Suzuki Vitara Hybrid: Small SUV, Big Mischief And Efficiency
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You could call the Vitara Hybrid sensible. You could say it is reliable. You could also say it is exactly the sort of compact SUV people buy by the thousand because it does the job, pays the bills and does not complain. Suzuki has taken that recipe and laced it with hybrid technology so the Vitara feels a touch greener and a touch smarter without any fuss or theatrics.
What Powers It
Under the bonnet sits Suzuki’s Smart Hybrid Vehicle by Suzuki system, a mild hybrid setup that pairs a 1.4 litre BoosterJet turbo petrol engine with a 48 volt electrical assistant and a lithium ion battery. It is not a plug in electric car. It will not moan at you about charging points. Instead the electric system helps at take off, smooths acceleration and recovers energy under braking. The upshot is better fuel economy and fewer trips to the pump while the car behaves politely and predictably on every kind of road.
On The Road
The Vitara Hybrid is available in a turbo hybrid form that is surprisingly willing, and there is an ALLGRIP all wheel drive option for those who like the idea of confidence rather than outright sportiness. ALLGRIP offers selectable modes including Sport, Snow and Lock so the same little SUV will happily shuffle through commuter traffic and then tackle a muddy lane at the weekend. Prices are reasonable, with the Turbo Hybrid starting from the high thirties and the Turbo Hybrid ALLGRIP from the mid forties, leaving you some change for coffee and a roof box.
Cabin And Gadgets
Inside, the Vitara Hybrid keeps things clean and practical. There is a central touchscreen that supports smartphone integration alongside physical switches so you do not need to fumble with menus at traffic lights. The standard model comes with a seven inch screen while nicer trims step up to nine inches, and you get a tidy mix of materials that feel better than they have any right to at this price. Luggage space is sensible too, with room for daily shopping and the odd suitcase when the rear seats are folded down.
Final Thoughts
If you want drama and fireworks buy something that costs twice as much. If you want a compact SUV that is light on fuel, practical on the inside and willing on the road then the Vitara Hybrid is a clever and modest choice. It is Suzuki being Suzuki, which is to say dependable, quietly useful and just a smidge more interesting than your average commuter car.
Zachary Skinner is the editor of TechDrivePlay.com, where tech, cars and adventure share the fast lane.
A former snowboarding pro and programmer, he brings both creative flair and technical know-how to his reviews. From high-performance cars to clever gadgets, he explores how innovation shapes the way we move, connect and live.
