Suzuki Vitara 2024 review
Photo: Dinkun Chen (CC BY-SA 4.0), via Wikimedia Commons
Overview
The Suzuki Vitara is proof that a capable small SUV does not need a premium price tag. Starting from around £24,000, it undercuts nearly every rival while offering something few can match: genuine four-wheel-drive ability. The 1.4-litre Boosterjet petrol engine pairs with a 48V mild-hybrid system for 129PS, and ALLGRIP four-wheel drive is available for buyers who venture beyond the tarmac — a rarity in this price bracket.
On the road the Vitara is honest and easygoing rather than thrilling. Light steering, a tight turning circle and compact dimensions make it ideal for town driving, while the raised ride height gives a commanding view. The mild-hybrid system smooths stop-start traffic and helps the Vitara to a respectable 52.9mpg on the WLTP cycle with CO2 from 121g/km.
The cabin is straightforward and durable rather than plush, with a 7-inch or 9-inch touchscreen featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Trims run Motion and Ultra, both generously equipped with adaptive cruise control, dual-zone climate and heated seats. Rivals include the Dacia Duster, MG ZS and Renault Captur. Insurance groups are low, parts are cheap, and Suzuki's reliability record is excellent — a smart buy for budget-conscious families and rural drivers alike.
UK price from: £24,000
Specifications
| Engine | 1.4-litre Boosterjet petrol + 48V mild hybrid |
| Power | 129PS |
| 0-60 mph | 9.5 seconds |
| Top speed | 118 mph |
| Fuel economy | 52.9 mpg (WLTP combined) |
| CO2 | 121 g/km |
| Boot space | 362 litres |
| Length | 4,175 mm |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual |
| Drive | Front-wheel drive (ALLGRIP 4x4 optional) |
Features
- 1.4 Boosterjet petrol with 48V mild-hybrid system (129PS)
- Genuine ALLGRIP four-wheel drive available — rare at this price
- Up to 52.9mpg combined with CO2 from 121g/km
- 9-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Adaptive cruise control and dual-zone climate as standard
- Heated front seats and heated door mirrors
- Sliding and reclining rear seats for flexible space
- Compact 4.18m length — easy to park in town
Common parts & prices
| Part | Price (GBP) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Front brake pads (pair) | £34.99 | Genuine Suzuki pads; pattern parts from £16.99 |
| Oil filter | £9.99 | Genuine Suzuki filter; service every 9,000 miles |
| Air filter | £14.99 | Replace every 2 years or 18,000 miles |
| Wiper blades (pair) | £19.99 | 22in driver / 18in passenger flat blades |
| 12V battery | £89.99 | Standard flooded battery for mild-hybrid model |
| Timing chain kit | £139.99 | Chain-driven engine; inspect at high mileage |
Pros
- Excellent value — one of the cheapest SUVs to buy and run
- Real four-wheel-drive option for rural and winter driving
- Low insurance groups and cheap replacement parts
- Suzuki's strong reliability and simple, proven engineering
Cons
- Cabin plastics feel basic next to pricier rivals
- Ride is firm on rough UK roads
- Infotainment screen and graphics look dated
- Hybrid versions use an automated-manual gearbox that can feel jerky
