Update:
Suzuki has unveiled its new Vitara, including more details about the options buyers will have and technical specifications.
According to Suzuki buyers will have the option to combine “a range of exterior and interior items to express their individual personalities”.
As can be seen on the one picture above, the new infotainment system allows smartphone connectivity as well as a navigation system. A new safety feature for Suzuki also includes a radar brake support system. This system is also implemented with the adaptive cruise control.
Powering the new Vitara will be a choice of the M16 1,6-litre petrol engine (88 kW/156 N.m) or the D16AA 1,6-litre turbodiesel unit (88 kW/320 N.m).
A five-speed manual gearbox will be connected with the petrol engine, and a six-speed manual with the turbodiesel. It seems that the six-speed automatic will only be available with the petrol engine.
According to Suzuki fuel consumption will be as low as 106 g/km of CO2 (4,0 litres per 100 km) for the two-wheel drive, manual turbodiesel derivative.
Those looking into tackling the road less travelled, the Vitara comes with a minimum ground clearance of 185 mm, an 18 degrees approach angle and a 28 departure angle.
More specifications
Overall length: 4 175mm
Overall width: 1 775mm
Overall height: 1 610mm
Wheelbase: 2 500mm
Treads: Front 1 535mm, rear 1 505mm
Minimum ground clearance: 185 mm
Luggage space: 375 litre (VDA)
Tyre size: 215/60R16 or 215/55R17
Old story:
As the opening date of the Paris Motor Show approaches, we can expect more and more manufacturers to release details of new products.
The latest news come from Suzuki who has confirmed that it will unveil its all-new Vitara at the show. Suzuki has been cagey regarding any specifications, only stating that – as before – the Vitara will be offered, as an option, with the company’s Allgrip all-wheel-drive system.
Although these compact SUVs will be available with both petrol and diesel engines overseas, it is unclear if both derivatives will be heading for our market. At the moment Suzuki doesn’t offer a single diesel derivative in South Africa.
Full details about the car and range will be released during the first week of October.
Expect the new Suzuki Vitara to arrive in South Africa early-winter 2015.