Introduction: Launched in India, in 2008, at the same time Suzuki Auto re-entered the SA market, it was christened the Maruti Suzuki Swift DZire, and just like the Swift, the sales took off, thanks to the added convenience of a boot. The Swift, an already established and trusted name in India did extremely well in the land of the IPL and as we know in sunny South Africa, the Swift has literally flown off the shelves too. In India, Suzuki sells a Dzire every two minutes, largely due to its affordability, quality, comfort, space and economy on offer, but even more so, due to its extensive dealer network. So, does South Africa, offer the same network and back up that one would expect from a Maruti made vehicle? With 110 dealerships countrywide providing in depth Suzuki knowledge and servicing, you can be assured that Suzuki means business. Continuing from their commitment to parts and servicing, come next year, Suzuki Auto SA will move offices, to a ‘custom-designed’, 24 507m² facility, which will include 2 900m² of office space and 19 100m² of warehousing, in Longlake Logistics Park in Gauteng. The firm’s new SA headquarters will also feature such amenities as boardrooms, training facilities and a workshop, to name but a few.
Engine/ Economy/ Drive/ Comfort: The 1.2-litre, 3-cylinder petrol unit, delivers 60 kW and 112 Nm of torque, which pleasingly provided a zooty drive, when using the revs and gears to their advantage. The manual 5 speed gearbox, was smooth and the distinct throaty sound coming from the engine when the pedal hit the metal, was really awesome. With a fuel tank size of 37 Liters and a claimed 4.4 Liters per 100 kms, this is a definite win for any new car buyer looking to save money on fuel. I understandably did more, due to my constant need to put my foot flat so that I could hear the engine getting all guttural, with a resultant 6.0 Liters per 100 kilometres, which is still excellent.
Features: The Dzire shares many of the same features as the Swift but thankfully takes safety to a new level when compared to the Swifts three-star rating. The new Suzuki Dzire scored a five-star result for adult and four stars for child occupant safety, smashing its previous scores of two out of five, for both adults and children, out the stadium. It also comes standard with best-in-class safety features such as, EBD, ABS, ESP, Brake Assist function, six airbags (front, side and curtain) and rear ISOFIX anchors. All occupants also have access to three-point seatbelts (two front, three rear) with audible/visual reminders. The standard Android/ Apple car play connected super-fast to my cell phone, which was superb and personally a something that I do notice especially when very slow on some other manufacturers - In today’s modern work, there is no excuse for slow connectivity. The rear-view camera with PDC works well and is crystal clear on the close to 18 cm infotainment touch screen. An A type usb port is found in the front centre console of the GL+ and a 12 V socket, along with 2 well positioned cup holders. I love the rear air-conditioning vent, and two type A USB ports. Keyless entry is standard along with an aircon that chills the interior in no time, a speedo cruise, a multi-functional steering wheel, auto engine on/ off mode and plus many more!
Interior/ Exterior/ Boot: Space, comfort and durable plastics mix well together to give the interior cabin a relaxed and practical feel. This compact sedan has got the looks and the ebony black front grille with a chrome accent, halogen projector headlamps, and 15-inch black alloy wheels, give the vehicle some added flare. Other exterior highlights include electric folding side mirrors with integrated indicators, a shark-fin antenna, and T-shaped LED taillights connected by a chrome strip. The “nice to have” size boot of 378 Liters was decent and was able to hold enough luggage and groceries for a weekend away for four well organised and street savvy adults. With a minimum ground clearance of 145 mms, it’s not going to allow you to drive in Moremi but has enough room to spare the undercarriage when hitting some of those district roads, that are beautifully scattered across the Drakensberg.
Price/ Warranty/ Service Plan: R246900, with a 5-year/ 200000 km manufacturer warranty and a 4-year 60000 km service plan with 15000 km service intervals. In Summary: Would I buy one? Oh yes, without a doubt, along with many South Africans and I am sure that many Uber drivers will find this ride very appealing too! If you are budget conscious and respect your hard-earned money, then the Dzire is most certainly worth a look. This is a car that can suite all age groups and if you are after a vehicle with an excellent economy rate, which has loads of space and decent comfort levels, then the Dzire could very well be your next stylish sedan.
*This article is written in my opinion only. For detailed information on the specs, please contact Suzuki SA*
