Al-Qalam 
By Imraan Buccus
There is a good reason the Suzuki Grand Vitara has become one of South Africa’s most recognisable compact SUVs. While the market has been flooded with newcomers promising more technology and luxury, the Grand Vitara has quietly built its reputation on something arguably more important – getting the basics right.
I spent few days behind the wheel and it quickly becomes clear that this is a vehicle designed with everyday family life firmly in mind rather than headline-grabbing statistics.
The Grand Vitara has matured into an SUV that looks equally at home outside a suburban shopping centre or setting off on a weekend escape. Sharp LED lighting, attractive alloy wheels and clean body lines give it a modern appearance without trying too hard. It has enough presence to stand out while avoiding the overstyled look that has become common in this segment.
Inside, Suzuki has done an impressive job of creating a cabin that feels more expensive than its price tag suggests. The GLX derivative, in particular, offers artificial leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof and subtle ambient lighting that lift the overall ambience considerably. The dashboard design is neat and uncluttered, while the materials used throughout the cabin strike a pleasing balance between durability and sophistication.
Space is another of the Grand Vitara’s strengths. Both front and rear passengers enjoy generous head and legroom, making longer journeys comfortable for the whole family. The seats offer excellent support, and after several hours on the road there is little to complain about in terms of driving comfort. Visibility is good all round, while the driving position feels natural almost immediately.
Practicality has clearly been a priority. The luggage compartment offers 310 litres of boot space, expanding to 1 147 litres when the 60:40 split rear seats are folded flat. Whether it is the weekly grocery run, sports equipment or luggage for a holiday, the Grand Vitara copes without fuss.
Technology has also moved with the times. A crisp 9-inch infotainment touchscreen supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing smartphones to connect seamlessly without trailing cables across the cabin. The interface is intuitive and responsive, while features such as wireless phone charging, a head-up display and a 360-degree camera system add genuine convenience rather than unnecessary gimmicks.
Safety specification is equally comprehensive. Six airbags, Electronic Stability Programme, Hill Start Assist and rear parking sensors all come standard on the flagship GLX, giving buyers reassurance that the vehicle is equipped to protect both driver and passengers.
Under the bonnet sits Suzuki’s familiar 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine producing 77kW and 138Nm. Power is delivered to the front wheels through a four-speed automatic transmission.
. The four-speed automatic occasionally hesitates before selecting the appropriate ratio, and the modest power output means overtaking requires careful planning.
Fortunately, outright performance has never been the Grand Vitara’s primary objective. Instead, it rewards drivers with impressive fuel efficiency. Real-world consumption between 6.5 and 7.0 litres per 100 kilometres is easily achievable, making it an affordable companion for daily commuting as well as longer road trips.
Where the Grand Vitara truly shines is ride comfort.
South African roads rarely provide ideal conditions, yet Suzuki’s suspension makes it navigate our pot holed roads seamlessly. The cabin remains impressively quiet, with wind and road noise kept well under control, adding to the relaxed driving experience.
Its 210 mm ground clearance also inspires confidence, especially down a driveway like mine in hilly Durban. Gravel roads, uneven driveways and rough parking areas pose little challenge, giving the Grand Vitara a versatility many urban SUVs struggle to match.
The steering is light enough for city manoeuvres while remaining reassuringly stable on the open road. Although enthusiastic drivers may wish for a little more power, the Grand Vitara delivers predictable, confidence-inspiring handling that suits its family-focused character perfectly.
Ultimately, the Suzuki Grand Vitara succeeds because it understands its audience. It does not pretend to be a performance SUV or a luxury flagship. Instead, it focuses on providing comfort, practicality, dependable engineering and generous equipment at a competitive price.
A more modern automatic transmission and a little extra engine performance would undoubtedly elevate the driving experience even further. Yet those shortcomings are outweighed by its refinement, excellent ride quality and ease of ownership.
For buyers seeking an honest, comfortable and well-equipped family SUV that delivers everyday usability without unnecessary complexity, the Grand Vitara remains one of the strongest contenders in its class, in my view.
