Suzuki’s first hybrid in South Africa – What you get for R530,000

After a long wait, Suzuki South Africa has finally introduced its new Grand Vitara, bringing with it the brand’s first hybrid driveline for the local market.

Only one electrically-incentivised model is available in the catalogue, sitting right at the top at a starting price of R529,900.

Those interested in the SUV have a lot to look forward to, as it brings one of the most complete feature sets in its price bracket

Smart Hybrid Vehicle by Suzuki

The flagship Vitara’s underpinnings combine a 1.5-litre, naturally-aspirated petrol motor with the manufacturer’s “Smart Hybrid Vehicle by Suzuki” (SHVS) technologies.

This SHVS system consists of an integrated starter generator with a 12V battery that is “designed to deliver additional assistance to the engine during acceleration” for smoother and easier pullaways, said Suzuki.

The partially-electrified powertrain supplies 76kW and 137Nm which is good for a top speed of 165km/h, but actually 1kW and 1Nm lower than the standard petrol variants.

While the new-energy Vitara may not outshine its siblings in the performance category all that much, it does come with a few distinct advantages namely fuel consumption and the AllGrip system.

The hybrid boasts an average fuel usage of 5.6l/100km – compared to the standard models’ 6.0l/100km – and it channels power to both axles via a six-speed automatic transmission, whereas the standard automatics make do with four gears and front-wheel drive.

Moreover, the AllGrip programme provides model-exclusive drive modes comprising Auto, Sport, Snow, and Lock.

Auto adjusts the system in response to the terrain and driver’s inputs, while Sport ensures better grip and power delivery, said Suzuki.

Snow, on the other hand, is used in the case of slippery surface conditions, whereas Lock makes sure that drive is evenly distributed between all four corners during more demanding off-road situations.

This derivative is also the only one with an auto start-stop feature that switches off the engine whilst you’re standing still, for example at a red light, in the spirit of fuel savings.

The best Suzuki has to offer

As Suzuki’s headlining product in its local portfolio, the hybrid Grand Vitara is endowed with all the goodies the company has to offer.

Standout equipment includes a 9-inch central touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a heads-up display, a 360-degree camera system, leather seats, a wireless charger, a panoramic sunroof, paddle shifters, ambient lighting, and keyless entry and start.

Other nice-to-haves take the form of automatic climate control with rear-seat vents, a leather multifunction steering wheel, a 4.2-inch multi-information driver’s display, rear parking sensors, cruise control, automatic LED headlamps with daytime running lights and follow-me-home functionality, and 17-inch machined alloy wheels.

At the rear, a boot with a cargo capacity of 328 litres offers a decent amount of packing room, while a towing capacity of 1,000kg ensures additional practicality should the cargo space within the SUV not be sufficient.

Finally, the Suzuki can be customised with six exterior hues namely Arctic White, Celestial Blue, Grandeur Grey, Midnight Black, Opulent Red, and Splendid Silver – with the red, silver, and white paints further being available with a contrasting black roof.