Suzuki launched the new Vitara as a 5 door compact SUV last week, with prices for the entry level petrol powered cars starting at €19,995. You have to spend €3,000 more for the entry level, 1.6 litre turbo-diesel powered version; this is also a two-wheel-drive SUV. Adding the four-wheel-drive AllGrip system, which is only available in the top of the range GLX version, pushes the price up €27,995. Suzuki report that introduction prices will be held until October next.

The new Vitara is the fourth generation of the popular small SUV and comes 25 years after the original model was launched. The new Vitara is built at the Magyar Suzuki factory in Hungary.

Suzuki claims that the new Vitara will have good off-road ability and a higher level of specification than before. The optional ALLGRIP four-wheel drive system with four modes allows the driver to choose a mode to suit the road surface and driving conditions.

The new Vitara with Fiat derived 1.6-litre DDiS diesel engine develops 120bhp and 320Nm of torque and in two-wheel drive with a six-speed manual transmission has CO2 emissions of just 106g/km. Suzuki also claims that the use of more high-tensile steel makes the body lighter and more rigid.

The standard equipment specification level for the entry GL model includes seven airbags, 16-inch alloy wheels, DAB Radio with USB and Bluetooth connectivity, cruise control with speed limiter, auto air conditioning, front and rear electric windows and projector headlamps. The GL+ versions get 17-inch silver painted alloy wheels, rear privacy glass, Smartphone link audio and navigation system.

Moving up to GLX adds LED projector headlights, 17-inch polished alloy wheels, suede seat fabric, keyless entry with start button, adaptive cruise control, radar brake support and panoramic sunroof in addition to the other features of the GL and GL+ models.

Hill Hold Control is standard on all Vitara models and it makes hill starts much easier by preventing the vehicle from rolling backwards for two seconds as soon as the driver removes their foot from the brake to the accelerator pedal.

Hill Descent Control is standard on GLX ALLGRIP models. When the vehicle is travelling down a steep downward slope and engine braking is not sufficient to slow the vehicle, Hill Descent Control will automatically apply the brakes to restrict vehicle speed, thus allowing the driver to maintain full control and concentrate on steering the car safely.