Suzuki Dzire scores high on fuel economy and fun
Let’s start with the number we all couldn’t believe. 4 point 7. That’s how many litres the little Suzuki Dzire used for the first 100 or so kilometres of driving. That’s lower than the claimed output of 4.9l/100 And in that time I had to try hard to practice restraint as I felt like the peppy little engine was begging to be revved all the way to the 6200rpm redline. Even when driven hard the car still managed around 5.4l/100
Now I’m not usually a person that harps on about fuel economy figures, but for those serious about considering a car like this fuel consumption has to be on top of the list. The Dzire, is, of course, the booted brother of the new Swift. The proportions of the sedan aren’t nearly as attractive as the Swift, so this would mean that whoever buys this car needs that boot pretty badly. Having said that, with around 378 litres of boot space but is significantly smaller than its competitor, the Honda Amaze, which boasts 510 litres, but costs almost R20 000 more.
From behind the wheel, everything falls to hand and although quite basic, the controls are all functional and easy to use. The Bluetooth requires the car to be completely stationary even though I tasked a passenger with setting it up, a tiny annoyance in an otherwise user-friendly environment. The front and rear passengers commented on how spacious the car was thanks to the noticeable 55mmm extra space between the front and rear seats.
I travelled a total of over 500km in the little Suzuki. From twisty turns, which Dzire performed surprisingly well on, to stop and start traffic, which the car was more suited to. Highway driving was possible at 120km/h even with 3 passengers however with a strong cross-wind blowing the car suffered a tad. I think this would be as extreme as a situation gets fo the little car to cope with. And it did, but it certainly wasn’t ideal.
The now Suzuki range with this 1.2 engine feels like the modern spiritual successor to the Toyota Tazz. Fuss-free utilitarian transport that is surprisingly fun and easy on the pocket, starting at R161 900.
The 61kW engine makes just 113Nm of torque but as with the rest of the Suzuki range, Collin Chapman’s philosophy rings true with performance being derived from low weight. Behind the wheel, one would never believe this car makes just 61kW. The steering is lively and light at the same time and gearbox and clutch action predictable and positive. Just like the rest of the Suzuki range, Dzire is a total hoot to drive, and thankfully comfort doesn’t suffer for the sake of handling. It certainly is one of the most balanced compromises when it comes to driving fun and everyday comfort.
Verdict
Does a car like this need to be this fun to drive? Probably not. But this level of engagement, from behind the wheel and at the sales counter is what has put Suzuki on the map as it has been in South Africa. This is a serious car for those serious about buying an entry-level vehicle. For my lifestyle, I’d go hatchback back, which I’ll be driving over the coming vacation period. But for those that are adamant on a boot, the Dzire makes a serious play for the best compact sedan on the market.
Suzuki Dzire 1.2GL is priced at R178 900 as tested
