Japanese-owned compact vehicle assembler Suzuki Philippines launched the all-new fourth-generation Suzuki Vitara subcompact sport utility vehicle (SUV), which is equipped with newer design (inside and out) and other features said to enhance driving as well as capturing Millennials as its target market.
“Equipped with the longest and widest dimension in its class with the best radius performance, the features of the new Vitara are aimed at providing the best value in terms of design, performance and fuel efficiency,” said Shuzo Hoshikura, automobile division general manager of Suzuki Philippines. “Through these, we believe we will enhance the Filipino driving experience, which is at the core of bringing drivers closer to the Suzuki Way of Life. Millennials can look forward to a safe, comfortable and optimum driving experience that for many years, Filipinos have anticipated with the next-generation Vitara.”
A successor of the third-generation Grand Vitara, the all-new Vitara has an overall body dimensions measuring 1,755mm in width, 1,610mm in height, 4,175mm in length, and a minimum ground clearance of 185mm, making it the longest and widest in its class with the best turning radius performance. It comes in two models: the GLX and GL+.
The exterior features of the vehicle include the modernized Suzuki SUV signature clamshell bonnet combined with front grille and fenders, and furnished with energy-savings LED headlamps and LED Daytime Running Lamps on the front. Daytime running lamps with vertically placed LEDs and LED headlamps with blue projector cover are standard with the GLX model, while Projector Halogen headlamps are used in GL and GL+ models.
On the side are a roof line for aerodynamic performance and side mirrors. Alloy wheels is also available in 17-inch for GLX, 16-inch for GL+ and 16-inch steel wheel with full caps for GL model. The rear, on the other hand, features a trapezoidal line towards the ground while the tailgate is adorned by hexagon-shaped taillights.
The new Vitara also has updated interior features. Available in 10-inch for GLX and 7-inch for GL and GL+ variants, the new Vitara is equipped with an Android-based touchscreen Infotainment audio system having the same features. The GLX model enables on-the-go connectivity through its Wi-Fi support while the MirrorLink function links the rider’s smartphone with the SUV’s audio system. Aside from connectivity, the system packs navigation, Bluetooth audio and a USB port.
The upper portion of the interior sports a linear instrument panel that includes a round clock and a round air outlet. All models have footwell lamp and key-less push start system.
Having a steering wheel that can be adjusted 36mm of reach and 40mm of rake, together with the driver’s seat, the SUV can accommodate drivers of diverse physique. Seats made of fabric have been adopted for the GL and GL+ models while a combination of leather and suede-type fabric is available for GLX. The luggage space, which can accommodate up to 375 liters, can be expanded by lowering the luggage board or removing the dividers on both sides of the luggage area. The rear seats can also be folded to avail of more spaces for up to 710 liters.
The SUV has a 6-point airbag system, consisting of dual, curtain and side airbags for the driver and passenger. It is also equipped with cruise control system and speed limiter, sensors in the front and rear bumpers with reverse camera that detects parking obstacles, an automatic light system that turns headlamps and tail lamps on and off, and automatic wipers.
Apart from these, the vehicle has an electronic stability program (ESP) which automatically controls the engine torque and brakes upon detection of a wheel slip to maintain driver’s directional control. The hillhold control, on the other hand, prevents the vehicle from rolling backward on an upward climb. If there should be a collision, the SUV has an impact-absorbing design on the front bumpers for this purpose. In case of a frontal impact, it has a brake pedal release system which limits the pedal’s movement toward the driver. The vehicle also has a Total Effective Control Technology (TECT) which absorbs impact while its seatbelts use force limiter to mitigate impact to the occupants’ chest.
The new Vitara has an updated 1.6-liter engine designed to deliver the highest torque performance of 156Nm at 4,400rpm and maximum output in its class at 115hp at 6,000rpm. For better climbing ability, the SUV has a 6-speed automatic transmission, and equipped with paddle shifter on steering that allows to shift manually.
Available in Atlantis Turquoise Pearl, Horizon Orange Metallic, and Bright Red Metallic, the GLX model is priced at P1,048,000. For GL+ model which is sold at P938,000, buyers can choose from the following color variants: Cool White Pearl, Silky Silver Metallic, Galactic Gray Metallic, Cosmic Black Pearl Metallic and Atlantis Turquoise Pearl Metallic.
