2019 Suzuki Vitara Series II price and features announced

Suzuki Australia has refreshed its mainstay SUV model the Vitara with the launch of the Series II mid-life update, bringing much-needed improvements in safety equipment and interior quality, along with modest price rises.

The range now begins at $22,490 for the base model 88kW/156Nm 1.6-litre manual, now simply called ‘Vitara’ as the RT-S nomenclature of the outgoing range gets retired. That represents a $500 price jump over its predecessor, while the six-speed automatic option continues to be offered at a $2000 premium.

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Above the entry-level Vitara dwells the Vitara Turbo and Vitara Turbo Allgrip, which replace the pre-update Vitara S-Turbo and Vitara S-Turbo AWD. Retailing for $29,990 and $33,990 respectively, both models are powered by 103kW/220Nm 1.4-litre turbo petrol and equipped with a six-speed automatic only, and jump in price by $1000.

A two-tone exterior colour option has also been made available at an additional cost of $1250, with premium paint in a single colour attracting an extra charge of $500.

Mechanical changes are non-existent, save for fact that the diesel engine option that was available earlier in the Vitara’s life cycle has been deleted for good. Rather, the most notable differences lie on the equipment sheet, with all cars now receiving a soft-touch dash to replace the rock-hard item of ‘series one’ Vitaras, along with a sliding centre console armrest and a 4.2-inch colour trip computer display.

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For the Turbo models, the equipment list is slightly fatter thanks to the standard inclusion of autonomous emergency braking, lane departure warning, weaving alert, adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert. “Premium suede” upholstery is another Turbo model exclusive, and the range-topping Vitara Turbo AllGrip features a panoramic glass sunroof as standard.

Unfortunately, non-turbo Vitaras don’t receive the same safety upgrade due to the technology simply not being calibrated for that 1.6-litre powertrain. Suzuki Australia investigated replacing it with a 1.0-litre turbo model, which is available in European markets with the same level of safety gear as the 1.6 turbo, however it was deemed to not be powerful enough for Australian tastes.

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PRICING

• Suzuki Vitara manual - $22,490
• Suzuki Vitara automatic - $24,490
• Suzuki Vitara Turbo automatic - $29,990
• Suzuki Vitara Turbo AllGrip automatic - $33,990