increase font size
The second generation Vitara has been 4 years in development.
There's no doubting the popularity of SUVs in New Zealand.
It was Suzuki that launched, in the late 1980s, the first compact SUV – the Vitara, that went on to sell 2.87 million units.
Now comes the second-generation Vitara model – four years in development.
Based on the S-Cross platform, it boasts more interior space than the outgoing Grand Vitara. It's available in five versions with two- or four-wheel drive, two trim levels and a choice of manual or automatic transmission; there should be something to suit all users.
The 1600cc 4-cyl engine pumps out 86kW and around 156Nm torque, driving through either a 5-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission. The 4WD models have the Allgrip system with three modes: Auto (defaults to 2WD and diverts power to the rear axle if slip is detected), Snow (4WD and ideal for slippery or loose surfaces) and Lock (limited slip diff for extreme conditions).
Suspension is coil springs at each corner, with McPherson struts up front and a torsion beam setup at the rear.
All vehicles are shod with weight saving aluminium alloy, spoked wheels and, depending on the level of specification, Hill Hold and Hillside Descent functions are also included in the package.
In the cabin, high tech seems the order of the day, all models having electric windows front and rear, 7 inch touch screen display, navigation and reversing camera. Electrically adjusted door mirrors, on-board computer, and steering wheel controlled functions complete the look.
The LTD version also benefits from an electrically operated panoramic glass sunroof, keyless entry and high grade suede effect upholstery.
Interestingly, the growth of compact SUV's is increasing faster than any other segment in the NZ motor industry, and obviously shows the desire of the public to get off the beaten track, so it looks like Suzuki are onto a winner.
Recently released in New Zealand and a sponsor of New Zealand Fieldays, the JAC (“Jack”) T9’s positioning as a reliable workhorse for Kiwi tradies has been reinforced by the remarkable achievement overseas that shattered a 24-hour Endurance Record for commercial vehicles.
While it wouldn’t be unfair to call the LDV T60 “the poor man’s ute”, a change of distributor in 2023 has seen the brand raise its profile, while the recent arrival of the new LDV T60 Max Plus, will undoubtedly open the door to a wider audience for the brand.
Ford New Zealand has announced the addition of the Everest Tremor as a rugged and capable expansion of its hugely popular SUV family, said to offer improved offroad capabilities, without compromising on towing capacity or on-road comfort.
While the LDV brand has been available in New Zealand for a number of years, it’s typically been recognised as a second tier offering. That has started to change after distribution passed to the Inchcape Group in 2023, who are on a trajectory to improve that public perspective, and in due course, push sales upwards.
While the New Zealand ute market is dominated by three main players, “disruptors” are never too far away.
While the District Field Days brought with it a welcome dose of sunshine, it also attracted a significant cohort of sitting members from the Beehive – as one might expect in an election year.
Irish Minister of State of Agriculture, Noel Grealish was in New Zealand recently for an official visit.
While not all sibling rivalries come to blows, one headline event at the recent New Zealand Rural Games held in Palmerston North certainly did, when reigning World Champion Jack Jordan was denied the opportunity of defending his world title in Europe later this year, after being beaten by his big brother’s superior axle blows, at the Stihl Timbersports Nationals.
AgriZeroNZ has invested $5.1 million in Australian company Rumin8 to accelerate development of its methane-reducing products for cattle and bring them to New Zealand.
Farmers want more direct, accurate information about both fuel and fertiliser supply.
A bull on a freight plane sounds like the start of a joke, but for Ian Bryant, it is a fond memory of days gone by.
OPINION: If you ask this old mutt, the choice at the next election isn't shaping up as a contest of…
OPINION: A mate of yours says we're long overdue for a reckoning on what value farmers really get for the…
