Tag Archive: suzuki

Hybrid Automatic variants of Vitara & S-Cross launched

March 6, 2021

We’re pleased to announce the introduction of new automatic hybrid variants of Vitara and S-Cross. These new models complete the transition of the Suzuki line-up to 100% hybrid as standard. 

 Vitara and S-Cross models with 48V hybrid 6-speed automatic tranmissions are now available to order and deliveries will start later in March. The Motability Scheme will be open for new applications on these models in the week commencing 8th March.

Vitara 

The current 0% APR and Suzuki Contract Hire campaigns  apply for all Vitara  automatic variants in March. Plus,  the £2,000 finance deposit contribution  and £2,000 cash savings for non-finance customers  available  on Vitara SZ-T also apply to the automatic version.

The Vitara SZ-T automatic  model now includes keyless entry/start as standard (not available on SZ-T manual).

Model Transmission Insurance Price
1.4 Hybrid SZ-T AT 6 Speed Automatic 23A £24,599
1.4 Hybrid SZ5 AT 6 Speed Automatic 23A £26,599
1.4 Hybrid SZ5 ALLGRIP AT 6 Speed Automatic 4×4 23A £28,399

Single-tone metallic paint £500. Dual-tone metallic paint £800.

Discover Vitara > 

S-Cross 

The S-Cross headline campaign  with £3,250 customer saving  is available on automatic variants,  together with the current 5.9% APR and Suzuki Contract Hire offers.

Model Transmission Insurance RRP Price (incl. saving)
1.4 Hybrid SZ-T AT 6 Speed Automatic 22D £25,599 £22,349
1.4 Hybrid SZ5 ALLGRIP AT 6 Speed Automatic 4×4 22D £29,399 £26,149

Single-tone metallic paint £500.

Discover S-Cross > 

Suzuki Jimny review by Paul Beard

January 20, 2021

We loaned our Suzuki Jimny demonstrator to motoring writer and loyal Tracks customer, Paul Beard. Here’s what he had to say:

“Over the years, the Suzuki Jimny has become a motoring icon and actually traces its roots back half a century to the first LJ variant launched in 1970. The latest version of Suzuki’s evergreen offroader made its much-anticipated debut here at the start of 2019, with a much boxier design that has been likened to Mercedes’ G-Wagen and Land Rover’s original, and now defunct, Defender – icons in their own right. It is a diminutive version of these of course but also costs a lot less. Don’t think that the cheaper price tag and smaller size makes the Jimny any less capable; it has enormous off-road ability and is renowned in its sector.

This particular car, which was very kindly loaned to me by Tracks Suzuki, Exeter for the weekend, is clothed in a very sharp ‘Brisk Blue’ coat of paint which really stands out, gaining a number of approving looks and comments from friends and passers-by. When I parked in the supermarket car park, a 2004 Jimny pulled in next door and the driver commented what a lovely car the new model was and said “Want to do a swap?” – he had owned his since new and still loved it. That’s the thing with the Jimny, it has a large loyal following and appeals to all sorts of people and for many different reasons. The exterior design, as I mentioned, is boxy and now has a really sharp appearance where the outgoing model was a bit rounded and out of date looking. In this the higher SZ5 spec, you get LED headlights with power wash, rear privacy glass, 15″ alloy wheels and heated mirrors. This being Tracks’ demo car, they wanted to up the spec to show what is achievable, so the wheels and roof are painted black, there are side window air deflectors, silver front bumper and side sill trims and most noticeably, of course, are those fantastic looking BF Goodrich All-Terrain tyres. For my review, I kept to roads but actually found it more pleasurable an experience than I expected. There are some drawbacks though, as we will discover.

Jimny is a three-door car and so the doors are wider and access to the driver’s seat is easy. Once safely ensconced, you realize what a great little cabin this is. Admittedly, there isn’t a huge amount of elbow room, especially when two up but you do sit high up and get a great view across the fully visible bonnet. The seats are comfy and heated for those chilly starts and it is easy to get an ideal driving position; all controls fall easily to hand too. In front of you is an easy to read dash cluster that looks quite retro with its two square bezels surrounding the speedo and rev counter and the orange on black numbers. In the middle, there is a really handy touchscreen infotainment system and this includes sat-nav, DAB radio and shows what the optional rear camera sees. A chunky, leather-clad, three-spoke steering wheel houses controls for cruise control, volume and telephony. Storage on the other hand is not great, with narrow door bins, small glovebox and a token tray in front of the two gear levers. On the flip side of this though is that as accessing the rear seats is very tricky, unless you are a contortionist, and even if you do complete this task, the experience is not one of comfort, why not keep the seats folded and have a nice big load area for shopping, or animal food, or horse tack, or a dog, or… you get the picture!

You don’t buy a Suzuki Jimny if you want to go fast: top speed is 90 MPH and the 0-60 dash takes about 14.5 seconds. However, if you like sitting up high in a rugged little 4×4 that will take you on many adventures, on the road and off, this is the car for you. With its brick-like styling, permanent four-wheel drive and low ratio gears, all conspiring to increase the amount of fuel required, the average of 36 MPG isn’t too bad at all and CO2 at 178 is bearable. Out on the open road, I found the Jimny to be a fun little car that is easy to drive and you soon get used to the gear whine that comes through. With the chunky tyres, potholes and bumps are easily soaked up and the ride is not bad considering what sort of car this is; the steering has a good feel but is not greatly communicative. Roll in corners is to be expected and is certainly present; again though it could be worse. I was impressed with the braking: there is a solid feel under your foot and competent stopping power when required. This is a more robust feeling car than other Suzukis but then it needs to be bearing in mind the off-road capability that allows you to pretend you are a mountain goat! This is achievable thanks to Suzuki’s All Grip permanent four-wheel drive system and low transfer box.

Basically, I loved this little Jimny. It was funky, cheeky, stylish, fun and stands out in the crowd due to the lovely blue paint scheme, more muted colours are available if you don’t want to be so conspicuous, and square design. On the flip side though, storage is not great, it only has two doors, it’s not that economical and it’s a bit noisy at times – not terribly practical then. If these niggles don’t worry you and you want something a bit different that can take you just about anywhere you want and parks in space that most cars would struggle with, this could be the car for you. There are still cars available but you’ll have to be quick if you want one. I am very grateful to Tracks Suzuki, Exeter for the loan of this Jimny.”

View Jimny stock  >  

Suzuki launches the new Across

October 20, 2020
  • Suzuki’s first new model to launch under the collaborative agreement between Suzuki Motor Corporation and Toyota Motor Corporation.
  • On sale in the UK in November 2020
  • Suzuki’s first plug-in Hybrid vehicle offering CO2 emissions of just 22g/km (WLTP)
  • Weighted combined WLTP fuel consumption of 282mpg (1litre/100km)
  • Combined power output of electric motors and petrol engine of 306HP.
  • Class leading EV range of 46 miles
  • 0-62mph in 6 seconds
  • One very high specification model available which includes E-Four electronic 4×4 system, leather seats, heated front and rear seats, heated steering wheel, Dual Zone Automatic Air Conditioning, auto function opening tailgate and 9” multimedia touchscreen
  • Very limited supply availability in the first full year
  • Priced at £45,599
  • Low Company Car BIK Banding of 6 per cent. (2020/2021)
  • Metallic and Mica Paint available as a no cost option from a choice of six colours

Suzuki is launching the new Across in Autumn 2020, a robust and sporty SUV equipped with a sophisticated Plug-in Hybrid system and E-Four electronic 4×4, delivering uncompromising performance and efficiency with the capability and styling of a full-fledged modern SUV.

The Across is the first model supplied from Toyota Motor Corporation under the collaborative business agreement between Toyota and Suzuki. UK sales are set to start in November 2020 and followed soon after by the second new collaborative model, Swace, which is based on the Corolla Estate Hybrid and manufactured in the UK.

Striking SUV design
The bold and sporty design of the Across conveys confidence from every angle. Robust polygonal motifs across the body form a bold physique that is further highlighted by characteristic SUV wheel arch mouldings, a sporty large open grille and a front bumper with a prominent silver under garnish that helps to express the car’s all-round capabilities.

Further key features include sophisticated LED headlamps with a bi-beam projector (combining low and high beams) and an LED DRL. Premium quality 19-inch alloy wheels are fitted as standard with black gloss coating and distinctive polished face.

Storage space
While cabin space is designed for ample comfort in both the first and second rows, there has been no compromise in luggage space. The large 490-litre* luggage compartment provides plenty of space to store luggage for a wide range of lifestyles and purposes. For added versatility, the right-hand side of the luggage compartment is equipped with a mains voltage (220V) electrical outlet and 12V accessory socket.

Body colours
The Across is available in six different colours – White Pearl Crystal Shine, Silver Metallic,  Attitude Black Mica, Sensual Red Mica, Grey Metallic and Dark Blue Mica.

(Data correct as of October 2020)

Cutting-edge Plug-in Hybrid performance
The Plug-in Hybrid system in the Across provides unparalleled fuel economy and smooth acceleration, with CO₂ emissions of just 22g/km**.

At the core of the Plug-in Hybrid system is a powerful front electric motor that delivers vigorous torque at low speeds and combines with a powerful 2.5-litre petrol engine for rapid acceleration at higher speeds.

With maximum output of 134kW and 270Nm of torque, the front electric motor draws its energy from an 18.1kWh (50.9 Ah) high capacity lithium-ion battery mounted beneath the floor. This provides a class leading EV range of 75km (46.6 miles).

Engine
Paired to the electric motor is the A25A-FXS Dynamic Force engine, which functions as a charger for the battery and provides power assistance to the electric motor during high-speed driving if required. Designed to deliver both high output and excellent fuel efficiency, the engine features a long stroke and high compression ratio, and both direct cylinder fuel injection (DI) and port fuel injection (PFI) that vary depending on driving conditions to raise output and fuel efficiency while lowering emissions.

The Plug-in Hybrid system is equipped with four modes which are: Default EV mode, Auto EV/HV mode, HV mode, and battery charger mode which the driver can select depending on driving conditions and battery status. In EV Mode the vehicle is driven entirely by the power of the electric motor even under full acceleration. When in Auto EV/HV mode and HV mode, the engine contributes to power delivery when required, such as when the accelerator is pressed strongly. To store electricity for EV mode when the charge is low, the battery charger mode runs the engine to fully re-charge the battery. The powerful lithium-ion battery has 96 cells, voltage of 355V and a capacity of 50.9 Ah.

Advanced 4×4 capability
The state-of-the-art E-Four electronic 4×4 system in the Across provides drivers with genuine 4×4 performance as well as maintaining superior fuel efficiency.

The system features an independent 40kW rear motor that works in conjunction with the front motor to provide front : rear torque variation ranging from 100:00 to 20:80. Benefits of this system include enhanced stability during take-off on slippery surfaces such as snow covered roads, and confident handling when cornering on varying road surfaces.

AWD Integrated Management (AIM)
Central to the E-Four system is the highly sophisticated AWD Integrated Management (AIM), which controls not only drive force distribution, but also engine throttle control, transmission shift scheduling, Electric Power Steering (EPS) assistance and braking, according to the driving conditions.

Trail Mode
Trail Mode is an automatic limited slip differential control feature that ensures the best possible grip and control on slippery surfaces. The system works by applying the brakes to the wheels that begin to lose grip and redirects torque to wheels that maintain grip. The feature also adjusts the throttle and transmission shift pattern to keep the vehicle moving.

Advanced safety and technology features
Fully equipped with the latest smart safety features, the Across offers confidence and peace of mind for both driver and passengers on every journey. Some of the key safety features include driving assist functions such as Pre-Collision System (PCS), Lane Tracing Assist (LTA) and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC), which use a millimeter-wave radar and monocular camera.

*Measured by the German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA) method. **Measured on WLTP combined standard.

Suzuki Swift facelift for 2021

October 19, 2020
  • Third Generation Swift – on sale in the UK and Republic of Ireland since June 2017 and now facelifted for 2021 model year with revised front-end styling, higher standard specification and even further emphasis on safety equipment levels across the range.
  • All models now fitted with Suzuki’s enhanced 12V Hybrid system.
  • Swift Sport 48V Hybrid with 1.4-litre K14D engine added earlier in 2020.
  • Available in SZ-L, SZ-T, SZ5 and SZ5 ALLGRIP grades.
  • New and high specification SZ-L grade becomes the volume selling model for the Swift range with six airbags, Radar Brake Support (automated emergency braking), Adaptive Cruise Control, LED headlights, air conditioning, DAB radio, privacy glass, 16-inch polished alloy wheels, LED daytime running lights and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto smartphone link fitted as standard.
  • New K12D 1.2-litre Dualjet Hybrid four-cylinder engine offers CO2 emissions from just 111g/km (WLTP Regulation) and combined fuel consumption of up to 57.2mpg (WLTP).
  • New Flame Orange Pearl Metallic with Super Black roof dual-tone colour introduced on SZ-T and SZ5, joining two other dual-tone colour options in the range
  • New CVT Gearbox available optionally for SZ-T and SZ5 with 2WD.
  • More than 745,000 sales across 119 Countries since introduction in 2017.
  • Priced from £14,749 for SZ-L model.

INTRODUCTION
Following on from its launch in the Japanese domestic market, Suzuki Motor Corporation unveiled the Swift for Europe at the 2017 Geneva Motor Show as its all new global compact supermini and it has now been facelifted for 2021 with an enhanced 1.2-litre engine and hybrid as standard as well as further standard equipment updates. In addition to its stylish exterior design in a compact size of just 3,845mm long, the Swift  features excellent visibility, a spacious cabin and ample luggage space.

Standard equipment for all models in the range is even more comprehensive than before and the new SZ-L model includes air conditioning, rear view camera, Radar Brake Support with Adaptive Cruise Control, smartphone link for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, DAB radio, leather steering wheel, privacy glass, LED Headlamps, LED rear combination lamps, polished 16-inch alloy wheels and front electric windows. 

The SZ-T adds grey painted 16-inch alloy wheels, Dual Sensor Brake Support, Lane Departure Warning and Prevention, Weaving Alert, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Blind Spot Monitor, Traffic Sign Recognition and rear parking sensors.

SZ5 adds Navigation, 16-inch polished alloy wheels, automatic air conditioning, keyless entry and start, telescopic steering wheel adjustment, rear electric windows and door mirror side turn indicators. Swift is available in one solid colour and six optional metallic colours with three dual tone colours incorporating a Black Pearl roof also available optionally.

A full equipment, pricing and technical specification list is available at the end of this press release.

 

K12D ENGINE TECHNOLOGY 
Suzuki first introduced its 1.2-litre Dualjet technology (K12C) in 2014, this engine is now replaced by the new K12D Dualjet unit which offers greater fuel economy and even lower CO2 emissions. The maximum power output is 83PS with a torque figure of 107Nm at just 2,800rpm. Acceleration time to 62mph from 12.2 seconds. 

HYBRID TECHNOLOGY ACROSS THE RANGE
Fuel efficiency is further enhanced when paired with the self-charging hybrid system powered by a new lithium-ion battery with capacity upgraded from 3Ah to 10Ah to improve energy recovery efficiency.

Available as standard equipment for all Swift models, the upgraded 12V Hybrid system is a compact and lightweight unit that incorporates an Integrated Starter Generator (known as ISG) which acts as both a generator and starter motor, the ISG is belt driven and assists the engine during vehicle take off and acceleration and also generates electricity through regenerative braking.  In situations that require higher fuel use, such as when starting from a standstill or accelerating, the hybrid system helps suppress fuel consumption by providing electric motor assist using electricity generated through regenerative braking.

For the Swift with 2WD and manual transmission the Hybrid system helps Suzuki reach a CO2 emissions figure of just 111g/km (WLTP regulation) plus achieve a fuel consumption figure of 57.2mpg (WLTP) on the combined cycle.

Swift Sport Hybrid with 48V system and new K14D Boosterjet engine was introduced earlier in 2020 and is currently the only self-charging warm hatch model amongst its competitors.

CVT GEARBOX
Suzuki’s CVT powertrain is available as an option on the facelifted Swift SZ-T and SZ5 models with 2WD, and is combined with the 1.2 Dualjet Hybrid powertrain. The CVT system can vary the actual gear ratio continuously and stepless from low-speed to high-speed range depending on the driving conditions. The CVT offers seven step gear programmes and allows improved driveability with reduced shift-shock in comparison with a conventional automatic transmission.

Gear programmes can also be selected manually up or down via steering column mounted paddles.

FURTHER SAFETY ENHANCEMENTS
The Swift SZ-L active safety equipment includes a Radar Brake Support (RBS) system.  When travelling above approximately 3mph and the system detects a risk of collision with an object in front, it warns the driver to apply the brakes. At higher speeds and if it senses the possibility of a collision, it warns the driver with a buzzer and also via a notification on the multi information display. The system warning can also be set for either Far or Near distance via a button on the dashboard.

SZ-T AND SZ5 MODELS
Dual Sensor Brake Support (DSBS)
The advanced forward detection system supports numerous safety technologies, chief among which is collision-mitigating Dual Sensor Brake Support (DSBS). With DSBS, at vehicle speeds from approximately 3mph to 62mph, if the system determines a risk of collision with a forward obstacle, it issues both an audio and visual warning. If there is a high risk of collision with a forward obstacle and the driver panic brakes, the system deploys brake assist, increasing braking force.

Vehicle Weave Warning
When the vehicle is travelling at vehicle speeds of approximately 37mph or above and is weaving from side to side within a lane, the system sounds a warning buzzer and lights an indicator on the instrument panel. This quickly draws the driver’s attention to weaving caused by drowsiness or other factors.

Blind Spot Monitor
Lane changing at speeds above 10mph is now made safer with the addition of the Blind Spot Monitor function. The system has two rear mounted side radar sensors that are capable of detecting vehicles located in or approaching the rear blind spots on either side of the vehicle. Once detected, a warning LED icon is illuminated in the relevant exterior mirror. If the driver ignores it and indicates to change lanes, a flashing LED icon is accompanied by a warning sound alert.

Rear Cross Traffic Alert
At speeds of up to 5mph whilst in reverse, two rear mounted radar sensors are utilised to alert the driver of approaching vehicles on either side when reversing out of car parking spaces. If a vehicle is detected, the driver is given both a visual alert and a warning sound alert. This enables the driver to manouevre more safely out of parking spaces where vision may be obscured.

4WD (ALLGRIP AUTO)
The Swift Facelift adopts Suzuki’s ALLGRIP ‘AUTO’ four-wheel drive system which is available optionally on the SZ5 model with manual transmission only. This is a well proven and simple fully automatic and permanent four-wheel drive layout which transfers additional torque to the rear wheels when required via a viscous coupling. It is also an ideal choice for customers living in rural areas who may need additional mobility across rougher terrain or for crossing slippery surfaces during winter months without owning a more conventional SUV sized vehicle.

With lightweight components and available in combination with the 1.2 Dualjet Hybrid powertrain, Swift ALLGRIP Auto models have impressive fuel economy of 51.7 mpg and low CO2 emissions of just 123 g/km (both WLTP combined).

DISPLAY AUDIO SYSTEM WITH NAVIGATION AND SMARTPHONE CONNECTIVITY
The audio system for all Swift Facelift models has a smartphone link capability, with a large seven-inch touch panel display that enables intuitive operation of selected apps with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto or MirrorLink. SZ5 models also include navigation as standard, while for customers choosing SZ-L and SZ-T an SD card upgrade is available as a dealer option which enables built-in navigation.

Apple CarPlay is the smarter and safer way to use iPhone in the Swift. Apart from making calls it also facilitates receiving directions for optimised traffic conditions, listening to music, safely accessing email, text messages and more.

Tracks signs sponsorship deal with Exeter City Football Club

October 7, 2020

Tracks Suzuki has agreed a 3-year deal with Exeter City Football Club to sponsor the away end, which will now be known as the Tracks Suzuki St James Road stand.

As fans of the club for over a decade and partners in the clubs Heritage Lounge, Tracks were keen to support the club through the challenges brought on by covid-19.

Stephen Ody, managing director of Tracks Suzuki, said: ‘We’re absolutely delighted to announce our sponsorship with Exeter City Football Club. Now more than ever the club needs the support of local business, and as passionate fans for over 10 years, we felt now was the right time to show our loyalty as a club partner. We wish the club every success for the season ahead and can’t wait to watch the team play again at the Park.’

Mark Jenkins, head of commercial at Exeter City FC, said: ‘We have had fantastic support from the Tracks team over the years through their commitment to the club in the Heritage Lounge and we are delighted to sign them as away end sponsors at St James Park. They are another successful family-run business who understand and buy-in to our ethos as a supporter-owned club at Exeter City.’