As a Hungarian I can confirm that we are the manufacturers of the Suzuki cars, the Vitara is the best selling car in my country, the technology behind the turbo engine is Japanise, Suzuki is one of the most reliable brands here along with the other Japanise brands. The country is full of 15-30 (yes, 30) year old Suzukis and they are still rolling. I just bought a new Vitara, it's a very nice car.
And what about the Suzuki S-Cross? I think that the S-Cross is a very underrated car. Yes it costs a bit more, but i can't decide if it is worth the money?
@@adnanmujkic we bought a 2021 S Cross SX4 in Türkiye and drive with pleasure. At the last moment, we switched from Vitara to this and we are very happy with our choice. It really is strong, durable, economic and performance car. It really worths the money and I definitely recommend it.
My wife had a first gen Vitara in the early 2000s, not only was it a a family car but she used it daily as a local parcel courier. It never missed a beat in 11 years, it sailed through every annual MOT test, parts replaced in 11 years : 4 new tyres, 1 battery, set of front brake pads. Oil filter, air filter, gallon of oil. That's it, total cost in 11 years. We also ran a 1st gen Swift at the same time, super reliable. I lost my wife in 2015 and now run a Suzuki Celerio , again after 5 years cheap as chips to run.
My friends have had Suzuki Forsas, Swifts, Samurais and I have a 2013 Grand Vitara and they've all been solid reliable vehicles. Those little Samurais could really go places offroad. My GV was made in Japan and feels very well put together. It's rock solid without any squeaks, rattles or flex, the simple controls have a nice quality tactile feel, climate control works well, the doors close with a very nice "thunk" and It drives nice too.
I bought one of these in 2020, great little SUV. I got the All Grip 1.4 turbo, it does mud snow and sand with no effort or chains required but avoid rocky roads, not enough clearance. Zero mechanical issues and I flog it. Get 8.2 per 100 around city and 6.2 driving down to Victoria with the active cruise control which works amazingly.
My 2017 1.4 turbo is averaging 6.1 litres per 100km, 96000km still drives like new, only replaced tyres and battery, servicing done on or before time and only use full synthetic oil.
The European version is a rational choice, the car looks good, it's basically bulletproof and foolproof, and the maintenance is cheap. My mother (71 years old) has one (naturally aspirated, manual, 1.6 four cyl) and that car takes a beating. When I first drove that car I was surprised how good the manual transmission was.
late to the show but i bought a 2017 S-Turbo in Jan 2022 . i use it for work as a service technician and put around 5000Kms on it each month. currently just ticked over 200,000Kms on the clock and just purs along. Recently did a week long camping trip through NSW. drove home from work on the Friday unloaded the work gear. loaded the camping gear filled the tank and drove 3000Kms. the last stint was from Lithgow to Brisbane in one go. in the last 150,000Kms the S-Turbo has 6.4L/100kms dhowing on the trip computer. I also run it 90% of the time on Costco E10 94 octane. never an issue. the only expense is regular 10K servicing and rear wheel bearings that got noisy.. My previous car was a 2006 Swift that i also used for work and put 200,000Kms on it . SUZUKI are severly underated!!
I Agree 100% this should have been a 'bigger Jimny' like the Grand Vitara. They would have sold heaps if they stuck to the true 4x4 heritage. Great review as always Team.
I've got a 2005 3 Door one and it is just a Jimny Deluxe, though with a few extra inches in length, 5 more cup holders, comfortable back seat passengers and a couple of coolers can fit in the back but IFS. It's fantastic though :)
Oh and turning circle is fantastic, front wheels got lots of room so you can really turn them and the wheelbase is short. ABS does its job and is not a total killjoy, you can still lightly touch the brake while hitting the gas to go harder in turns. On some roads with no luggage, the rear axle can bounce just a bit, slightly deflating the rear wheels or having a passenger in the back fixes that. When driving alone, I found 2.6 Bar in the front and 2.5 in the back to be just right.
We own a 2017 FWD Vitara S Turbo. There are so far very minor issues like turbo lag mid corner during normal driving, and apple car play connectivity difficulties. The car is surprisingly practical for the size, we’ve managed to squeeze in 3 child seats in the back for a 5 and 4 year old + a rearward facing 10 month old! The vertical storage after removing the flooring in the boot has been great for bringing luggage, beach trolley and esky for a beach holiday.
Best thing about Suzuki's is that they have long model runs so they hold on to their value longer. Look at the Jimny or the Swift. Have had the same basic look for the last 20 years.
The Suzuki Carry and its many derivatives also is following Suzuki's long model runs tradition. Nearly same basic look and silhouette for ever and ever, just more modernised styling each time and improved family of engines rather than making a new one every few year like others. Suzuki still really use the G series engines from way back then until present and possibly still will be to the future for example.
What? 0-60 and 60-100 times? ReDriven doing real world numbers for real world people. Always impressed by the sentiment and care for used car buyers. Cheers
I bought my second hand used 2018 model All grip diesel Vitara in 2022 and couldn't be more happy with any other car! Suzuki diesel?? yes!! Actually it is upgraded FIAT JTD engine, which explains it's low consumption(only 4.5 l/100kms).Though geared with CVT automatic it turns out to work like a charm. Also the adaptive cruise control is a real blessing, at least on the highways! it works only when moving higher than 50 km/h, so not usable in city traffic for automatic stop start on traffic lights.
I own a 2019 turbo since new and it's just clocked over 221 000kms with no issues at all all, only thing that's been replaced is the rear brake pads. Really underated car.
I have a 2019 Suzuki Vitara 1.4 Turbo. Nice car. No CVT transmission. Great car A to B with good acceleration. I’ve done 120,000km with regular logbook servicing. The only thing I’ve changed is one battery from NRMA and a set of tyres.
I picked up my 2016 1.6 petrol Vitara today and excited to hear your review. The front reminds me of a small but much more expensive Land Rover Discovery. Can't wait to get out and enjoy it!
bought one of these when they came out. Punches well above its weight for what it is..Only sold it because i bought a BIG boat and needed a suitable tow vehicle Great car
Great review of an often overlooked car. It’s a shame you didn’t drive the Turbo S as they do have a lot more punch and are actually relatively brisk for this class of car (pretty much way more than competitors). The extra oomph makes them more engaging and starts to fall into warm hatch territory with SUV benefits. The 1.4T might not seem that powerful, but these are LIGHT. Like actually really light. This is while getting full safety rating and being a decent size. So the engine makes the move along at a decent clip. The 1.6 NA is basically a detuned older Swift Sport engine. The 1.4T is the same engine as the current Swift Sport. Every reviewer of the Turbo ever has been very surprised about how good they actually are. They’re a real underrated gem. I had one from 20k kms to 100k kms and it was absolutely brilliant. Nothing stopped working, or broke, or squeaked. The hard plastics are really the only thing you can ping them on, but hard plastics last way better than soft touch. Oh and the Turbo S (especially the earlier ones) looked much better than this big standard one, with better headlights, a different grill, the black alloys etc. Plus you could option them with lots of stuff to make them look at but ‘tougher’. They’re just a super well engineered car that does literally everything well. Like because they are super light, they handle really well etc. Lastly, ok I get the Jimny is the jewel in the brand ATM, but the Vitara came first and they didn’t know the Jimny would be so so popular. So it’s unreasonable to think the Vitara should look like a Jimny. It is likely that they will bring a 5 door Jimny with the Turbo S motor (and hopefully with a manual) in the very near future. Now THAT will be a cracker of a car.
Totally agree. I have a 2017 S-Turbo, Atlantic Turquoise. It's so reliable and economic to run even with 95 RON. Love the DCT as it's so responsive. Keyless entry and the speed limiter are so handy. Great comfy seats for long distance driving. The entertainment system is certainly adequate especially with the tweeters in the front door frames. Apple CarPlay works adequately but would prefer not to use a Data cable to connect. Bluetooth connectivity delivers low volume phone calls. Servicing at my dealer is thorough although the margins on the 'capped' serving seem a little high for the scheduled work covered. I added a few options to enhance the style. Turquoise panelling along the dash, A black nudge bar to give a little more protection when parking in the street and mud flaps all around. The mark up on the mud flaps was disappointingly 'savage' for simple pieces of rubber though. I think most reviewers should leave the 'scratchy plastic' comment out of their assessments as most cars have this type of plastic and not many people are that concerned. The only two minor annoyances is when a passenger leaves the front left seat the seatbelt buckle rattles against the 'C' pillar requiring a quick twist to reset it. The left and right bin dividers never lock so I made them permanent. Otherwise an incredibly decent and reliable, fun to drive car. Highly recommended.
@@indeepeterhopwood8106 yep, sadly here we don’t. Other markets, yes. But it does have a proper auto (not CVT) and is nicely responsive. Still wish there was a manual.
@@indeepeterhopwood8106Don't need with 220nm from 1500rpm, even towing 1200kg. If you want manual for sporty drive then you are looking at wrong vehicle class, try swift sport.
Love your reviews as always, just wanted to add that the 1.4 turbo engine is really good, it feels more powerful than pretty much every competitor. Cheers!
As boring as these are, they are great. So comfy, reliable and have god air con and a decent sound system. I’m about to get one as a company car, and I love em. One on our fleet has 210,000kms on it. No issues ever.
I picked up a 2.4 litre 2010 Suzuki Grand Vitara 2 door recently just as a run around . Great little car which now gets driven everywhere and is a doddle to park because of its size . The one i got had a full service history and in a lot of ways looks similar to the later models .
We have had the 1.4 2WD Turbo for 2 years, and it has been fantastic. 6.2L/100km, actually quick acceleration, quiet, and the best active cruise control for the price point. Cons are the rubbish speakers (replaced with Alpine), and the shiny dash panel which blinds you in sunlight (I painted ours the beige body colour and it looks mint).I’m 6’2 like Adam, and an adult couldn’t sit behind me, so not great for when we have kids. But not the car’s fault, more suited to couples and singles than families. I disagree with the mechanic, life is too short to drive the miserable 1.6 just in case you have an issue in future with the turbo. I’d rather put money into earlier oil changes and a walnut shell intake clean at 80k km. BUY a Turbo Vitara and have a fun, reliable cheap to run car
Own 1.4T and drive 1.6 auto for work occasional. Unless you need a cheap AWD wouldn't touch 1.6 and especially in auto. Touch accelerator and it downshifts until doing 4000rpm. Hates hills. Don't see any reason to owe 2wd 1.6. 1.4T on other hand rarely sees 3000rpm unless pushed and loves windy hill roads.
I live in the Netherlands and this is full of people and cars. I owe a 2019 1400 Turbo allgrip 6 speed automatic. Great midsize car that does everthing i like to do with it. Very fast, comfortable, very good economy, 5.5-6.5 l/100 km. when in sport mode it goes like a cart. There rarely go wrong. Just use additive to the fuel to prevent carbon issues. The 6 speed auto is brilliant as long as you have the hydraulic one and not the later automated gearbox. My Vitara is packed with extra's. So all in all a very practical smaller 4x4 that will last. I drove 120000 km in a Grand Vitara 2400 petrol, great off-road but it ate fuel. And now at 2.45 euro's a litre of here i am happy with my new Vitara.
Why would adding shit to the fuel prevent carbon build up in the inlet manifold/valve stems? That is the fundamental problem with petrol direct injection.
I have been watching your reviews for a couple of weeks and love the way you go through the key points that buyers like myself want to know. Booked my first SUV yesterday after watching your review for Vitara. I always leaned towards Suzuki but never had full trust in its reliability in the UK but your review cleared a lot of my doubts. Keep doing what you're doing. 👍😀👍👍😀😀
I have one of these and it is a joy to drive. And I say that whilst also having a BMW M3 in the garage. Suzuki in the UK at least seems to be that brand that people in general don't really know what to make of it even though they have been here for ages and obviously (perhaps) do have a reputation in the motorbike world. Can't say I've ever met an owner who said the cars were unreliable and posted big bills though.
I just traded my Subaru Forester, for the Vitara 2 days ago. It's much more comfortable to drive, with its elevated driving position. It uses so little petrol, that I though the gauge was broken, which didn't move 150km, into my 200km trip home. At 150km from the dealer, I filled it up, and it still says full, after I drove it a few times now. My Forester used a half a tank, to get to the dealer. The fuel efficiency, and lower yearly taxes in Sweden, is why I bought it. I just realized I can't fit my dogs cage in there, which is the only drawback so far.
i have the 2019 1.0 turbo all grip, 100k km already. No issues, interior is pretty scratchy, spundproofing is pretty weak however in terms of tech, city driving and 4x4 capability (for a family driver) it is amazing. i have acc and blindspot monitoring on a 18k euro car passion spec. in comparison i can get blind spot only on best specced toyota rav, thats 3 times more expensive. great value for money ! i still love it !
Owned 3 Swift Sports in a row over a period of about 10 years and never had an issue with any of them except general maintenance items such as tyres. Traded the 2021 Swift Sport that I most recently had for a used 2021 facelift Vitara as I wanted something a bit bigger and more comfortable. So far it's not disappointed. It's still reasonably fast, almost as economical, just as easy to manoeuvre around a parking lot, and much more comfortable and practical for the daily commute. The only thing I really miss about the Swifts is the handling but it was the rare occasion where i could find myself on a nice twisty and empty road to enjoy it fully anyway.
Sweden here: Have a 2015 Vitara, M16A Port Injection Engien with 150,000km. Runs like a Swiss watch. Still get ,6lt to the 10km. Oil/Filter change every 5000km. Plugs - Trans & Diff Oil Change at 100,000km. Brake replacement at 100,000km. Air and Cabin filter once a year. Only problem is the AC, leak somewhere. Summers here don´t get that hot so I can live without the AC. Unless SUZUKI still have the Port Fuel Injection I will keep this one. Turbos are too hard on engines.....expecialy the smaller displacements.
Great review, I appreciate the humorous delivery! I’ve only just started my search for a decent secondhand car because my 2016 VW Polo (not surprisingly called Polly) just cost me $3,500 to get back on the road after a pretty traumatic breakdown. Apparently the gearbox had ‘completely emulsified’, according to my mechanic. He’s told me I absolutely have to get rid of Polly within 12-18 months, which is devastating because Polly has been my best mate ever since I got her 8 years ago and I’ve always vehemently defended her to my mechanic who’s been trying to get me to move on from VWs altogether. That leaves out the VW T-Cross unfortunately (apparently the pretty aqua colour is not a good enough reason to give VW another chance) and that’s why I started researching the range of small SUVs around at the moment. I find the thought of buying a secondhand car to be absolutely terrifying, so your videos have been very helpful, and surprisingly entertaining. I never even considered a Vitara until I came across this video, which is strange because I briefly owned a Sierra in my youth and it’s still one of my favourite cars (alongside Gemma the Gemini and Polly, of course). Based purely on aesthetics I would have picked the Jimny, but your review convinced me that the Vitara is a much more sensible option. Now to watch your videos for every other small SUV on the market, and decide if the Vitara is the one for me. 😬
Not gonna lie, that Italian sounded pretty epic 👍👌 I know it's not directly comparable but for the money I'd get a slightly older Skoda Octavia Scout personally.
I got one they’re very comfortable to drive easy to maintain had it now for 4 years it’s on a 65 plate 1.6l petrol automatic it’s a little underpowered when fully loaded when going up hill, the wife loves driving it too and it’s stylish they don’t hold there value though so buying second hand is best I was lucky as the previous owner only did 1,600 miles
“I’m not good at maths, but the last time I checked Hungary is in Europe.” The best line in a review ever! 🤣😂🤣 always a great review. I also agree, they should make them look like a larger Jimny.
I can change the H11 bulbs quicker than the pump refills the tank. The regular Philips H11 last forever and are brighter than the stock ones. The Osram Night Breaker are significantly brighter but last me half a year so I only put them in for trips at night.
Fun fact: The 3.2 Litre Suzuki Grand Vitara had an engine which was sourced from GM and made by Holden right here in Australia and so was the Alfa Romeo 3.2 litre V6 You're right, these cars are very underrated and I forget Suzuki even exists sometimes 🤣🤣🤣 Great video 👍
This comment does not in-still any confidence whatsoever🤣, especially when you mention Alfa! Then you have to think what happened to Saab after GM got their hands on it… death is imminent!!!
@@MrWilliam.Stewart Well Jim also said that there was a Renault engine offered as well... The 3.0 and the 3.6 (A variation of this engine) in the Commodores are decent if maintained and I assume that apart from the timing chain, these engines are okay...
@@MartinJones123 Did someone say Renault engine? Have had to replace quite a few Reno engines under warranty, cracked pistons. And this on near new cars. Now just imagine if Suzuki applied themselves, maybe they could build good engines? They should ask somebody at Suzuki to help show Suzuki how to make quality engines. As for Fiat/Alfa/Jeep, as reliable as a politicians promise. Re the GM 3.6L V6, oil consumption issues, oil sludge problems, and all are plagued with cam chain malfunctions. Someone at Suzuki just needs to pick up the phone and call someone at Suzuki for engine advise, not GM, Renault or FCA. Like did they have a board meeting and go, let's buy in some of the cheapest engines available on planet earth to put under the bonnet of our Suzuki badged cars? Or was it simply too much sake one night at a Suzuki board meeting?
90k kms on a new 1.4 turbo bought 5 years ago. Only changed a €40 (€100 with labour) small gasket on the cooling circuit. Oil and filters every 10k. Brake fluid every 25k. AWD fluid and spark plugs at 50k. Brake pads at 60k. Two sets of tires so far, summer and winter. Certainly, cheap and reliable, so far. Love: that it has a very, very capable AWD system on snow packed streets or in many other slippery conditions. Hate: that it has an awful, mechanical, non-self centering steering wheel and I DO NOT recommend buying one without first properly test-driving it.
I have this car in red but and until now I still love it. I have the best variant available in my country. And with the price I paid I think I will never find another car with this kind of value and features. I like the look of this car. I am tired of looking futuristic looking cars which are the designs these days for both Japanese and Korean cars.
Got mine in 2017, 84.000 km on it, no issues whatsoever. Front wheel alignment sucked from the factory (was toe out, wheel wouldn't center after turning, very unstable on a straight line, easy fix though). The 1.6 is fantastic, the 1.4 is slightly more powerful (especially in the very low and very high rpms) and more economical unless you drive it like a maniac. The 1.0 is shit. The facelift models usually have better materials inside and better soundproofing unless you go for the base model. The top of the dashboard makes all the difference, in pre-facelift, it's always hard plastic, later it's soft plastic and it makes all the difference.
Loved this review! Suzuki fan here. I have a 2010 3 Door Grand Vitara as well as a 2016 S Turbo Vitara. Love them both! And yes, I have said the exact same thing, a 5 Door Jimny would be epic!
I'm on my 3rd vitara and I have had no trouble with any of them, a good solid car, and 1 thing you didn't mention was the 12 year anti corrosion warranty which carries over to second hand buyers, or at least that's what we get in the UK.
My old Grand Vitara was the best car I ever owned. Over 300,000 Ks an no issues. When it came time to replace it the new Vitara was no comparison unfortunately.
I feel they really down played the Suzuki Vitara in this advertisment 😢. Very good vehicle for the price. Maintenance is everything, I have over 320,000 miles on my 1999. Still going strong. ❤😊
This Suzuki Vitara comes in the best colour scheme the metalic blue with the black roof very nice we own the Beleno we have no need for an SUV because both our children have left home so we bought the Beleno l do really like the Vitara they look pretty good also l didn't realise they were built in Hungary
I really appreciate your videos, mate. I know that after I buy the car, I won't have to study cheat sheets or watch and read endless reviews for a long time - hopefully. You have to give buying a car your full attention, right? And I don't have my Dad to bring with me. Your content is great. Oh, and I had ths Vitara in mind - no raised centre console. Ba-Bow
The AWD has Sports mode which holds gears in the auto, shifts more traction to rear and gives better throttle response. With 1.4T its brilliant on wind roads, waste of time on 1.6.
Hey AK! Could you likewise do a video on the previous gen Grand Vitara (05-18). I have one myself but wouldn’t say that it’s in good enough condition to be UA-cam worthy but there’s plenty on Facebook forums with cleaner examples. They’re great small SUV’s for off-roading and have dual range (as you’ve noted in other videos). I’d specifically recommend one with 2” lift and A/T (245/70(or 75)/16) tyres which gives the car an overall 3” lift and given current (inflated) prices still gives great value with a good example for well under 15k (closer for 90% of good examples). Beats plenty of bigger 4wd’s/utes and is small and nimble enough to city driving. A perfect 4wd for people starting to explore off-roading (like me)
Great review ate. I think you should put up a review without any editing, just for a laugh ;-) BTW I have a 2008 V6 Grand Vitara that I've taken to Frazer, Rainbow Beach, Noosa North shore. All it's had done to it in the last 7 years (70,000km ish) is petrol, oil changes, belts and rear brake shoes. It's a bloody good car, even if it is a bit boring.
it just does what it is meant to; not fancy, but i couldn't care less about the "soft touch" interiors which wear quickly and get sticky, and the massive screens. Cars are just meant to be driven, no need for all these luxuries - marketing. Just give me reliability.
Had a 2018 1.6 reliable but underpowered had a 1.9ddis before which was a true 4x4 and reliable too but poor mpg 28mpg avg now got a kia sportage turbo 1.6 .
Own lastest turbo, wanted AWD small SUV for towing 300kg boat and 1000kg caravan. No real competition as Kona is lot more expensive and has DSG which isn't best option for towing especially reversing 1000kg caravan up steep hill. No lack of power for towing, plenty power for sensible passing with boat. Also drive auto 1.6 for work, wouldn't recommend it in auto form as it goes straight to 4000rpm with even moderate throttle. Turbo really needs to go over 3000rpm even towing caravan with moderate driving.
Lots of spots for the extra burner phone if you're a drug dealer 😂🤣😂 Great review. I've got a 93 1.6ltr and it's served me well for more than a decade. I've thrashed it. Put it through more than they say they're capable of. Lots of 4wd. It's primo. About to buy a 2.4 petrol 2012 suzuki escudo x-adventure salomon with just over 100k on it.
Bought after having three years a 1.6 handgear, a 1.4T MH automatic. It's a lot faster and pull 1500 kg caravan. Great car, fun to drive, fast enough. With accu heavyer but more stable on high speed than 1.6, and less noice.
Have 1.4 140hp petrol one and since that car weighs only 1100kg it does accelerate really well and feels very responsive. However, on a highway you can hear the noise more than you should, probably mostly due to roof rails that can't be taken off, but make any side wind whistle. No problems at all in 3 years. Drives really nice, very responsive. Major downside is door closing, especially boot doors, that have some middle closed/but not closed all the way position and require a bit of a slam to close all the way, this is the worst I've ever seen and it was the same in other Vitaras in the saloon. Also hard plastic can produce annoying squeeks, especially on a hot day, until things settle in their new balance. Great value for the money though.
My uncle has a 2012 model diesel Vitara (though it could be a Grand Vitara but can't ask him as its a sore spot at the moment) and he's had it in the workshop more than it's been on the road in the last 3ish years with it being undriveable for the last 7 months due to electrical gremlins they local guys can't diagnose or fix (granted it has over 200k kms on the clock) . Though it was a brilliant car to be in when it was working to be completely fair to it. Good too see the Vitara getting the love it deserves with this review and due to the aforementioned statement it doesn't surprise me that you guys don't recommend the diesel engines. Be funny to see you do the safety features overview in pig latin or like a price check at somewhere like Woolies lol 😆. If you guys want I can ask our local tyre guy if he'd give you his top 5 best and worst tyre brands as he's been in the game 50+ years now. Any chance that you guys will be able to review MU-X in a future video as a few people we know are interested in buy them. Good work guys as always hope you all have a good weekend and look forward to next week's videos as well and keep up the good work too👍.
Yes thats the grand vitara with the infamous renault f9q motor. if not looked after and serviced in time can be a real issue. Turbo's start to die at 150,000kms. The DPF is a pile of turd, and if you only city drive them look out. The EGR's have a plastic cog that the teeth deteriate and no longer engage. Timing belt must be changed on time, which is 75,000kms or it could be catastrophic. I like mine, good economy I have eliminated some of the above issue's. get good economy even towing a work trailer daily and use it offroad.
Holy shit...For that price and age, its amazing that Suzuki sold something still without a centre armrest and still taking up front storage space with a manual handbrake. Go for a same age Nissan Qashqai J11 and it'll be much roomier, better looking and better to drive for around the same price.
Good stuff! You havent done one for 2018-2019 Honda CRV? This model has been popular and does check a lot of boxes for a medium sized family SUV. Will wait to see one from your team.. Cheers
I have a 2016 S turbo, two annoying things I’ve noticed are the fuel range is complete bullshit and sometimes my phone won’t be recognised/won’t charge meaning I can’t use carplay and I have to wait 5 or so minutes for the infotainment to crash and restart itself before I can connect to it.
The Vitara has totally gone soft, it's a SUV not a 4wd like the Jimny. Never will ever again sadly considering the original shape was a fantastic 4wd in its day
As a Hungarian I can confirm that we are the manufacturers of the Suzuki cars, the Vitara is the best selling car in my country, the technology behind the turbo engine is Japanise, Suzuki is one of the most reliable brands here along with the other Japanise brands. The country is full of 15-30 (yes, 30) year old Suzukis and they are still rolling. I just bought a new Vitara, it's a very nice car.
And what about the Suzuki S-Cross? I think that the S-Cross is a very underrated car. Yes it costs a bit more, but i can't decide if it is worth the money?
@@adnanmujkic we bought a 2021 S Cross SX4 in Türkiye and drive with pleasure. At the last moment, we switched from Vitara to this and we are very happy with our choice.
It really is strong, durable, economic and performance car. It really worths the money and I definitely recommend it.
Scross has better built..
@@MISComputerNETp
Is it better to buy a 1.4 older version or 1.0 boosterjet ?
My wife had a first gen Vitara in the early 2000s, not only was it a a family car but she used it daily as a local parcel courier. It never missed a beat in 11 years, it sailed through every annual MOT test, parts replaced in 11 years : 4 new tyres, 1 battery, set of front brake pads. Oil filter, air filter, gallon of oil. That's it, total cost in 11 years. We also ran a 1st gen Swift at the same time, super reliable. I lost my wife in 2015 and now run a Suzuki Celerio , again after 5 years cheap as chips to run.
My friends have had Suzuki Forsas, Swifts, Samurais and I have a 2013 Grand Vitara and they've all been solid reliable vehicles. Those little Samurais could really go places offroad. My GV was made in Japan and feels very well put together. It's rock solid without any squeaks, rattles or flex, the simple controls have a nice quality tactile feel, climate control works well, the doors close with a very nice "thunk" and It drives nice too.
I bought one of these in 2020, great little SUV.
I got the All Grip 1.4 turbo, it does mud snow and sand with no effort or chains required but avoid rocky roads, not enough clearance.
Zero mechanical issues and I flog it. Get 8.2 per 100 around city and 6.2 driving down to Victoria with the active cruise control which works amazingly.
After researching a lot of cars, I am leaning to the suzuki for one main reason, it does not come with CVT. I think that in itself is a winner.
That's my only reason.......
Not all cvt's are bad the ones on turbo civic's are not offending anybody
I like my Vitara; it's absolutely fast and light, with nice steady performance for 6 years now. Love from China!
My 2017 1.4 turbo is averaging 6.1 litres per 100km, 96000km still drives like new, only replaced tyres and battery, servicing done on or before time and only use full synthetic oil.
The European version is a rational choice, the car looks good, it's basically bulletproof and foolproof, and the maintenance is cheap. My mother (71 years old) has one (naturally aspirated, manual, 1.6 four cyl) and that car takes a beating. When I first drove that car I was surprised how good the manual transmission was.
One of the most underrated compact SUV typical Japanese with Toyota like longevity.The one to get is 1.4 boostajet eng variant go like rockets
late to the show but i bought a 2017 S-Turbo in Jan 2022 . i use it for work as a service technician and put around 5000Kms on it each month. currently just ticked over 200,000Kms on the clock and just purs along. Recently did a week long camping trip through NSW. drove home from work on the Friday unloaded the work gear. loaded the camping gear filled the tank and drove 3000Kms. the last stint was from Lithgow to Brisbane in one go. in the last 150,000Kms the S-Turbo has 6.4L/100kms dhowing on the trip computer. I also run it 90% of the time on Costco E10 94 octane. never an issue. the only expense is regular 10K servicing and rear wheel bearings that got noisy.. My previous car was a 2006 Swift that i also used for work and put 200,000Kms on it . SUZUKI are severly underated!!
Just put a deposit on a 2017 AWD turbo. It was this review that tipped us over the edge. Thanks ReDriven!
I Agree 100% this should have been a 'bigger Jimny' like the Grand Vitara. They would have sold heaps if they stuck to the true 4x4 heritage. Great review as always Team.
I've got a 2005 3 Door one and it is just a Jimny Deluxe, though with a few extra inches in length, 5 more cup holders, comfortable back seat passengers and a couple of coolers can fit in the back but IFS. It's fantastic though :)
Oh and turning circle is fantastic, front wheels got lots of room so you can really turn them and the wheelbase is short. ABS does its job and is not a total killjoy, you can still lightly touch the brake while hitting the gas to go harder in turns.
On some roads with no luggage, the rear axle can bounce just a bit, slightly deflating the rear wheels or having a passenger in the back fixes that. When driving alone, I found 2.6 Bar in the front and 2.5 in the back to be just right.
We own a 2017 FWD Vitara S Turbo. There are so far very minor issues like turbo lag mid corner during normal driving, and apple car play connectivity difficulties.
The car is surprisingly practical for the size, we’ve managed to squeeze in 3 child seats in the back for a 5 and 4 year old + a rearward facing 10 month old! The vertical storage after removing the flooring in the boot has been great for bringing luggage, beach trolley and esky for a beach holiday.
Best thing about Suzuki's is that they have long model runs so they hold on to their value longer. Look at the Jimny or the Swift. Have had the same basic look for the last 20 years.
The Suzuki Carry and its many derivatives also is following Suzuki's long model runs tradition. Nearly same basic look and silhouette for ever and ever, just more modernised styling each time and improved family of engines rather than making a new one every few year like others. Suzuki still really use the G series engines from way back then until present and possibly still will be to the future for example.
What? 0-60 and 60-100 times? ReDriven doing real world numbers for real world people. Always impressed by the sentiment and care for used car buyers. Cheers
It's almost verging on being professional mate! - AK
And if you really want 0-100 you can just add them together.
We bought one yesterday we are happy with it 🎉
I own a 2016 allgrip diesel, so satisfied with car performance, it's amazing on dirt road as well with proper tyres of course.
I bought my second hand used 2018 model All grip diesel Vitara in 2022 and couldn't be more happy with any other car! Suzuki diesel?? yes!! Actually it is upgraded FIAT JTD engine, which explains it's low consumption(only 4.5 l/100kms).Though geared with CVT automatic it turns out to work like a charm. Also the adaptive cruise control is a real blessing, at least on the highways! it works only when moving higher than 50 km/h, so not usable in city traffic for automatic stop start on traffic lights.
I own a 2019 turbo since new and it's just clocked over 221 000kms with no issues at all all, only thing that's been replaced is the rear brake pads.
Really underated car.
You mean under appreciated I think
Love my 2015 1.6 petrol Vitara 4WD.
A bit sluggish, but I’m happy without the turbo!
easy to step inside, cheap and it takes me where I need to go 😊
I have a 2019 Suzuki Vitara 1.4 Turbo. Nice car. No CVT transmission. Great car A to B with good acceleration. I’ve done 120,000km with regular logbook servicing. The only thing I’ve changed is one battery from NRMA and a set of tyres.
I picked up my 2016 1.6 petrol Vitara today and excited to hear your review. The front reminds me of a small but much more expensive Land Rover Discovery. Can't wait to get out and enjoy it!
bought one of these when they came out. Punches well above its weight for what it is..Only sold it because i bought a BIG boat and needed a suitable tow vehicle Great car
Great review of an often overlooked car. It’s a shame you didn’t drive the Turbo S as they do have a lot more punch and are actually relatively brisk for this class of car (pretty much way more than competitors). The extra oomph makes them more engaging and starts to fall into warm hatch territory with SUV benefits. The 1.4T might not seem that powerful, but these are LIGHT. Like actually really light. This is while getting full safety rating and being a decent size. So the engine makes the move along at a decent clip. The 1.6 NA is basically a detuned older Swift Sport engine. The 1.4T is the same engine as the current Swift Sport. Every reviewer of the Turbo ever has been very surprised about how good they actually are. They’re a real underrated gem. I had one from 20k kms to 100k kms and it was absolutely brilliant. Nothing stopped working, or broke, or squeaked. The hard plastics are really the only thing you can ping them on, but hard plastics last way better than soft touch. Oh and the Turbo S (especially the earlier ones) looked much better than this big standard one, with better headlights, a different grill, the black alloys etc. Plus you could option them with lots of stuff to make them look at but ‘tougher’. They’re just a super well engineered car that does literally everything well. Like because they are super light, they handle really well etc. Lastly, ok I get the Jimny is the jewel in the brand ATM, but the Vitara came first and they didn’t know the Jimny would be so so popular. So it’s unreasonable to think the Vitara should look like a Jimny. It is likely that they will bring a 5 door Jimny with the Turbo S motor (and hopefully with a manual) in the very near future. Now THAT will be a cracker of a car.
Totally agree. I have a 2017 S-Turbo, Atlantic Turquoise. It's so reliable and economic to run even with 95 RON. Love the DCT as it's so responsive. Keyless entry and the speed limiter are so handy. Great comfy seats for long distance driving. The entertainment system is certainly adequate especially with the tweeters in the front door frames. Apple CarPlay works adequately but would prefer not to use a Data cable to connect. Bluetooth connectivity delivers low volume phone calls. Servicing at my dealer is thorough although the margins on the 'capped' serving seem a little high for the scheduled work covered. I added a few options to enhance the style. Turquoise panelling along the dash, A black nudge bar to give a little more protection when parking in the street and mud flaps all around. The mark up on the mud flaps was disappointingly 'savage' for simple pieces of rubber though. I think most reviewers should leave the 'scratchy plastic' comment out of their assessments as most cars have this type of plastic and not many people are that concerned. The only two minor annoyances is when a passenger leaves the front left seat the seatbelt buckle rattles against the 'C' pillar requiring a quick twist to reset it. The left and right bin dividers never lock so I made them permanent. Otherwise an incredibly decent and reliable, fun to drive car. Highly recommended.
Sold!
Imagine buying a 1.4T because you like a bit of spirited driving only to find out you can’t get the manual transmission
@@indeepeterhopwood8106 yep, sadly here we don’t. Other markets, yes. But it does have a proper auto (not CVT) and is nicely responsive. Still wish there was a manual.
@@indeepeterhopwood8106Don't need with 220nm from 1500rpm, even towing 1200kg. If you want manual for sporty drive then you are looking at wrong vehicle class, try swift sport.
Love your reviews as always, just wanted to add that the 1.4 turbo engine is really good, it feels more powerful than pretty much every competitor. Cheers!
As boring as these are, they are great. So comfy, reliable and have god air con and a decent sound system. I’m about to get one as a company car, and I love em. One on our fleet has 210,000kms on it. No issues ever.
I picked up a 2.4 litre 2010 Suzuki Grand Vitara 2 door recently just as a run around . Great little car which now gets driven everywhere and is a doddle to park because of its size . The one i got had a full service history and in a lot of ways looks similar to the later models .
Hi from the UK. I have the 1.4 turbo Vitara and love it. It is economical and really quiet on the motorway. Thanks for the review.
5 years and my vitara is solid and reliable. Love it!
We have had the 1.4 2WD Turbo for 2 years, and it has been fantastic. 6.2L/100km, actually quick acceleration, quiet, and the best active cruise control for the price point. Cons are the rubbish speakers (replaced with Alpine), and the shiny dash panel which blinds you in sunlight (I painted ours the beige body colour and it looks mint).I’m 6’2 like Adam, and an adult couldn’t sit behind me, so not great for when we have kids. But not the car’s fault, more suited to couples and singles than families. I disagree with the mechanic, life is too short to drive the miserable 1.6 just in case you have an issue in future with the turbo. I’d rather put money into earlier oil changes and a walnut shell intake clean at 80k km. BUY a Turbo Vitara and have a fun, reliable cheap to run car
Own 1.4T and drive 1.6 auto for work occasional. Unless you need a cheap AWD wouldn't touch 1.6 and especially in auto. Touch accelerator and it downshifts until doing 4000rpm. Hates hills.
Don't see any reason to owe 2wd 1.6.
1.4T on other hand rarely sees 3000rpm unless pushed and loves windy hill roads.
I live in the Netherlands and this is full of people and cars. I owe a 2019 1400 Turbo allgrip 6 speed automatic. Great midsize car that does everthing i like to do with it. Very fast, comfortable, very good economy, 5.5-6.5 l/100 km. when in sport mode it goes like a cart. There rarely go wrong. Just use additive to the fuel to prevent carbon issues. The 6 speed auto is brilliant as long as you have the hydraulic one and not the later automated gearbox. My Vitara is packed with extra's. So all in all a very practical smaller 4x4 that will last. I drove 120000 km in a Grand Vitara 2400 petrol, great off-road but it ate fuel. And now at 2.45 euro's a litre of here i am happy with my new Vitara.
Why would adding shit to the fuel prevent carbon build up in the inlet manifold/valve stems? That is the fundamental problem with petrol direct injection.
@@68404 No it just keeps all clean, its called a solution to an item. The ethanol shit does not help too. Nothing wrong with direct injection.
I have been watching your reviews for a couple of weeks and love the way you go through the key points that buyers like myself want to know. Booked my first SUV yesterday after watching your review for Vitara. I always leaned towards Suzuki but never had full trust in its reliability in the UK but your review cleared a lot of my doubts. Keep doing what you're doing. 👍😀👍👍😀😀
Thank you!
If you have doubts about suzuki reliability, pls check uk's What car ? Reliability surveys and be surprised that it is a top rated brand.
I have one of these and it is a joy to drive. And I say that whilst also having a BMW M3 in the garage. Suzuki in the UK at least seems to be that brand that people in general don't really know what to make of it even though they have been here for ages and obviously (perhaps) do have a reputation in the motorbike world. Can't say I've ever met an owner who said the cars were unreliable and posted big bills though.
I just traded my Subaru Forester, for the Vitara 2 days ago. It's much more comfortable to drive, with its elevated driving position. It uses so little petrol, that I though the gauge was broken, which didn't move 150km, into my 200km trip home. At 150km from the dealer, I filled it up, and it still says full, after I drove it a few times now. My Forester used a half a tank, to get to the dealer. The fuel efficiency, and lower yearly taxes in Sweden, is why I bought it. I just realized I can't fit my dogs cage in there, which is the only drawback so far.
i have the 2019 1.0 turbo all grip, 100k km already. No issues, interior is pretty scratchy, spundproofing is pretty weak however in terms of tech, city driving and 4x4 capability (for a family driver) it is amazing. i have acc and blindspot monitoring on a 18k euro car passion spec. in comparison i can get blind spot only on best specced toyota rav, thats 3 times more expensive.
great value for money ! i still love it !
Owned 3 Swift Sports in a row over a period of about 10 years and never had an issue with any of them except general maintenance items such as tyres.
Traded the 2021 Swift Sport that I most recently had for a used 2021 facelift Vitara as I wanted something a bit bigger and more comfortable. So far it's not disappointed. It's still reasonably fast, almost as economical, just as easy to manoeuvre around a parking lot, and much more comfortable and practical for the daily commute. The only thing I really miss about the Swifts is the handling but it was the rare occasion where i could find myself on a nice twisty and empty road to enjoy it fully anyway.
I just bought one brand new literally done 100km. I'm very happy with it thus far.
Been driving mine for 3yrs now...on and off road. Awesome fuel consumption
@@vvr881 may I ask which engine ? my fuel consumption is quite high atm but I'm assuming this may be down to being a brand new engine
Sweden here:
Have a 2015 Vitara, M16A Port Injection Engien with 150,000km. Runs like a Swiss watch.
Still get ,6lt to the 10km. Oil/Filter change every 5000km.
Plugs - Trans & Diff Oil Change at 100,000km.
Brake replacement at 100,000km.
Air and Cabin filter once a year.
Only problem is the AC, leak somewhere. Summers here don´t get that hot so I can live without the AC.
Unless SUZUKI still have the Port Fuel Injection I will keep this one.
Turbos are too hard on engines.....expecialy the smaller displacements.
Love my 4wd 1.4 petrol turbo one! Id buy another one tomorrow!
Great review, I appreciate the humorous delivery! I’ve only just started my search for a decent secondhand car because my 2016 VW Polo (not surprisingly called Polly) just cost me $3,500 to get back on the road after a pretty traumatic breakdown. Apparently the gearbox had ‘completely emulsified’, according to my mechanic. He’s told me I absolutely have to get rid of Polly within 12-18 months, which is devastating because Polly has been my best mate ever since I got her 8 years ago and I’ve always vehemently defended her to my mechanic who’s been trying to get me to move on from VWs altogether. That leaves out the VW T-Cross unfortunately (apparently the pretty aqua colour is not a good enough reason to give VW another chance) and that’s why I started researching the range of small SUVs around at the moment. I find the thought of buying a secondhand car to be absolutely terrifying, so your videos have been very helpful, and surprisingly entertaining. I never even considered a Vitara until I came across this video, which is strange because I briefly owned a Sierra in my youth and it’s still one of my favourite cars (alongside Gemma the Gemini and Polly, of course). Based purely on aesthetics I would have picked the Jimny, but your review convinced me that the Vitara is a much more sensible option. Now to watch your videos for every other small SUV on the market, and decide if the Vitara is the one for me. 😬
Not gonna lie, that Italian sounded pretty epic 👍👌 I know it's not directly comparable but for the money I'd get a slightly older Skoda Octavia Scout personally.
I got one they’re very comfortable to drive easy to maintain had it now for 4 years it’s on a 65 plate 1.6l petrol automatic it’s a little underpowered when fully loaded when going up hill, the wife loves driving it too and it’s stylish they don’t hold there value though so buying second hand is best I was lucky as the previous owner only did 1,600 miles
“I’m not good at maths, but the last time I checked Hungary is in Europe.” The best line in a review ever! 🤣😂🤣 always a great review. I also agree, they should make them look like a larger Jimny.
Cheers Jay!
i think i saw an ad somewhere that a 5 door jimny is coming
I thought he said maps, not maths, which makes more sense.
I bought the previous model thou V6 2.7 vitara, i cant complain.
I can change the H11 bulbs quicker than the pump refills the tank. The regular Philips H11 last forever and are brighter than the stock ones. The Osram Night Breaker are significantly brighter but last me half a year so I only put them in for trips at night.
The 4wd is actually rather capable. The 1.4 turbo engine is punchy, have it both in my swift and in my vitara. The 6 speed auto is really good.
Fun fact: The 3.2 Litre Suzuki Grand Vitara had an engine which was sourced from GM and made by Holden right here in Australia and so was the Alfa Romeo 3.2 litre V6
You're right, these cars are very underrated and I forget Suzuki even exists sometimes 🤣🤣🤣
Great video 👍
Oh no, I don't want a GM engine in my Japanese car, nooooooo I want a Japanese engine!
This comment does not in-still any confidence whatsoever🤣, especially when you mention Alfa! Then you have to think what happened to Saab after GM got their hands on it… death is imminent!!!
@@lukeclifton4392 GM only had a stake in Suzuki and they don't use this V6 anymore since Holden and Australian manufacturing is dead...
@@MrWilliam.Stewart Well Jim also said that there was a Renault engine offered as well... The 3.0 and the 3.6 (A variation of this engine) in the Commodores are decent if maintained and I assume that apart from the timing chain, these engines are okay...
@@MartinJones123 Did someone say Renault engine? Have had to replace quite a few Reno engines under warranty, cracked pistons. And this on near new cars. Now just imagine if Suzuki applied themselves, maybe they could build good engines? They should ask somebody at Suzuki to help show Suzuki how to make quality engines. As for Fiat/Alfa/Jeep, as reliable as a politicians promise.
Re the GM 3.6L V6, oil consumption issues, oil sludge problems, and all are plagued with cam chain malfunctions.
Someone at Suzuki just needs to pick up the phone and call someone at Suzuki for engine advise, not GM, Renault or FCA.
Like did they have a board meeting and go, let's buy in some of the cheapest engines available on planet earth to put under the bonnet of our Suzuki badged cars?
Or was it simply too much sake one night at a Suzuki board meeting?
90k kms on a new 1.4 turbo bought 5 years ago. Only changed a €40 (€100 with labour) small gasket on the cooling circuit. Oil and filters every 10k. Brake fluid every 25k. AWD fluid and spark plugs at 50k. Brake pads at 60k. Two sets of tires so far, summer and winter. Certainly, cheap and reliable, so far.
Love: that it has a very, very capable AWD system on snow packed streets or in many other slippery conditions.
Hate: that it has an awful, mechanical, non-self centering steering wheel and I DO NOT recommend buying one without first properly test-driving it.
I have this car in red but and until now I still love it. I have the best variant available in my country. And with the price I paid I think I will never find another car with this kind of value and features. I like the look of this car. I am tired of looking futuristic looking cars which are the designs these days for both Japanese and Korean cars.
Got mine in 2017, 84.000 km on it, no issues whatsoever. Front wheel alignment sucked from the factory (was toe out, wheel wouldn't center after turning, very unstable on a straight line, easy fix though).
The 1.6 is fantastic, the 1.4 is slightly more powerful (especially in the very low and very high rpms) and more economical unless you drive it like a maniac. The 1.0 is shit.
The facelift models usually have better materials inside and better soundproofing unless you go for the base model. The top of the dashboard makes all the difference, in pre-facelift, it's always hard plastic, later it's soft plastic and it makes all the difference.
Loved this review! Suzuki fan here. I have a 2010 3 Door Grand Vitara as well as a 2016 S Turbo Vitara. Love them both! And yes, I have said the exact same thing, a 5 Door Jimny would be epic!
I'm on my 3rd vitara and I have had no trouble with any of them, a good solid car, and 1 thing you didn't mention was the 12 year anti corrosion warranty which carries over to second hand buyers, or at least that's what we get in the UK.
My old Grand Vitara was the best car I ever owned. Over 300,000 Ks an no issues. When it came time to replace it the new Vitara was no comparison unfortunately.
Do Skoda Yeti next! 1.8 petrol 134hp 4x4 is a ripper! Fun, great offroad, loads of space and especially, NOT a boring looking car!
I love my Suzuki vitara RT-2019, light, fast and reliable
I feel they really down played the Suzuki Vitara in this advertisment 😢. Very good vehicle for the price. Maintenance is everything, I have over 320,000 miles on my 1999. Still going strong. ❤😊
Would love a review on an older Vitara
Very good show!! From the U.K. and been looking at this car, nothing to love but it looks like good value. Your 360 degree analysis is excellent.
This Suzuki Vitara comes in the best colour scheme the metalic blue with the black roof very nice we own the Beleno we have no need for an SUV because both our children have left home so we bought the Beleno l do really like the Vitara they look pretty good also l didn't realise they were built in Hungary
I own one, the 2019 version GLX. no complains so far (3 years on) maybe after 5-6 yearssell it off to get the Jimny
Too funny. 'Im not good at maths but the last time I checked Hungary is in Europe'
This made me laugh so much!
I really appreciate your videos, mate. I know that after I buy the car, I won't have to study cheat sheets or watch and read endless reviews for a long time - hopefully. You have to give buying a car your full attention, right? And I don't have my Dad to bring with me. Your content is great.
Oh, and I had ths Vitara in mind - no raised centre console. Ba-Bow
Your reviews are so good. Your the 🐐 bro. Keep up the great work. 💪🏼
this man is good at this!
The AWD has Sports mode which holds gears in the auto, shifts more traction to rear and gives better throttle response. With 1.4T its brilliant on wind roads, waste of time on 1.6.
Hey AK! Could you likewise do a video on the previous gen Grand Vitara (05-18). I have one myself but wouldn’t say that it’s in good enough condition to be UA-cam worthy but there’s plenty on Facebook forums with cleaner examples. They’re great small SUV’s for off-roading and have dual range (as you’ve noted in other videos).
I’d specifically recommend one with 2” lift and A/T (245/70(or 75)/16) tyres which gives the car an overall 3” lift and given current (inflated) prices still gives great value with a good example for well under 15k (closer for 90% of good examples).
Beats plenty of bigger 4wd’s/utes and is small and nimble enough to city driving. A perfect 4wd for people starting to explore off-roading (like me)
Great review ate. I think you should put up a review without any editing, just for a laugh ;-)
BTW I have a 2008 V6 Grand Vitara that I've taken to Frazer, Rainbow Beach, Noosa North shore. All it's had done to it in the last 7 years (70,000km ish) is petrol, oil changes, belts and rear brake shoes. It's a bloody good car, even if it is a bit boring.
Grand Vitara review please.
Needs high/low range to qualify as an Off road Suzuki.
12.8L per hundred, I'd be pissed about those numbers.
it just does what it is meant to; not fancy, but i couldn't care less about the "soft touch" interiors which wear quickly and get sticky, and the massive screens. Cars are just meant to be driven, no need for all these luxuries - marketing. Just give me reliability.
A front wheel drive Vitara, is like a pizza without cheese. A dance without music. A wee without a fart.
Had a 2018 1.6 reliable but underpowered had a 1.9ddis before which was a true 4x4 and reliable too but poor mpg 28mpg avg now got a kia sportage turbo 1.6 .
Own lastest turbo, wanted AWD small SUV for towing 300kg boat and 1000kg caravan. No real competition as Kona is lot more expensive and has DSG which isn't best option for towing especially reversing 1000kg caravan up steep hill. No lack of power for towing, plenty power for sensible passing with boat. Also drive auto 1.6 for work, wouldn't recommend it in auto form as it goes straight to 4000rpm with even moderate throttle. Turbo really needs to go over 3000rpm even towing caravan with moderate driving.
Lots of spots for the extra burner phone if you're a drug dealer 😂🤣😂 Great review. I've got a 93 1.6ltr and it's served me well for more than a decade. I've thrashed it. Put it through more than they say they're capable of. Lots of 4wd. It's primo. About to buy a 2.4 petrol 2012 suzuki escudo x-adventure salomon with just over 100k on it.
Thank you, i just bought my a Suzuki Vitara High Executive 😀
I have a 2015 one diesel pretty good on fuel economy a full tank 65euros can get you 800km the only negative is if it's loaded ot doesn't feel fast
Bought after having three years a 1.6 handgear, a 1.4T MH automatic. It's a lot faster and pull 1500 kg caravan. Great car, fun to drive, fast enough. With accu heavyer but more stable on high speed than 1.6, and less noice.
The Suzuki Sierra is a fabulous vehicle, often wondered about Vitara. I have seen one off road going alright.
Yup. I would absolutely buy a Vitara!
You are right , they could have design different from other Cross overs. Maybe they could have design more boxy or similar to the Jimny
Have 1.4 140hp petrol one and since that car weighs only 1100kg it does accelerate really well and feels very responsive. However, on a highway you can hear the noise more than you should, probably mostly due to roof rails that can't be taken off, but make any side wind whistle. No problems at all in 3 years. Drives really nice, very responsive. Major downside is door closing, especially boot doors, that have some middle closed/but not closed all the way position and require a bit of a slam to close all the way, this is the worst I've ever seen and it was the same in other Vitaras in the saloon. Also hard plastic can produce annoying squeeks, especially on a hot day, until things settle in their new balance. Great value for the money though.
I have a Chinese version made by Changan-Suzuki, exactly the same problem ....
My uncle has a 2012 model diesel Vitara (though it could be a Grand Vitara but can't ask him as its a sore spot at the moment) and he's had it in the workshop more than it's been on the road in the last 3ish years with it being undriveable for the last 7 months due to electrical gremlins they local guys can't diagnose or fix (granted it has over 200k kms on the clock) . Though it was a brilliant car to be in when it was working to be completely fair to it.
Good too see the Vitara getting the love it deserves with this review and due to the aforementioned statement it doesn't surprise me that you guys don't recommend the diesel engines.
Be funny to see you do the safety features overview in pig latin or like a price check at somewhere like Woolies lol 😆.
If you guys want I can ask our local tyre guy if he'd give you his top 5 best and worst tyre brands as he's been in the game 50+ years now.
Any chance that you guys will be able to review MU-X in a future video as a few people we know are interested in buy them.
Good work guys as always hope you all have a good weekend and look forward to next week's videos as well and keep up the good work too👍.
Yes thats the grand vitara with the infamous renault f9q motor.
if not looked after and serviced in time can be a real issue.
Turbo's start to die at 150,000kms.
The DPF is a pile of turd, and if you only city drive them look out. The EGR's have a plastic cog that the teeth deteriate and no longer engage. Timing belt must be changed on time, which is 75,000kms or it could be catastrophic.
I like mine, good economy I have eliminated some of the above issue's. get good economy even towing a work trailer daily and use it offroad.
Every workshop needs a 'Use ya brain" poster with big Al watching in the background.
Your reviews are great thanks for the video.
Good review and adding overseas pricing is a bonus. (just as a comparison)
Was gonna buy this before settled on a new Cerato Sport in early 2020
Holy shit...For that price and age, its amazing that Suzuki sold something still without a centre armrest and still taking up front storage space with a manual handbrake. Go for a same age Nissan Qashqai J11 and it'll be much roomier, better looking and better to drive for around the same price.
And CVT... Jatco? Yeah nah
The Vitara would have been so much better if they offered a 2 door version like it's predecessor.
They used to make the fantastic Kizashi sedan too.
I own a 2016 no issues just standard servicing
GREAT video mate.
Good stuff!
You havent done one for 2018-2019 Honda CRV?
This model has been popular and does check a lot of boxes for a medium sized family SUV.
Will wait to see one from your team..
Cheers
I have a 2016 S turbo, two annoying things I’ve noticed are the fuel range is complete bullshit and sometimes my phone won’t be recognised/won’t charge meaning I can’t use carplay and I have to wait 5 or so minutes for the infotainment to crash and restart itself before I can connect to it.
Do you have fuel economy numbers, eg, litres per 100 kms ?
Like the review and Vitara.. Just don't understand why Suzuki won't add centre console and rear armrest as standard?
Good review. Thank you for that.
And this is my new car next year
If you base this brand on there motorcycles you can be sure of very high quality build.
It Has a Toyota twin called Urban Cruise, In South Africa
Cruiser*
What would Jim recommend for carbon build up with direct injection engines?
Hang on, an open differential front wheel drive one wheel spinning Vitara? Eh? I've got a Yaris for that.
The Vitara has totally gone soft, it's a SUV not a 4wd like the Jimny. Never will ever again sadly considering the original shape was a fantastic 4wd in its day
My 2019 Vitara 1.4T Allgrip tows a loaded trailer over wet field just as well as Grand Vitara & Jimny I had previously. Would buy again no worries.
@@maxlevett7474 same,my vitara s is great off roading does 90% what the jimny does
@@hyena-chase2176 90%? Of a jimny? Lol k