Suzuki Vitara practicality and boot space

Slightly smaller than the S-Cross, from which it utilises a shortened platform, Suzuki Vitara practicality is taken care of admirably. There’s a decent amount of room in both the front and rear, though a couple of rivals offer slightly more legroom and extra flexibility - such as the SEAT Arona - and the 375-litre boot is commendable rather than generous.

A 60/40 split function allows that number to be increased beyond 700 litres though, and the adjustable boot floor means you can hide smaller items underneath, out of sight.

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Back in the cabin the doors have usefully sized pockets, the glovebox is a decent size and the centre console boasts a pair of – admittedly shallow – cupholders. There’s a useful storage shelf in front of the gearlever perfect for placing your Smartphone, and perfectly placed next to the USB connection for any portable devices you wish to charge or use in the vehicle.

Safety

Suzuki Vitara safety is taken care of by the firm’s Total Effective Control Technology (TECT) which encompasses special impact protection and a low weight thanks to plenty of ultrahigh tensile steel being used in the body. Should there be an accident all Vitaras come with seven airbags as standard, along with electronic stability control and tyre pressure monitoring.

Tested by EuroNCAP in 2015, the Vitara achieved a five-star rating. For those living in rural environments the Allgrip four-wheel drive system will provide extra reassurance in nasty weather, helping avoid an accident in the first place.

Opt for the range-topping SZ5 model and the car will lend an even larger hand in this quest, with a comprehensive list of driver assistance and safety tech such as adaptive cruise control, blindspot monitoring, active lane-departure warning, autonomous emergency braking and rear cross-traffic alert.