Suzuki has finally brought its best-selling compact SUV, the Vitara Brezza, to South African shores, promising to bite a significant chunk out of the local SUV market thanks to a blend of extensive features and competitive pricing.

Since its launch in India back in 2016, Suzuki has sold more than 600 000 Vitara Brezzas in that country alone, comprising a whopping 23% of the local segment share and 11% of the SUV segment as a whole. Those numbers have been backed up by the 2017 Indian Car of the Year Award, and now it’s South Africa’s turn to try out the high-riding car.

Suzuki South Africa already sells a vehicle with the Vitara badge, but the Vitara Brezza is primarily targeted at the entry-level compact SUV market. The Vitara name is, of course, well-known here in SA, where the Brezza’s predecessors have historically made a name for themselves with their rugged gravel-travel appeal.

The Vitara Brezza is available in two variants, namely GL and GLX. Both models feature Suzuki’s tried and tested 1.5-litre petrol engine - the same one found in the Jimny - producing respectable figures of 77kW of power and 138Nm of torque, mated either to a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic gearbox.

While there is no four-wheel drive option available, the Vitara Brezza does boast 198mm of ground clearance, meaning it’ll be quite comfortable on typical South African gravel roads. Exterior styling includes rugged side mouldings, roof rails, and the ‘floating roof’ design that Suzuki has successfully marketed on the larger Vitara.

Inside, both variants benefit from an all-new, 7-inch touch screen multimedia interface complete with Apple Carplay and Android Auto. A multifunction steering wheel and automatic climate control are real added-value features.

The GLX distinguishes itself with diamond-cut alloy wheels, a leather-clad steering wheel, push-to-start, and an air-conditioned glove box, among several other bonus features. Safety wise, the Vitara Brezza has ABS braking, ISOFIX child seat mounts, front airbags, and an immobiliser system as standard.

The Vitara Brezza is available in six solid colour choices and three two-tone shades as well, and all models come standard with Suzuki’s generous 4-year/60 000km service plan and 5-year/200 000km promotional warranty.

PRICING

The Suzuki Vitara Brezza starts at just R244 900 for the base model. Watch this space - at that price, it’s sure to emulate its Indian success here in SA.