Suzuki PH to launch Vitara AllGrip this week – Here’s how to catch the reveal

Suzuki Philippines’ (SPH) subcompact crossover, the Vitara, is currently on its fourth generation since arriving here in 2017. As it transitioned to a more lifestyle-oriented character, fans of the model were likely disappointed by two things: the loss of the ladder-frame chassis in lieu of a completely unibody platform, and the lack of an all-wheel drivetrain in favor of a front-drive layout.

The all-wheel drivetrain gives the Suzuki Vitara a leg up over its rivals  

At least one of those glaring oversights is set to be corrected, as SPH announced that it’s finally bringing the Vitara AllGrip variant here. Four years is quite long for a belated apology, but the carmaker is set to make amends to the Philippine market after all, so it’s better late than never.

The newest member of the Vitara range is set to be revealed on Friday, May 28 at 6 p.m., which isn’t an altogether bad way of welcoming the weekend. All you need to do is head on to the Suzuki Philippines Facebook page because that’s where the Vitara AllGrip will be making its Philippine premiere.

This dial will soon be an available feature for the Philippine market 

What’s the fuss about this upcoming model, anyway? Any self-respecting crossover with the Vitara’s heritage deserves more than a modicum of off-road ability. Sure, there’s the Jimny mini SUV, but it’s not exactly generous in terms of both space and ride comfort. Overseas versions of the Vitara have the AllGrip drivetrain as an available option, making it possible for the vehicle to take on a variety of road conditions.

The particular version that the crossover uses is the AllGrip Select full-time all-wheel-drive, which allows the driver to choose between four driving modes. ‘Auto’ places the drivetrain in front-wheel-drive by default, distributing torque to the rear wheels via a viscous coupling when the system detects the front wheels losing their grip. ‘Sport’ mode minimizes mechanical intervention from the traction system, improving acceleration and turning times. 

Four modes allow drivers to tackle different road conditions

‘Snow’ mode fixes the torque distribution at an even 50:50 between the front and rear axles, inspiring more confidence when tackling slippery or unpaved surfaces. Torque is likewise split equally in ‘Lock’ mode, with the added benefit of traction control engaging the brakes on wheels without grip and reallocating that power on the ones that do. The torque reduction control is also minimized, allowing the engine to generate the needed rotational force for powering the vehicle through.

This is distinct from the AllGrip Pro setup on the Jimny, a part-time four-wheel drivetrain that makes use of a transfer case linking the driveshafts to the front and rear differentials. Judging by the promotional image, the Vitara AllGrip will have a slight makeover by way of a revised intake below the grille with a more prominent front scuff plate, as well as additional door guards on the sides. Powering the new variant is the same 1.6-liter gasoline engine rated at 115 hp and 156 Nm of torque.

Watch for the launch of the Suzuki Vitara AllGrip on May 28  

SPH has not released information on pricing so far for the 2021 Suzuki Vitara AllGrip, but expect it to be significantly above the current GLX 1.6 AT range-topper, which is priced at Php 1,158,000. We’ll have to wait for Friday to see the rest of what the latest Suzuki brings to the table.                                

Get a grip on news about upcoming models to our market at Philkotse.com.