Suzuki Auto South Africa has announced that the new Grand Vitara is heading to SA, with the local arm of the Japanese automaker confirming its box-fresh flagship SUV will arrive here in the first quarter of 2023.
According to the firm, the Grand Vitara “will introduce a host of new technologies and a new level of luxury” to its local line-up. These include Suzuki’s ‘Smart Hybrid Vehicle’ (SHVS) tech and AllGrip Select all-wheel-drive system.
Starting with the former, SHVS incorporates an integrated starter generator instead of a conventional alternator. This set-up also regenerates energy (sent to a “long-life” 12 V lithium-ion battery) when the car decelerates. The firm says this tech assists the internal combustion engine during “normal” and “more demanding” driving conditions. It also increases fuel efficiency.
Speaking of the engine, the Grand Vitara will be available with a duo of engine options. This includes the “all-new” K15C unit — a 1.5-litre dual-jet engine with the SHVS mild-hybrid tech mentioned above — and the company’s familiar 1.5-litre K15B powertrain. The K15B engine is available with a manual and automatic transmission. The mild-hybrid unit is exclusively coupled with an automatic gearbox. This model also features AllGrip all-wheel drive.
Suzuki says its new range-topping SUV will offer “class-leading” features. These include a 9.0-inch high-definition touchscreen infotainment system, a 360-degree surround-view camera set-up, a head-up display and wireless smartphone charging for the top-spec variants.
All models will feature LED projector headlamps. Climate control, cruise control and six airbags will be present, too, as will keyless entry and push-button start.
