About the Suzuki Vitara
AI-generatedThe Suzuki Vitara is a compact SUV that has been a mainstay in the UK market since its relaunch in 2015. This fourth-generation model offers a practical alternative to rivals like the Nissan Juke and Renault Captur, combining distinctive styling with Suzuki's reputation for reliability. Available with a choice of petrol engines and either front-wheel or all-wheel drive, the Vitara provides excellent value for money with generous standard equipment levels and competitive running costs. The Vitara's lightweight construction contributes to its peppy performance and fuel efficiency, while the elevated driving position and compact dimensions make it ideal for both urban and rural driving. The interior is functional rather than luxurious, but build quality is generally solid. With its blend of practicality, affordability, and Suzuki's strong dealer network, the Vitara has carved out a loyal following among buyers seeking a no-nonsense compact SUV that won't break the bank.
Known Issues
Known Issues
Fourth Generation
2015-2018
- Infotainment system can be slow to respond and occasionally freezes requiring a reset
- Some reports of turbocharger issues on 1.4 Boosterjet engines, particularly in early examples
- Automatic gearbox can be hesitant and jerky in stop-start traffic
- Rear differential oil seals may leak on ALLGRIP (4WD) models
- Paint quality can be inconsistent with reports of chips and flaking on some models
Fourth Generation Facelift
2019-2024
- Mild hybrid system battery issues reported on some 2020+ models
- Touchscreen connectivity problems with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Front brake discs can corrode prematurely if the car is used mainly for short journeys
- Some owners report excessive tyre wear, particularly on front tyres
- Water ingress into rear light clusters on certain production batches
Photo by Milan Masnikosa on Pexels
Running Costs
Running Costs
Annual Fuel
£1,400-£1,800
Insurance Group
16-22
Average Service
£280
Cost Calculator
Typical Prices
£17,000 - £22,000
£13,500 - £17,500
£10,000 - £14,000
£6,000 - £9,000
Pros & Cons
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Excellent value for money with generous standard equipment
- Strong reliability record and low running costs
- Lightweight design provides good fuel economy and nimble handling
- Compact dimensions make it easy to park and manoeuvre in urban environments
- ALLGRIP four-wheel-drive system offers genuine off-road capability
- Five-year warranty provides peace of mind
- Practical interior with decent boot space for the class
Photo by Elizabeth Tamara on Pexels
Best & Worst Years
Best & Worst Years
Best Years
- 2019 - First year of the facelift with improved styling, updated interior, better safety kit, and the introduction of the refined 1.4 Boosterjet mild hybrid system. Most early teething problems resolved.
- 2020 - Benefited from full production year of improvements, enhanced standard equipment across the range, and the mild hybrid system had been refined further for better efficiency.
- 2022 - Mature model with all known issues addressed, excellent build quality, comprehensive standard equipment including safety features, and still covered by the generous five-year warranty.
Worst Years
- 2015 - Launch year with some early build quality inconsistencies, less refined 1.6 petrol engine, basic infotainment system, and higher incidence of minor electrical issues as initial bugs were worked out.
- 2016 - Some carryover issues from 2015, and the 1.6 diesel engine (DDiS) proved problematic for some owners with DPF and turbo issues, though this was dropped relatively quickly from the UK range.
Buying Checklist
Engine6 items
- Check for oil leaks around the turbocharger and valve cover on 1.4 Boosterjet models
- Listen for any whistling or unusual turbo noises during acceleration
- Ensure the engine starts smoothly and idles without hesitation
- Check oil level and condition - should be clean and at correct level
- Look for excessive exhaust smoke which could indicate turbo or engine wear
Did You Know?
Did You Know?
The Vitara name dates back to 1988, with the original model being one of the first compact SUVs on the market and a pioneer of the lifestyle 4x4 segment.
Suzuki's ALLGRIP all-wheel-drive system can send up to 50% of power to the rear wheels and features four driving modes: Auto, Sport, Snow, and Lock.
The Vitara is built in Hungary at the Magyar Suzuki plant, which also produces models for other markets worldwide.
Suzuki offers one of the longest warranties in the automotive industry at 5 years/100,000 miles, demonstrating confidence in the Vitara's reliability.
Alternatives to Consider
Nissan Juke
6/10Similar size with more distinctive styling and a more upmarket interior, though slightly more expensive to run and buy.
Renault Captur
6/10Offers a more refined interior, better infotainment system, and slightly more rear seat space, though reliability may not match the Vitara.
Dacia Duster
7/10Even better value with available 4WD, larger boot, and lower running costs, but more basic interior and fewer refinements.
Owner Tips
- 1Change the engine oil annually even if the service interval hasn't been reached, especially for cars doing short journeys - this prevents sludge build-up.
- 2On ALLGRIP models, engage the four-wheel-drive system regularly (at least monthly) to keep the rear differential and transfer case lubricated.
- 3Check brake discs regularly for corrosion, particularly if you mainly do short trips - preventative replacement is cheaper than seized calipers.
- 4Update the infotainment software through your Suzuki dealer to resolve connectivity and freezing issues - updates are often free.
- 5Use premium fuel occasionally (every few tanks) in the 1.4 Boosterjet engine to help prevent carbon build-up on the turbo and intake valves.
- 6Inspect the rear light clusters for condensation after heavy rain - if present, get them resealed to prevent electrical issues.
- 7Keep an eye on tyre pressures and rotate tyres every 6,000 miles to ensure even wear and extend tyre life.
- 8
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