Suzuki adds turbocharged derivative to Vitara line-up

Suzuki has added a turbocharged derivative to its Vitara range in both manual and automatic guise.  The Vitara uses the same 1.4-litre Boosterjet engine as the new Suzuki Swift Sport and delivers 103kW and 220Nm. 

Power is delivered to the front wheels via a six-speed manual gearbox or a six-speed automatic gearbox, with the latter offering manual shifting via steering-mounted paddles. 

Pricing for the new entries comes in at R378 900 for the GLX manual and R397 900 for the GLX automatic derivative, included in the price is a four-year or 60 000km service plan and a five-year or 200 000km warranty. 

                                               Image: Motorpress 

Suzuki is at pains to insist that the forced induction engine uses 5.8-litres/100km for the for the manual model and 5.9-litres/100km for the auto. 

The power is delivered to the front wheels and it should be noted that although the automatic gearbox is similar to the unit available on the normally aspirated 1.6 litre models (with steering-mounted paddles), the manual gearbox adds a sixth gear and is counterweighed for a more positive and sportier shifting feel.

                                                Image: Motorpress 

The Vitara Turbo mirrors the specification and equipment levels of the range-topping GLX grade, including 17-inch alloy wheels and the choice of five solid colours and buyers can even opt for seven dual-tone combinations, where the body colour is contrasted by the choice of a black or white roof, depending on the colour chosen.

LED head and tail lights and silver roof rails and chrome detailing in the front grille and under the fog lamps add a little pizzazz to the overall package. 

Suzuki offers a long list of standard features including: steering mounted controls for the audio, cruise control park, distance control front and rear, automatic climate control, a 10.6cm multi-information full colour display in the instrument binnacle and electric windows and mirrors. 

There's a reverse camera, leather and suede-covered seats, automatic wipers and and a 7cm touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone connectivity. 

The system includes an SD slot, a USB port, Bluetooth connectivity for hands free dialling and voice control for many of the infotainment features. 

                                               Image: Motorpress