Well, a lot has changed here, hasn’t it?
I mean, if one drove an Uber for a living, you’d feel your loins girding in anticipation of a go at this point. Just look at those projector headlamps, that bluff nose completing the visage on this all-new rendition of the compact seven-seater from Suzuki.
I’m going to skip ahead and just say it – you could have all of this for just R214,900. Well, most of this, not all – that’s the entry level GA model whereas I’m piloting the GL (manual transmission) for R239,900. A range topper – the GL Auto exists at R254,900 but I reckon the sweet spot for what is undeniably ‘a lot of car’ is the manual car I’m in. You also get electric side mirrors, a rear lamp cluster that looks like they’ve come off a modern-era Volvo SUV.
Clamber aboard and thank you! We asked and Suzuki have listened, giving us a black interior this time around instead of the hearing aid beige of its predecessor. It’s dominated by a touch panel (not touch screen) audio system with USB/Bluetooth and other connectivity options, also operated via the helm.
More importantly, the air-conditioning now extends to the rear which enjoys 70mm more leg room, with plenty of space for third row occupants as well. Also air-conditioned, the ventilated cup holders – a nice touch in a car that will carry many people, most of the time. Also another nice touch, the foldable board in the boot for stowing all manners of things.
Put your foot down and you’ll access the Jimny’s naturally aspirated 1.5 litre – good for 77kw and 138Nm. The drive is familiarly tallboy, this is after all an MPV riding on 15-inch steel wheels, commonly fully loaded with travellers – so that means soft and compliant.
We’ll have to see how the South African buying public responds to Suzuki’s new baby, but it is an honest people mover with generally great build quality and an enjoyable drive. It deserves to make its wat onto many driveways. A good little big car.
Suzuki Ertiga GL Manual Quick Spec:
| Engine | 1.5l, inline NASP 4-cyl |
| Power | 77kW |
| Torque | 138Nm |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Driven Wheels | Front |
| Top Speed | 175kph |
| 0 – 100kph | N/A |
| Average Fuel Consumption | N/A |
| CO2 Emission | N/A |
Pricing:
| Suzuki Ertiga GA | R214,900.00 |
| Suzuki Ertiga GL | R239,900.00 |
| Suzuki Ertiga GL Auto | R254,900.00 |
