VEHICLE REVIEW
BY BYRON LUKAS
SUZUKI
The Suzuki Grand Vitara GL is a compact SUV that focuses on comfort and practicality rather than unnecessary drama.
The Suzuki Grand Vitara is the kind of SUV that understands its job. After spending a week with the top-tier GL model in Cape Town, including time on the N1, it became clear where this vehicle fits. The Grand Vitara sits firmly in the compact SUV space, aimed at buyers who want something practical, comfortable, and efficient for everyday driving, with just a touch of rugged personality.
From the outside, the Grand Vitara GL has a clean, modern design. It doesn’ t try too hard to look aggressive, but it still has enough presence to stand out in traffic. The bold front grille, LED projector headlamps, and smart alloy wheels gives it a more premium feel than you might expect in this class, while the overall shape still manages to keep things neat and practical.
Step inside, and the cabin is simple but well put together. The GL trim is the higher specification, so you get a more refined interior. The dashboard layout is straightforward, with controls that don’ t require a long learning curve. The infotainment screen sits in the centre and supports modern connectivity features, such as smartphone integration, which is expected in this segment.
Comfort is one of its strongest points. The seats are supportive enough for daily commuting and longer drives. There is decent space in the front and
“ On the road, the Grand Vitara GL feels settled, predictable, and tuned more for comfort than sportiness.”
rear, making it suitable for small families or people who often travel with passengers. Rear seat space is adequate, though taller passengers may want a little more room on long journeys. Boot space is also suited to daily life, with enough room for groceries and luggage for a short break.
On the road, the Grand Vitara GL is tuned more for comfort than sportiness. The steering is light, which makes it easy to handle in tight city streets and parking situations. Ride quality is generally smooth, with the suspension doing a good job of absorbing most bumps and uneven surfaces.
This is not a performance SUV, so don’ t expect dragrace speeds or sharp cornering, but it feels stable and predictable, which is exactly what many buyers in this segment want. The 1.5-litre engine delivers measured rather than urgent acceleration.
Fuel efficiency is another strong selling point, with claimed consumption from 5.6L / 100km in a market
86 INBOUND SA / JULY 2026