Last Thursday, Suzuki Philippines has successfully unveiled the all-new fourth generation Suzuki Vitara.
For more than 3 decades, the Vitara has been known for its driving performance and off-road capabilities. Before it was officially launched, we have the opportunity to see and test the car at the Indonesia Motor Show. The only difference is that the car operates on the right hand-driving position.
The new Vitara has upgraded the heritage design of Suzuki SUV adding a modern elements suited for city driving.
What to expect with the new Vitara?
If you’ve seen the Vitara before, you’ll notice how the design has changed. We start with its size. From its previous size of 4,500 mm length, the new Vitara has shortened to 4,175 mm. The height also adjusted from 1,683 mm to 1,610 mm.
From previous boxy appearance, the new body exudes a strong yet sophisticated modernized Suzuki SUV signature clamshell bonnet. There’s the side press lines and smooth roofline that compliments the rear youthful yet rugged look.
Inside, the new Vitara has a totally difference ambiance. The instrument panel conveys a youthful look with its upper linear design. The seats, which features a combination of leather and suede-type fabric, offers full comfort to passengers when aboard. There’s a panoramic sunroof for the top-of-the-line variant designed with two glass panels that can be both slid to provide the biggest opening in its class and added premium to the unit.
While driving the Vitara, especially on long trips, the new Vitara’s Infotainment audio system ensures a more enjoyable ride. Besides handsfree connectivity, the system packs navigation, Bluetooth audio and a USB port. To complete its interior refinement, the new Vitara provides more decent luggage space, particularly with the back seats.
In terms of power, the fourth generation Vitara replaces its 2.4-liter to a new 1.6-liter engine similar to its first generation Vitara. It’s designed to deliver the highest torque performance of 156 Nm at 4,400 rpm and best maximum output in its class at 115 hp at 6,000 rpm.
Safety-wise, the new Suzuki Vitara delivers enhanced safety on the road. It has 6-point airbag system comprising of dual curtain and side airbags for the driver and passenger protection. It also features cruise control system and speed limiter, ultrasonic sensors in the front and rear bumpers with reverse camera that detect obstacles during parking, an automatic light system that turns headlamps and tail lamps on and off, and automatic wipers triggered depending on the extent of rainfall and vehicle speed.
The new Vitara has good traction and stability control that keeps the suspension well balanced thanks to the SUV’s electronic stability program (ESP) that automatically controls engine torque and brakes upon detection of a wheelslip.
As per price, the new Vitara is selling at P938,000 (GL variant) and P1,048,000 (GLX variant).