900

Grand Vitara 1.5 GLX 5MT – R397,900

Grand Vitara 1.5 GLX 4AT – R417,900

Grand Vitara 1.5 GLX 6AT Hybrid AllGrip – R529,900

The Suzuki Grand Vitara comes standard with a 5 year / 200 000 km promotional warranty plan and a

6 year / 90 000 km service plan. For the best Suzuki experience, your Suzuki Grand Vitara must be serviced once every twelve months or every 15 000 km, whichever comes first.