2023 Suzuki Grand Vitara with hybrid power makes ASEAN premiere 

Suzuki’s Grand Vitara nameplate stages a comeback in the ASEAN market, in the form of a subcompact crossover with micro-hybrid capability. This latest release follows its initial premiere in India last year as both the Suzuki Grand Vitara and Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder. 

The legend is back - Suzuki Grand Vitara!

Those who might still remember will recall that the Grand Vitara was among the names adopted for the second generation Vitara FT/GT in most international markets, including the Philippines where it sold from 1998 until the third generation JT ended in 2018. For its newest incarnation, the Grand Vitara enters the age of electrification with a different look and enhanced amenities. 

"Currently, there is a movement in trends and needs in the automotive industry with SUVs dominating in Indonesia," said Suzuki Indonesia Sales Marketing Director Matsushita Ryohei. "With a comprehensive and in-depth study, we are innovating to meet these needs by bringing back one of Suzuki's historic SUVs, namely the Suzuki Grand Vitara, which offers a premium SUV equipped with the latest sophisitcated features and and electrification technology so that fuel use will be more efficient."  

Exterior 

The new Grand Vitara measures 4,345mm long, 1,795mm wide, and 1,645mm tall on a 2,600mm wheelbase, making it a smaller package in most respects compared to its predecessor. It also stands 210mm from the ground, an increase of 10mm from the old model. 

It comes in smaller dimensions compared to its predecessor

Suzuki extended the fourth generation Vitara’s platform and used it as the basis for the new Grand Vitara. On the fascia, the front lighting has been split into tri-LED daytime running lights/turn signals on the hood’s leading edge and the main projector units right below, alongside the large polygonal grille with chrome trim.    

The headlamp surrounds seem to be rendered in the same material that makes up the new Grand Vitara’s body cladding, giving the crossover a touch of ruggedness helped by the squarish fenders that house up to 17-inch precision-cut two-tone alloy wheels. 

The exterior lighting's streamlined appearance is evident at the rear 

There’s contrast black roofing that terminates in a spoiler above the rear tailgate glass, underneath which are 3-point LED tail lamps that echo the layout of the DRLs while the reverse lamps and turn signals are arranged vertically.

Interior    

The new Grand Vitara welcomes up to five occupants inside, surrounding them in a cabin clad in black synthetic leather. As with the Indian release, there’s ample cargo space behind the second row seats, while an available panoramic sunroof makes drives breezier. 

Five occupants will be surrounded by a leather and fabric interior 

Ambient lighting is also available in the interior, accompanied by lights on the front footwells as well as the glove box.  

Tech & Safety 

Suzuki retained the large analog speedometer and tachometer dials for the new Grand Vitara, both surrounding a multi-information display. A heads-up display on the dashboard shows relevant vehicle data within the driver’s line of sight, with no need to glance downward at the instrument panel. 

Multiple charging options offer flexibility

A 9-inch touchscreen head unit handles communications, navigation, and infotainment. The standard 12V power outlet and USB port in front are accompanied by a wireless charging pad for compatible smartphones. 

For safety, the new Grand Vitara comes with six airbags complementing 3-point ELR seatbelts, along with anti-lock brakes, electronic stability control, hill-hold control, and parking sensors. An auto-dimming rearview mirror and cruise control are also present, while a 360-degree camera array is offered on the higher-spec GX trim. 

Engine & Drivetrain

The new model carries over the electrified powertrain from the current fourth generation Vitara. This comprises a 1.5-liter gasoline engine helped along by a 12-volt lithium-ion battery powering an integrated starter generator (ISG). 

The new Grand Vitara uses essentially the same 1.5-liter engine found on the Ertiga Hybrid 

Called the Smart Hybrid Vehicle by Suzuki (SHVS), this electrified system is the same one used by the Ertiga Hybrid, rated at 101 horsepower and 137 Nm of torque. The onboard motor allows for engine start-stop capability during extended bouts of traffic as well as energy recuperation to charge the battery when the brakes are applied. Note that Suzuki did not release the Grand Vitara's Intelligent Electric Hybrid or 'full hybrid' version, which remains an India exclusive.  

The front wheels receive the engine’s output via a 6-speed automatic transmission, with paddle shifters that the driver can engage for added control. Handling suspension duties are MacPherson struts and coil springs in front with torsion bars at the rear.         

Pricing 

Suzuki has priced the Indonesia-spec 2023 Grand Vitara at Rp 360 million (Php 1.3 million) for the base GL variant and Rp 390 million (over Php 1.4 million) for the top-spec GX. Suzuki is currently showcasing the new Grand Vitara at the 2023 Indonesia International Motor Show until February 26. 

Here's hoping that the 2023 Suzuki Grand Vitara finds its way to the Philippines soon

Now that the automaker’s latest subcompact crossover has set foot in ASEAN, will the Philippines be part of its eventual destinations? 

Catch more new releases in our region at Philkotse.com.