Test-Driving The 2025 Suzuki Vitara Hybrid

Forbes

16-07-2025

2025 Suzuki Vitara Hybrid Suzuki
The Suzuki Vitara is a dependable and familiar SUV that started life as a compact SUV before evolving through each successive generation.
The latest fourth generation was introduced in 2015. Fast forward 10 years, and we're still on the fourth generation, so what's changed?
Suzuki's given the latest car a nip and tuck, without distorting its cute image. Up front is a fresh grille, a new bumper, and a sporty roof spoiler, and that's it. Its shape remains unchanged, as do most of its underpinnings.
Likewise, it's all very same-y inside, and that's a bit of an issue. Suzuki's attempts to modernise the Vitara by introducing a 9.0-inch touchscreen and wireless smartphone connectivity are hindered by cheap plastics, a dreary dashboard, and mid-2000s graphics.
Suzuki Vitara Hybrid Matthew MacConnell
Rear legroom is generous; however, being 5'11, I didn't have much headroom. This said, there's plenty of space up front for taller passengers. Boot space is also generous at 362 litres, and the rear seats split 60/40, increasing luggage space.
This review focuses on the 1.4-litre mild hybrid six-speed petrol rather than the 1.5-litre self-charging hybrid.
Although it's more focused on efficiency than performance, the 127bhp 173lb ft powerplant does a fine job at hauling the Suzuki Vitara Hybrid's 1,720kg (gross) mass, with 0-to-62 mph taking 10.2 seconds. Out with 'Sport' mode, it'll return a reasonable 52 mpg, although this was closer to 45 mpg when navigating through Welsh countryside traffic.
Suzuki Vitara Hybrid boot Matthew MacConnell
Visibility is superb, thanks to a lofty driving position, large mirrors and windows. You also get a rear-view camera, rear parking sensors and blind-spot monitoring to boot, while upgrading to the Ultra trim, like the one tested here, gets you front parking sensors.
Suzuki Vitara Hybrid rear Matthew MacConnell
Through town, the Vitara's suspension feels firm. Large ruts and drain covers send dull thuds through the cabin, but the car never feels unsettled. Similarly, it's no corner iron, but it goes round bends well enough, and you do get a little feedback through the steering wheel. But it's at its best in towns and on motorways.
The Vitara comes with front-wheel drive as standard, but buyers can opt for Suzuki's AllGrip four-wheel drive system if needed, although it's worth noting this noticeably reduces fuel economy. 2025 Suzuki Vitara Verdict
Unless you want keyless entry, electrically folding door mirrors, front parking sensors and Alcantara trim, I'd recommend sticking with the entry-level Motion trim. You still get a decent amount of kit like 17-inch alloys, automatic air conditioning and headlights, heated door mirrors, adaptive cruise control, and there's no panoramic roof to limit headroom.
Suzuki Vitara Hybrid interior Matthew MacConnell
Other cars, some cheaper, trump the Vitara in quality, infotainment, ride comfort and handling, but few are offered with such a generous warranty. As with many of its rivals, Suzuki offers a three-year 60,000-mile warranty as standard, but visiting an official centre for regular servicing increases the warranty by up to seven years, giving 10 in total.
This said, you shouldn't need to use your warranty much as the Vitara has an excellent reliability rating.
The Suzuki Vitara Hybrid is priced from £27,299 ($36,593).