Test drive Suzuki Vitara S: brave heart

First impressions of the new top model in the Suzuki Vitara range

The new top model of the Suzuki Vitara family is already on sale, and auto motor und sport had the opportunity to get to know him immediately after his arrival in Bulgaria. Along with the special equipment, including some distinctive (and rather impressive) stylistic effects, the car boasts one of the most important technological innovations the brand has introduced in recent years, namely the first of a new series of named gasoline engines. Boosterjet. These state-of-the-art powerplants include three- or four-cylinder turbocharged engines, in particular the Suzuki Vitara S is equipped with a 1,4-liter turbocharged engine with direct fuel injection and an output of 140 hp. located above its atmospheric counterpart with a displacement of 1,6 liters and a power of 120 hp. As you might have guessed, a much more important advantage of the new creation of Japanese engineers is its torque - the maximum value of 220 Nm is only available at 1500 rpm and remains constant over a surprisingly wide range (up to 4000 rpm). min). The 1,6-liter engine with classic atmospheric filling has a maximum torque of 156 Nm at 4400 rpm.

Another interesting novelty of the Vitara S is the ability to order a new engine in combination with a new transmission - a six-speed automatic with a torque converter and six gears.

Suzuki Vitara S with impressive Sport Mode

Let's see how the new tandem of engine and gearbox actually looks like: from the first start, the drive makes a good impression with its good temperament. With a rotary knob on the center console, the driver can select a sport mode that sharpens the engine's response. It is an indisputable fact that the aluminum engine spontaneously reacts to gas and has excellent intermediate thrust during acceleration. Due to good elasticity, the transmission rarely accelerates the engine above 3000 rpm. And speaking of the gearbox - especially in urban areas and with a relatively relaxed driving style, it significantly improves the pleasant comfort provided by the transmission. Only on the highway and with a more sporty driving style, her reaction sometimes becomes hesitant.

The chassis and handling of the Suzuki Vitara S is no different from other versions of the model, which is actually good news - the compact SUV has impressed with its agility, safe cornering and excellent grip since its introduction. Standard 17-inch top-of-the-line wheels with 215/55 tires contribute to solid traction, but partially limit the suspension's ability to absorb bumps optimally - a trend that, however, weakens significantly at higher speeds.

Rich equipment and distinctive stylistic accents

Suzuki singled out the Vitara S stylistically from other model modifications. Outside, special black wheels and a redesigned radiator grille are impressive. At first glance, the interior features suede-upholstered seats with contrasting red stitching similar to the steering wheel. The vents on the center console, as well as the round analogue watch, also received red decorative rings. The Suzuki Vitara S also has advanced equipment, including (fairly intuitive controls) a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation and smartphone connectivity, adaptive cruise control, keyless entry and start, and heated front end. seat.

CONCLUSION

Suzuki Vitara S is a promising addition to the lineup - the new gasoline turbo engine stands out for its good temperament, good elasticity and even power distribution, and the six-speed automatic is a completely comfortable solution for those who care about comfort.

Text: Bozhan Boshnakov

Photo: L. Vilgalis, M. Yosifova.