
Andy Harris
Motoring and Property Editor
1:00 AM 25th January 2025
cars
Suzuki’s Vitara Gets A Makeover
The 2025 Suzuki Vitara continues to be a compelling option in the compact SUV segment, offering a blend of practicality, efficiency, and value for money. With its recent facelift and technological upgrades, the Vitara aims to maintain its competitive edge in a crowded market.
Exterior and Design
The 2025 Vitara receives a significant exterior refresh, giving it a more modern and dynamic appearance. The front end features a completely reworked grille and bumper, enhancing its road presence.
At the rear, a new upper spoiler and rear window side spoilers add a sporty touch. The SUV now rides on newly designed 17-inch alloy wheels, further elevating its visual appeal.
Two new metallic colour options - Sphere Blue Pearl dual-tone and Titan Dark Grey single-tone - offer additional personalization choices for buyers.
Interior and Practicality
Inside, the Vitara maintains its reputation for spaciousness and practicality. The cabin comfortably accommodates four passengers, five at a pinch, with ample legroom and supportive seats ensuring comfort on longer journeys.
The 2025 model sees an upgrade in technology, with both Motion and Ultra trims now featuring a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system. This system includes wireless smartphone integration for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, enhancing connectivity and user experience.
Performance and Driving Experience
The Vitara continues to impress with its driving dynamics. Despite its SUV stance, it offers responsive steering and good front-end grip, making it surprisingly agile for its class. The suspension is well-tuned, absorbing road imperfections effectively and providing a comfortable ride.
Two powertrain options are available for 2025:
1. A 1.4-litre Boosterjet turbocharged petrol engine with 48V mild hybrid system, paired with a manual transmission.
2. A 1.5-litre full hybrid version with an Automated Gear Shift (AGS) transmission, offering the convenience of automatic shifting.
The mild hybrid system provides a smooth and efficient drive, while the full hybrid option offers improved fuel economy and the ability to run on electric power for short distances.
My test car for the week was the 1.4 Boosterjet, which proved to be a spritely performer. A slick six-speed manual gearbox and Suzuki’s well known ALLGRIP all-wheel-drive system completed the package. The latter allows the Vitara driver to venture off the beaten track with confidence, as I did. However, it’s a real boon in snowy or wet conditions too.
Efficiency and Running Costs
Suzuki has made significant strides in improving the Vitara's efficiency for 2025. The manual transmission models with 2-wheel drive now achieve an impressive 53.2 mpg (WLTP combined), a 9% improvement over the previous model.
Full hybrid models with 2WD and AGS transmission see a 6% improvement, reaching 56.4 mpg. CO2 emissions have also been reduced, with the 1.5-litre full hybrid Motion model now emitting just 113g/km, down from 119g/km.
These improvements in efficiency, coupled with Suzuki's reputation for reliability, should translate to low running costs for owners. I recorded 48.9mpg in mixed use, impressive I thought.
Safety and Technology
Safety has been a priority in the 2025 update, with both Motion and Ultra grades now equipped with advanced driver-assist technologies as standard. These include Lane Keep Assist, Intelligent Speed Control, and a Driver Monitoring System.
The Dual Sensor Brake Support system has been enhanced, now using a combination of millimetre-wave radar and a monocular camera for improved collision mitigation. The inclusion of eCall for emergency assistance adds an extra layer of safety.
These upgrades should help maintain the Vitara's strong safety credentials, although it's worth noting that its previous five-star Euro NCAP rating from 2015 has now expired.
Pricing and Value
The Suzuki Vitara continues to offer good value for money, with a starting on-the-road price of £26,949.00 for the 2025 model. Suzuki's new seven-year warranty (subject to continued servicing at an official centre) adds to the Vitara's appeal, providing peace of mind for long-term ownership. My Ultra ALLGRIP test car weighed in at £30,449 on the road.
Verdict
The 2025 Suzuki Vitara builds on its predecessors' strengths while addressing some of their weaknesses. It remains a practical, well-equipped, and now more efficient compact SUV that offers good value for money. The improved hybrid powertrains, updated technology, and enhanced safety features keep it competitive in a crowded segment.
While it may not be the most luxurious or powerful option in its class, the Vitara's blend of practicality, efficiency, and affordability make it a strong contender for those seeking a no-nonsense SUV. Its improved fuel economy and lower emissions will appeal to cost-conscious and environmentally aware buyers alike.
The Vitara's agile handling and comfortable ride quality continue to be standout features, making it enjoyable to drive both in urban environments and on longer journeys. Overall, the 2025 Suzuki Vitara represents a well-rounded package that should appeal to a wide range of buyers in the compact SUV market. Its combination of practicality, efficiency, and value for money, coupled with Suzuki's reputation for reliability, make it a compelling choice in its segment.
N.B. The latest Vitara is available with a 0% APR PCP finance offer which extends to vehicles registered by the end of March 2025. As an example, a 2WD 1.5-litre Full Hybrid Motion model can be had for just £239 per month over 3 years, with a £6,855 deposit required. An optional final payment can be made to keep the car