Suzuki Auto South Africa is expanding its local model line-up with the launch of the fourth-generation Dzire.
What is it?
The small sedan competing in the A-B segment with a strong focus on value for money, the Dzire
shows off the manufacturer’s new three-cylinder engine and its latest ‘HEARTECT’ platform.
Exterior:
The new Dzire has a wide front fascia. Black on entry-level GA models, this standout feature adopts a more upmarket piano black finish on GL+ derivatives and sports a chrome accent for added sass and there are a pair of narrow halogen projector beam headlamps.
At the back, the T-shaped LED tail light clusters, interlinked with a chrome strip on GL+. GA models, ride on 14-inch steel wheels while the GL+ sits on black 15-inch alloys.
Interior:
The new Dzire borrows its interior architecture from the award-winning fourth-generation Swift. This means it features a wrap-around dashboard design with horizontal air vents and centre controls angled towards the driver for improved ergonomics.
Rear occupants are treated to a folding centre armrest with built-in cup holders and directional air vents. Dzire GA and GL+ variants both feature digital air conditioning, USB ports (a type-A/type-C combo in the rear), front/rear loudspeakers, rear parking sensors, hill hold control, electric windows, a height adjustable driver’s seat, manual headlight levelling, central locking with an immobiliser/alarm and a 12V power socket.
Finished with chrome accents, the GL+ adds extra comforts such as cruise control, a multifunction steering wheel, a 7-inch display audio system with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility, a reverse camera, a front type-A USB port, hands-free phone control and a luggage area light.
Capable of seating five, every Dzire model offers 378 litres of boot space.
Engine:
Suzuki’s Z12E 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol engine, which produces 60kW and 112Nm of torque is used in the Dzire. Depending on the model grade, this unit can be paired with either a five-speed manual (with an auto stop/start system) or continuously variable transmission (CVT).
Safety:
All new Dzire models come standard with six airbags (front, side and curtain), side impact door beams, ABS brakes with EBD, brake assist function, electronic stability program, rear parking sensors and rear ISOFIX anchors.
Prices:
1.2 GA 5MT (R224 900), 1.2 GL+ 5MT (R246 900) and the 1.2 GL+ CVT (R266 900).
The South African motor industry has lost one of its longstanding business figures following the passing of Jebb McIntosh, the group chief executive of Combined Motor Holdings (CMH), on Monday, 2 November 2026.
“South Africa’s automotive industry has been AGOA’s largest user, but for the sector the preference has already been largely overridden by the 25% Section 232 tariffs applied on vehicles and components. Losing AGOA adds a further cost to an industry that has already absorbed a significant shock.”
Foton has started building vehicles in South Africa, and the first overseas vehicle manufacturing base of BAIC Group is now in Gqeberha.
Advertisement
Advertisement
I have bad reflexes. I was once run over by a car being pushed by two guys
Woody Allen
MG Motor South Africa used its MG Tech Day and Premium SUV Family launch event to show what is coming to its SUV range. The brand was founded in Britain in 1924, and in 1931 its EX120 ‘Magic Midget’ became the first 750 cc car to exceed 160 km/h.
Tata Motors has expanded its local SUV portfolio with the launch of the all-new Punch. Available in three derivatives, the compact SUV introduces refreshed styling, upgraded technology and six airbags as standard across the range, while also becoming the first Punch sold locally with a turbocharged engine option.
Isuzu Motors South Africa has introduced its all-new seventh-generation N-Series truck range, representing the most comprehensive update to the company's light and medium-duty commercial vehicle line-up in years.
