Suzuki Auto is planning the launch of a new flagship – the Grand Vitara – which will become available at the start of 2023.
The new Grand Vitara was unveiled at the Festival Of Motoring recently held at Kyalami with South Africa one of the first countries in the world to show this model after its debut in India during July. This is the first vehicle in the Suzuki/Toyota partnership that will be built in a Toyota factory in India.
One of the many new features on the Grand Vitara is Suzuki’s Smart Hybrid Vehicle by Suzuki (SHVS) technology, a mild-hybrid system that will boost the normally aspirated 1.5 litre petrol engine. Suzuki will also offer a road-biased version of its AllGrip Select All-wheel-drive system on the top-spec model.
The SHVS incorporates an integrated starter generator motor that replaces the conventional alternator, which is designed to deliver additional power to the engine during acceleration. The SHVS also regenerates energy during deceleration for storage in the long-life 12-Volt lithium-ion battery, which is fitted to hybrid versions of the Grand Vitara alongside the standard lead acid battery.
The Grand Vitara will be available in two engine configurations, namely Suzuki’s K15B 1.5 litre powerplant and the all-new K15C 1.5 litre dual-jet motor with SHVS mild hybrid technology. K15B-equipped variants will be available in both manual and automatic transmission options, while the K15C-equipped variants will feature AllGrip AWD paired to an automatic transmission.
AllGrip Select is an electronically controlled four-wheel drive system that allows the driver to choose from four selectable driving modes, namely AUTO, SPORT, SNOW and LOCK selected with a simple push-and-turn dial.
As the new flagship in the Suzuki range, the Grand Vitara will offer features such as a 9” high-definition touch-screen infotainment system, a 360-degree around-view camera system, a head-up display and wireless smartphone charging on range-topping models
Zero Carbon Charge (CHARGE) welcomes the government’s extension of short term fuel levy relief measures aimed at cushioning consumers from rising fuel prices, but cautions that these interventions do not address the underlying structural challenge facing South Africa’s transport economy.
Volvo Cars has started building the fully electric EX60 at its Torslanda factory outside Gothenburg, with first customer deliveries due in early summer.
Changan has unveiled its ambitious “1+4+4+5” global strategy, signalling a determined push to become one of the world’s top ten automotive brands by 2030.
Advertisement
Advertisement
You can't buy happiness but you can buy cars and that's kind of the same thing.
Unknown
JAC Motors South Africa has introduced the T8 2.0L CTi Comfort 4x2 double cab and at R349 900 (VAT included), making it the lowest-priced double cab currently available in the country.
Mazda Southern Africa has refreshed its long-standing Mazda2 range for 2026, introducing styling updates, added technology and improved value for the brands entry level line-up.
Subaru’s all-new seventh-generation Outback has already begun building strong international momentum ahead of its arrival in the local market later this year.
