Suzuki Carry (99-05) - Review

The Suzuki Carry is a small van that's an alternative to car-based vans like the Astra Van. Its strength lies in its size and shape. It's pretty compact, which makes it ideal for companies that are primarily city or town-based: it can dart through traffic and is easy to park. It's also available as a pick-up with drop sides. Just one engine was offered during Carry's seven years on sale, a 77bhp 1.3-litre.

The fairly roomy interior seats two. The driving position is upright with limited adjustment, but the large wing mirrors give a good rearward visibility. The design of the cabin is simple and it's pretty user friendly. There's a CD/radio and several cubbies and trays for documents.

It's an agile and nimble van, ideal for city work. Its compact shape means it can weave through traffic and park-up in tight places, while its engine gives nippy acceleration up to 30mph. It performs best with lighter loads, so is better for florists, electricians and caterers, rather than hauling around building equipment. The steering is pretty sharp, but you need to be forceful with the gearchange and careful around roundabouts - Carry's high centre of gravity means that there's a lot of body roll. On the motorway, the 77bhp 1.3-litre engine can feel stretched. You sit almost on top of the engine, so engine noise is a problem - especially at higher speeds - creating a buzzy noise inside the cabin, making longer trips a chore. It also lacks power at 50-70mph, which means overtaking moves have to be well planned. Crosswinds can also be a problem.