Suzuki Vitara prices & specs

Suzuki Vitara tipped our scales at 1124kg, against a class average of 1250kg

This is the only £18k car we can think of with LED headlights as standard

Upward-curving swage line looks exaggerated on a car that's otherwise so straight-edged

Silver faux skid plates are fitted to all trim levels. But with the Rugged pack, they're replaced by real, protective skid plates

Silver roof rails appear on all models but strike a much greater contrast against the black or white roof of a two-tone car

Visibility is pretty standard for a small crossover, but higher and better than in a normal supermini

Front seats are very comfortable, but all that budget plastic does take the edge off the cabin

Back row offers decent leg room but limited head room for full-sized adults

Adjustable floor means there's no loading lip to negotiate. Boot capacity is 375 litres - slotting between a Nissan Juke and Skoda Yeti

Vitara's infotainment system is very good. Menu systems are easy to understand and the touchscreen is commendably sharp

These controls win the testers' award for clarity and simplicity, although some rivals benefit from dual-zone climate control in range-topping form

The 1.6-litre petrol variant is quicker than Suzuki's performance figures suggest

Vitara's low kerb weight enables brisk progress and competent dynamics

The compromise between handling and comfort in particular is well judged. Body roll is nicely regulated

The Vitara is solidly built in Suzuki's image - and that's fine with us