Fuss-free driving from Suzuki Vitara

15 May 2026

Ian Lamming approaches a state of existential nihilism behind the wheel

This is a tale of nothingness but that’s a good thing.

For this week nothing has happened, at least nothing untoward, and the hundreds of miles covered have been done so in such a fuss-free manner that they barely registered at all.

It struck me at the end of it that it’s often the negative things about a car that stand out and the fact that absolutely nothing did with the latest Suzuki Vitara is a true strength of the vehicle.

Nothing irritated me, whereas in the weeks that preceded it, which were dominated by electric vehicles, plenty did.

With the Vitara there was no hassle of charging that plagues the EV genre and no hint of the annoyance associated with navigating touchscreens.

Sometimes there is just too much to do in the week to faff about with technology and you just appreciate an easy ride, a haven from the rigors of modern life.

Vitara provides this and the lack of stress that comes with driving one leaves me much less tired at the end of a busy day – it really is noticeable and means I don’t fall asleep and dribble through my favourite programmes.

The Suzuki SUV is a no nonsense, immensely capable and thoroughly reliable motor. You don’t give it a second thought, you simply get in it and arrive at journey’s end as if by magic.

That’s because it takes care of every element of the drive nonchalantly, with minimum input from the driver, indulging all inside with the most comfortable of rides.

This particular model comes with the excellent Boosterjet engine, a refined 1.4 litre four cylinder hybrid which packs a turbocharger for extra poke. It is quiet, willing and economical, offering 50MPG+ without even trying.

It is coupled to a new-for-this-year six-speed fully automatic transmission with conventional torque converter which also offers paddle shift control with levers located behind the steering wheel. It makes seamless changes and the kick-down is willing if you need extra power to make safe overtakes.

The capable powerplant is complemented by proficient suspension courtesy of MacPherson struts up front and positive, well-weighted power steering. It corners with composure and high levels of grip so if you are in the mood it’s fun and rewarding to drive down a country road.

Brakes are powerful and backed by ABS, of course, and there are all manner of other electronics under the skin to keep you safe and heading in the right direction.

And all the time driver and passengers are cocooned in a very pleasant environment, which is bathed in natural light thanks to large windows and panoramic sunroof.

There is a touchscreen but it is only there for ancillary functions (infotainment and satnav) which can be set while stationary and left alone for the rest of the journey.

Primary functions are on knobs and buttons, easy to locate and there to get on with their respective jobs with little thought from the driver – just as it should be.

Comfort levels are high and the seating position lofty and imperious. That improves the view and makes manoeuvring a doddle as you can easily see the vehicles extremities. There’s also the added bonus of beepers and a reverse camera for parking.

So my state of nothingness is a real boon on this occasion and far from having nothing to say there is plenty to report about the virtues of this sure and steadfast SUV.