Suzuki opted to keep the decade-old model in the market for a few more years
- Changes include a redesigned bumper and new wheels
- A new 9-inch infotainment system is introduced
- Available with the same mild-hybrid and full-hybrid powertrains
Suzuki introduced another facelift for the Vitara in the European market, bringing a redesigned face and a new infotainment system, alongside mildly upgraded safety equipment for the subcompact SUV. There are no mechanical changes this time around, with the hybrid and mild-hybrid powertrain options being carried over from the outgoing model.
The fourth generation of the Suzuki Vitara (third-gen Escudo in Japan) is already a decade-old model, having been introduced in 2014. The model received its first facelift in 2018, followed by the introduction of mild-hybrid technology in 2020, and a full-hybrid powertrain option in 2022. The latest update for 2024 is focused on freshening up the exterior and improving the in-cabin technology. Suzuki hopes these upgrades will keep the Vitara relevant in the rather competitive sub-compact SUV segment, at least for a few more years.
More: Suzuki Is Reportedly Working On Smaller And Larger SUVs For India
The 2024 Suzuki Vitara looks instantly recognizable, but a closer look reveals a handful of visual updates. The redesigned front bumper looks cleaner thanks to the slimmer DRLs on the sides and the omission of the fog lights. It also gains an updated grille and a larger central intake with a black-finished surround, reminiscent of a bull bar.
The profile has remained largely unchanged since 2014. Suzuki designers added a new set of “aerodynamically-shaped” alloy wheels and two new color options to the available palette – Titan Dark Gray Pearl Metallic and Sphere Blue Pearl combined with a Cosmic Black Pearl Metallic roof.
The interior started showing its age a few years ago, looking like it came from the ’90s. While the good-old analog instrument cluster remains, Suzuki added a new infotainment system with a 9-inch touchscreen display. The system supports USB, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi connectivity, and is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It also adds remote access to certain vehicle functions via the owner’s smartphone.
As with most Suzuki models in Europe, the Vitara already came with a comprehensive ADAS suite but the updated version gains new and improved systems. More specifically, the subcompact SUV now comes with Dual Sensor Brake Support II, Driver Monitoring System, Adaptive Cruise Control, Traffic Sign Recognition, and Lane Keeping Assist.
Carry-over Electrified Powertrains
Powertrain options remain unchanged, including the mild-hybrid and full-hybrid units. The turbocharged 1.4-liter gasoline engine produces 127 hp (95 kW / 129 PS) with the 48-Volt system adding another 14 hp (10 kW / 14 PS). This configuration is mated to a six-speed manual that can send power to the front or all four wheels (AllGrip Select 4WD).
The other option is the more efficient hybrid setup with a larger 140-volt lithium-ion battery. The naturally aspirated 1.5-liter engine produces 99 hp (74 kW / 101 PS), and the single electric motor adds another 33 hp (24.6 kW / 33.4 PS). The combined output is 115 hp (85 kW / 116 PS) transmitted to the wheels exclusively via a six-speed automatic gearbox.
The 2024 Suzuki Vitara will arrive in European dealerships starting in early summer. Pricing will be announced closer to the market launch.
