Answers
Dec 06, 2021 - 10:16 PM
Hi there
The Suzuki Vitara turbo is definitely the one to go for, if your budget allows: it has more than enough power with excellent fuel efficiency. There's an interesting discrepancy in the Vitara line-up, by the way. The turbo comes only in top-spec GLX trim (which is very well-equipped indeed), but it does not have a sunroof at all (which you will get with the 1.6 GLX).
But, if you're looking for a high-value option in the range, we'd recommend a 1.6 GL+ instead - ideally with a manual gearbox. It has most of the comfort- and convenience items you'd get in a high-spec GLX (barring the sunroof, LED headlights and Alcantara upholstery), but costs a cool R 75 000 less than a manual 1.4T.
While the non-turbo 1.6 doesn't have as much power and torque as the turbo 1.4, it moves along nicely enough if you're prepared to stir the gear lever, and it doesn't penalise you at the pumps when you do so.
For similar outlay, you could also consider a new Chery Tiggo 4 Pro 1.5T, a VW T-Cross, or a Haval Jolion - they each have their strong suits, but the Suzuki still offers a compelling combination of space, spec, value and efficiency even in the face of such staunch opponents.
Hope this helps!
The AskAutoTrader Team
Dec 06, 2021 - 11:36 PM
Dec 08, 2021 - 04:05 AM
Hi there!
Great observation regarding the other Vitaras! The low-end models are still present in our resident price lists, so we contacted Suzuki South Africa for clarification on this matter. It turns out that the semiconductor shortage has hit Suzuki's European factory (which produces the Vitara) particularly hard, leading to production cutbacks and resulting in a worldwide stock shortage of the Vitara.
With this in mind, the decision was made to drop the low-trim Vitaras from the line-up, leaving only the (slower-selling) high-end variants in the range, of which there is enough available to ensure a consistent supply in South Africa. The Brezza's popularity undoubtedly also played a part in this decision, because it covers a large portion of the lower end Vitara's segment at a much lower price.
Thank you for bringing this to our attention!
The AskAutoTrader Team
Add New Comment