CAR REVIEW: Suzuki Vitara SZ5 Hybrid

Top marks for the Suzuki Vitara. Our fabulous, award-winning Sales and Marketing Director, Rachael, took delivery of her branded company car recently. But what does she think of her new Suzuki Vitara?

To be clear, we’re talking about the SZ5 mild-hybrid model, with a 1.4-litre petrol engine, which comes under the ‘small SUV’ banner.

If you don’t know what a ‘mild-hybrid’ is (as opposed to a full-hybrid – I didn’t!), it means that the vehicle is boosted by the electric element of the motor, so that the engine goes much further with the fuel it has.

However, the car can’t run exclusively as an electric motor. This mild-hybrid technology keeps running costs low and means that Rachael enjoys all the tax (and congestion charging) benefits of a pure electric model.

“I am so impressed with how little I need to refuel,” said Rachael, “the car just keeps on going and I don’t have the anxiety of running out of range!”

And she’s pleased with the drive too, reporting that it’s smooth both around town and on the motorway, thanks to strong power delivery (it does 0-60mph in 10.2 seconds) from the 129 bhp engine.

The safety features were a must-have for Rachael, being that the car is used not only for work but also as a family vehicle. She loves the automatic headlights, lane departure warning system and the dual sensor brake support as well as the ALLGRIP 4-wheel drive technology, perfect for all terrains.

The Vitara is packed full of technology too. There's a built-in sat nav; handy for someone who’s always out meeting local businesses. Reversing camera and front and rear parking sensors also come as standard as does the Smartphone link display, with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Suzukis don’t generally have a reputation for being flashy, but this is an attractive, professional-looking car with genuine SUV capability, and it works well with our TGt branding. Not only that but it’s comfortable – spacious with well-designed seats and generous storage space, including a massive 362-litre boot capacity – and that’s with the seats up!

Suzuki receives fewer complaints about their cars and after-sales service than any other car manufacturer. And Rachael can see why; from £20,999, she thinks the Vitara is a great all-rounder and fabulous value for money. Stylish and hard-working (just like Rachael herself!) what’s not to love about the Vitara?

To find out more, contact Breeze Suzuki in Poole, your local Suzuki dealership. Breeze Suzuki is part of Breeze Motor Group; a family-run, independent Suzuki, Volkswagen and (coming soon) Ducati dealer with a reputation for friendly service.