Our Fleet Test Drive: Suzuki Vitara - 4th report

Date: 08 October 2015   |   Author: David Motton

Why we're running it: To see if a petrol crossover can make sense as a business car, despite having higher emissions than the equivalent diesel. Equipment: Seven airbags, satnav, DAB radio, double-sliding panoramic sunroof, climate control, front foglamps, front and rear parking sensors, adaptive cruise control, Radar Brake Support, keyless entry and start, 17-inch alloy wheels, suede and leather upholstery Options: Rugged pack, which adds front and rear skid plates and a boot protector (£500), metallic paint (£430), detachable tow bar (£351)

We're running the petrol rather than the diesel to see if it stacks up as a sensible alternative for a low-mileage user. With a P11D value some £1500 lower than the diesel and an identical BIK band of 19%, the petrol saves a higher-rate taxpayer £114 a year in tax.

When towing, though, I really missed the extra torque of the diesel. There's not a lot going on at low revs or in the mid range, so frequent gearchanges and a leaden right foot are needed to build speed.

Obviously, towing demands a lot from an engine, but even with four people on board and some luggage in the boot the Vitara's performance is rather steady.

On the plus side, the petrol is more refined than the diesel. So given that I'm not planning any more caravanning trips just yet, I'm happy enough to be driving the petrol..

Verdict
	Ride comfort Styling Panoramic sunroof		Acceleration Unreliable touchscreen response

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