Suzuki Vitara mild-hybrid 4×4 review

In another effort to remain relevant in an ultra-competitive segment, the Suzuki Vitara has adopted a mild-hybrid powertrain.

Whereas it was once almost essential for a model range to include a diesel engine, priorities have now changed, and it is becoming unusual to find a car without some form of electrified version.

To establish whether this system delivers genuine benefits to the familiar Japanese SUV, we put it to the test in the version that, curiously, places the least emphasis on economy and emissions reduction: the four-wheel-drive model.

Still unmistakably Suzuki Vitara

Launched in 2015 and already subjected to two facelifts, very little has really changed on the Suzuki Vitara, with the latest update's main addition being LED headlights.

Despite having been on sale for five years, the Japanese SUV's relatively understated styling prevents it from looking dated, although it is unlikely to claim the title of “the B-SUV that turns the most heads”.

Personally, I appreciate this more discreet character, because a model's inherent qualities matter more to me than the amount of attention I can attract while driving it - although, apparently, not everyone sees it that way…

Room for improvement…

As with the exterior, the Vitara's cabin remains much the same, with restraint continuing to define its design.

Every control is positioned where you would expect it to be, with one exception: the trip computer control - a stalk in the instrument panel that does nothing to make navigating the (very) comprehensive menus easier.

The infotainment system could also do with an upgrade. Its dated graphics and limited range of functions are offset by its swift responses to inputs.

In terms of quality, the Suzuki Vitara makes no attempt to conceal two things: it is a B-SUV, and it is Japanese. The first is apparent in the widespread use of hard materials, most of which are not especially pleasant, even when compared with rival models.

The second is evident in the build quality. Although the materials are firm, they do not complain when travelling over uneven surfaces, confirming that the Japanese reputation is well deserved.

…but more than adequate

Although it does not offer the cabin versatility of alternatives such as the Renault Captur or Volkswagen T-Cross, the Suzuki Vitara is by no means embarrassing in terms of passenger space.

With dimensions that place it at the “heart” of the segment, it can comfortably carry four adults and their luggage.

At 375 litres, the boot is not class-leading compared with some of the segment's newest offerings, but it is more than sufficient, particularly because of the regular shape of the load area.

Electrification: what is it for?

This brings us to the “million-euro question”: what does the Vitara gain from electrification?

At first glance, it might seem that it actually… loses out. After all, replacing the previous K14C engine with the revised K14D resulted in a loss of 11 hp, leaving output at 129 hp. Torque, meanwhile, increased by 15 Nm, rising to 235 Nm.

However, the 48 V mild-hybrid system makes up for this reduction by incorporating a 10 kW (14 hp) electric motor-generator, which provides an instant “injection” of torque.

Furthermore, at least on paper, the system promises lower fuel consumption and emissions, with Suzuki quoting 141 g/km of emissions and 6.2 l/100 km for this 4×4 version.

Can you notice it?

If you are wondering whether you will feel the mild-hybrid system working, the answer is simple: it is very unlikely.

Naturally smooth, it chiefly makes its presence felt through the Stop-Start system, which restarts more quickly and intervenes sooner.

Otherwise, the mild-hybrid system operates imperceptibly, while the Boosterjet engine retains the qualities for which it was already known: linear power delivery, progressive response and pleasing mid-range liveliness, without suffering the typical “shortness of breath” experienced by smaller engines below 2,000 rpm.

Helping matters is a well-ratioed six-speed manual gearbox that is not excessively tall-geared despite its efficiency focus. It has a satisfyingly mechanical, reasonably precise shift action, with only its slightly long throw open to criticism.

Finally, fuel consumption is the area in which the mild-hybrid system is most noticeable. Even during predominantly suburban use, on occasionally congested dual carriageways, averages ranged from 5.1 to 5.6 l/100 km, rising only to 6.5 l/100 km in urban chaos.

It does not disappoint dynamically

Just as the engine does not disappoint, neither does the chassis and suspension package.

The suspension strikes a good balance between comfort and handling, while the accurate, direct steering allows the Vitara to be placed into bends confidently and with ease.

This test car also featured the Allgrip four-wheel-drive system, whose strengths are revealed more clearly away from the road than on it.

With four driving modes - Sport, Auto, Snow and one that even allows the centre differential to be locked - it enables the Vitara to travel considerably farther than most rivals, with the Dacia Duster being the exception.

Indeed, this is the aspect that most clearly sets the Suzuki Vitara apart from its competitors. Despite being a B-SUV, it still comes with four-wheel drive, and it is not there simply “for show”: it delivers genuine off-road ability, taking you much farther than initially expected and living up to its predecessors.

The only “problem” is the asking price for this four-wheel-drive Vitara: €30,954 (with the current campaign, it falls to €28,254). The reality is that few options in this segment offer four-wheel drive and, apart from one, they are as expensive as or more expensive than the Vitara. The exception? The Dacia Duster has a 4×4 variant from €22,150, but only with a diesel engine.

Is it the right car for me?

Rather than merely following a trend or attempting to avoid hefty fines, Suzuki Vitara's adoption of the mild-hybrid system has strengthened its rational appeal.

After all, who would not want technology that helps save money when filling up? And how else could you achieve averages of around 5.5 l/100 km in a petrol-powered, four-wheel-drive SUV?

If you are looking for a B-SUV that lives up to its adventurous appearance - its off-road capabilities are genuinely surprising - the Suzuki Vitara is one of the best, and one of the few, choices on the market. It is also very well equipped, especially in terms of driver-assistance systems, with every listed item fitted as standard. The Japanese SUV certainly does not lack compelling arguments.