Suzuki Vitara cars for sale

Frequently asked questions about the Suzuki Vitara

• What is the Suzuki Vitara?
• The Suzuki Vitara is a small crossover SUV, which has a history of proper four-wheel drive capability in an inexpensive package. The latest model (Suzuki Vitara LY) is very much on-road orientated, however – although you can still buy a 4x4 version, most buyers opt for the cheaper front-wheel drive variants. The Vitara fits into the Suzuki line-up below the SX4 S-Cross and above the Jimny. Rivals include the Nissan Juke, Renault Captur, Peugeot 2008, SEAT Arona, Volkswagen T-Cross, Citroen C3 Aircross and Ford EcoSport.

• Which versions are available?
• The Vitara doesn't come in a huge range – there is only one five-door bodystyle in the current generation, which is available with a choice of just two turbo petrol Boosterjet engines. The lower-powered option is a 1.0-litre motor with 111hp. It comes with a five-speed manual gearbox as standard, which can be combined with front- or Suzuki AllGrip four-wheel drive.
  
  You can have a six-speed automatic versions as well, but only with front-wheel drive. The more powerful option is a 1.4-litre engine with 140hp. This gets a six-speed manual or a six-speed auto, both of which can be combined with front- and four-wheel drive. There are currently three Vitara trim levels; all are generously equipped, but if you can afford to step up from the entry-level version it’s definitely worth doing so.

• What's under the skin?
• The Vitara has a chunkier look than most rivals in this segment of the crossover market. It looks more like a proper off-roader than a cutesy city car on stilts, but has still been substantially modernised. On the inside there is plenty of space, and a sensible control layout – but some dubious plastics in places, including some occasionally less-than-tasteful colour choices. Engineering-wise, the Vitara is related to the larger Suzuki SX4 S-Cross SUV.

• How does the Volvo V40 drive?
• As with most Suzukis, the Vitara provides a very spirited driving experience – not necessarily something you’d expect given the way it looks. Given the choice, we’d opt for the 1.4-litre engine, which feels quicker than the on-paper numbers suggest. Though the 1.0-litre is certainly up for the challenge, the going isn’t quite so easy.
  
  Either way, you get light but keen steering, plenty of grip – even from the front-wheel drive models – and good body control in the corners. The four-wheel drive system is ‘on-demand’, which means that in normal driving it’s mostly front-wheel drive until grip loss is detected, then it sends power to the rear as well. You do get a choice of four driving modes, though. The Vitara’s not got the most sophisticated ride quality, but should prove comfortable enough in every day driving, and has a generally ‘light on its feet’ feel.

• How much does it cost?
• Suzuki’s list prices aren’t as super-cheap as they used to be, so the Vitara doesn’t immediately look like a massive bargain. However, all models are well-equipped, and the Vitara holds its value well, which is helping Suzuki create some very impressive finance deals. APR details and so forth can vary, but at the time of writing our finance editor is keen to stress the Vitara is one of the best value cars on sale.