Tag Archive: suzuki

A strong score for Suzuki in latest What Car? Reliability Survey

September 26, 2024

Suzuki has once again earned a strong ranking in the 2024 What Car? Reliability Survey, released today, achieving a notable brand score of 97.75%, just 0.6% behind the top contender. This well-regarded annual survey gathers feedback from owners of vehicles up to five years old, with nearly 30,000 readers from What Car? participating across 31 different manufacturers.

In addition to this recognition, two Suzuki models have secured top positions among the ten most reliable vehicles in their categories. The Vitara (2015-present) shone in the small SUV segment, scoring 97.7%, while the Swift followed closely with a score of 95.7%.

Claire Evans, consumer editor at What Car?, remarked, “Suzuki is consistently in the top five brands for reliability with owners. No wonder, then, that half of the Swift and Vitara owners responding to our survey told us that dependability was one of the things they liked most about their cars.”

Suzuki owners also benefit from extended peace of mind beyond the typical five-year ownership period, thanks to a complimentary warranty of up to seven years. This warranty becomes effective once the initial three-year/60,000-mile manufacturer warranty expires and is contingent on the vehicle receiving its annual service at a Suzuki dealership.

The warranty remains valid until the next qualifying service and can be renewed for a maximum of seven years or 100,000 miles. It covers major components, and if a customer sells their car during the warranty period, it can be easily transferred to the new owner at no additional cost.

Furthermore, Suzuki offers hybrid technology as standard across its entire range, and What Car? noted that hybrid and plug-in hybrid models from all 31 brands are the least likely to encounter issues, with a failure rate of just 19%, despite their more complex engine and electric motor configurations.

Suzuki Offers

Discover our latest offers on the new Suzuki range.

Suzuki Range

Explore the new hybrid Suzuki range.

Car Buying Advice – Suzuki streamlines range to comply with ZEV mandate

July 4, 2024

Suzuki GB has announced it will discontinue four models from its new car range as it prepares to launch new electric vehicles (EVs) next year to comply with the government’s zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) mandate.

That means the end of the road for popular models, including Ignis, Swift Sport, Swace and Jimny LCV – all of which are no longer available for factory order with only a limited number of cars remaining.

The all-new Swift will continue of course, along with Suzuki’s hybrid SUV range – S-Cross, Vitara and Across plug-in hybrid.

“Why is Suzuki stopping these models? The ban on new internal combustion vehicles (ICE) isn’t until 2035?”

The Conservative government announced in 2023 that it would delay the ban on the sale of new ICE vehicles from 2030 to 2035, a measure the newly incumbent Labour government seeks to overturn.

More than anything, this decision has confused motorists, with many unaware the ZEV mandate requires all UK car manufacturers to meet new EV sales targets, starting with 22% in 2024 and rising incrementally over the next 11 years.

Annual ZEV mandate targets to 2035:

“But Suzuki doesn’t have an EV yet… How can they achieve 22% this year?”

In short, they won’t. Manufacturers who don’t meet the quotas face a fine of £15,000 for every non-EV sold outside of the allowance.

The government has rubber-stamped flexibility measures though, allowing brands to bank credits to use in future years  or buy and sell them with other manufacturers who have exceeded or missed their annual EV targets.

In 2024, manufacturers can borrow up to 75% of their annual target, dropping to 25% in 2026, with the idea to help brands with low EV volumes, like Suzuki, during the early stages of the scheme.

“What does the ZEV mandate mean for new Suzuki buyers?”

If you’re considering buying a new Ignis, Swift Sport, Swace or Jimny LCV, you better be quick – some models like Ignis automatic have already sold out.

As the brand enters an era where it must carefully balance hybrid and EV sales ratios, other ICE models will soon become less available and more expensive, as the focus shifts to achieving EV targets over sales targets.

Suzuki plans to release its first fully electric car, based on the eVX concept, in the second half of 2025, with four more EVs added to the range by 2030.

If you have any questions about model availability or the ZEV mandate, please message our team or visit our showroom at Tracks Suzuki Exeter on Alphin Brook Road, Marsh Barton, Exeter EX2 8QF.

Swift eras – Suzuki celebrates four decades of Swift

February 12, 2024

Leading up to the launch of the all-new 2024 Swift this Spring, Suzuki reflects on the 40-year journey of its immensely popular global model and provide insights into its evolution since 1983. This extensive evolution has endowed Suzuki Motor Corporation (SMC’s) engineers with valuable experience and insight into the desires of their customers for a hybrid small car, both in the short and long term. Renowned as experts in small cars, Suzuki has seen Swift sales surpass nine million units since its global introduction in 2004.

1983-1989:

Originally known as the Cultus / SA310 in Japan, the Swift was introduced in 1983 at the Tokyo Motor Show. It entered a new class of cars with larger dimensions and engines compared to Suzuki’s previous models. Early models featured a 1.0-liter three-cylinder engine and leaf spring rear suspension. Later versions boasted a 1.3-liter four-cylinder engine known for its smoothness and fuel efficiency. The UK market saw both three-door and five-door hatchback options, including a sporty 1.3GTi variant.

1989-2003:

This iteration, introduced in the UK in 1989, showcased a wedge-style design and featured independent suspension. It was available with either a 1.0-liter three-cylinder or 1.3-liter four-cylinder engine. The GTi variant, with its powerful engine and lightweight design, earned praise as a pioneering hot hatchback of its time.

2005-2010:

Launched in the UK in 2005, this model marked a significant shift in design and driving dynamics. It was developed with European tastes and demands in mind, featuring sporty yet elegant styling. Available with various engine options, including a potent 1.6-liter Sport model, it garnered popularity for its driving performance and design.

2010-2017:

This version, introduced in the UK in 2010, emphasized fuel efficiency, safety, and driving performance. With advancements in chassis design and engine technology, it offered improved handling and lower emissions compared to its predecessor.

2017-2023:

The latest iteration, launched in the UK in 2017, received a facelift in 2021 with enhanced safety features and a new 1.2-liter hybrid engine. Embodying Suzuki’s commitment to innovation, it offers a stylish exterior, spacious cabin, and advanced technology as standard. The addition of a 48V hybrid option further enhances fuel economy and reduces emissions.

Throughout its evolution, the Swift has remained true to Suzuki’s commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction, making it a trusted choice for drivers worldwide.

Gallery

+

Highest ranking for Suzuki by What Car? readers 

January 16, 2024

Suzuki, recognized as experts in small cars, is delighted to share positive outcomes from the latest What Car? Reliability Survey.

The survey, based on feedback from 21,732 owners of cars up to five years old, inquired about faults, repair duration, and costs over the last two years. Among the 32 car brands and 178 models evaluated, the Swift claimed the top spot in the small car category with an impressive 99.5% score. Only four percent of Swift owners reported issues, all of which were promptly and cost-effectively addressed within a day. An owner expressed, “My Swift has been incredibly reliable; I plan to get another one in a few years.”

In the small SUV category, the Ignis also secured the leading position with a remarkable 99.4% score. Additionally, the Vitara earned a spot in the top 10 with a commendable 96.7% rating. Suzuki as a brand achieved an overall ranking in the top four among the 32 manufacturers assessed, boasting a strong score of 96.9%. Claire Evans, Consumer Editor of What Car?, stated, “For those seeking an affordable and reliable small hatchback or SUV, the Suzuki Swift and Ignis are excellent choices. Owners reported minimal faults, swiftly addressed at no cost.”

Apart from the robust reliability and economical ownership of Suzuki vehicles, the Service Activated Warranty adds further assurance. This warranty, available after the expiration of the three-year/60,000 miles manufacturer warranty, continues until the subsequent qualifying service, extending up to a maximum vehicle age of seven years/100,000 miles, whichever occurs first.

Suzuki unveils the all-new 2024 Swift

December 6, 2023

Suzuki has introduced the latest version of the Swift, marking its fourth iteration. This iconic hatchback has undergone a transformation, evolving into a sleek, intelligent compact car with a modern design, advanced safety features, and a playful driving experience that redefines everyday mobility.

Register your interest

Be first to see the new Swift at our exclusive launch event. Don't miss out, book below.

Choose your time slot
Sending

A beloved choice among global consumers seeking a stylish and enjoyable driving experience, the Swift has garnered numerous awards since its global debut in 2004.

The all-new model builds upon the success of its predecessors, offering not only an enjoyable driving experience but also prioritizing comfort, efficiency, and safety.

As of October 2023, the Swift has been sold in 169 countries and regions, with total sales surpassing 9 million units.

Key features of new Swift

Dramatic redesign

The new Swift showcases a bold exterior and interior redesign, maintaining its signature elements while introducing a fresh look beyond previous models.

Confidence and adventure define the new Swift’s exterior, featuring a piano-black grille, L-shaped signature lamps, rounded shoulder lines, flared fenders, and a floating roof design with integrated rear hatch spoiler.

The three-dimensional rear combination lamps and wide rear bumper contribute to its stable yet playful appearance on the road.

Vibrant colour options

The new Swift offers a palette of eight single-tone and four dual-tone colours, including the eye-catching Frontier Blue Pearl Metallic and Cool Yellow Metallic.

These colour options, particularly Frontier Blue Pearl Metallic, showcase Suzuki’s commitment to vibrant, high-quality paint.

Interior design revolution

The cabin of the new Swift provides a spacious and comfortable driving environment with ergonomic features including heated front seats.

A sporty, dynamic look is achieved through the wraparound dual-tone black and light-grey dashboard, satin plating, and satin dark silver paint accents.

9-inch display audio

The HD capacitive touchscreen offers a quick and accurate response, supporting smartphone linkage for Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™.

Voice recognition, Bluetooth® music playback, and vehicle status information are seamlessly integrated.

New hybrid engine

The new Swift incorporates a 1.2-litre petrol 3-cylinder engine that boasts comprehensive enhancements, resulting in a harmonious blend of improved fuel efficiency and lower emissions, along with increased low-speed torque to enhance responsiveness and overall performance.

The new engine is coupled with a mild hybrid system, contributing to an even more environmentally friendly performance. This hybrid system captures kinetic energy produced during deceleration which supports the engine during acceleration, promoting higher fuel efficiency.

Advanced safety features

  • Dual Sensor Brake Support II (DSBS II) employs radar and a monocular camera to detect potential collisions, issuing warnings and automatically engaging brake assist if needed.
  • Lane Keep Assist (LKA) helps maintain the vehicle’s position in the centre of the lane.
  • Driver Monitoring System (DMS) alerts the driver if signs of drowsiness or distraction are detected.
  • Lane Departure Prevention (LDP), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR), Blind Spot Monitor (BSM), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), and eCall contribute to the overall safety package.

ALLGRIP Auto

The automatic four-wheel-drive system engages when front wheel traction is lost, providing additional traction on slippery surfaces.

Suzuki Connect

Utilizing the vehicle’s data communication module (DCM), Suzuki Connect connects users to their vehicles in real time, offering convenient functions via a smartphone app and the 9-inch display audio screen inside the new Swift.

Gallery

+

The upcoming Swift is set to be available for purchase in the UK in Spring 2024, with additional details on technical specifications and standard equipment to be revealed in the coming months.

Register your interest

Be first to see the new Swift at our exclusive launch event. Don't miss out, book below.

Choose your time slot
Sending