Suzuki Carry (99-05) - Review

There are two bodystyles to choose from: a panel van and a pick-up. The van is a compact design, but the tall shape means there's plenty of loadspace. It's totally flat in the back with no intrusions from the wheel arches. Underneath the main deck is a separate area which is ideal for carrying bags or smaller items. The pick-up is ideal for landscape gardeners, with hinged dropsides and tailgate. Its payload capacity is 577kg for the panel van and 665kg for the pick-up.

Later models get a driver's airbag, but aside from that safety kit is pretty spartan. Security is better, with remote central locking and an engine immobiliser. An alarm was optional.

It's a cheap van to pick up and generally quite cheap to run. The 1.3-litre petrol engine returns acceptable fuel economy, but there's no diesel option. This means the Carry rules itself out for owners who cover large mileages; your needs may be better served by something like a Transit Connect or a car-based vehicle like the Astra van.

Generally mechanically robust, though it needs to have been regularly serviced to maintain this. The interior isn't as heavy duty, though, and much of the trim can be easily damaged. This is likely to especially evident on older vans.