The Suzuki Splash is a supermini hatchback produced by the Japanese automaker Suzuki Motor Corporation between 2008 and 2012. While not officially sold in the United States, the Splash was a significant model in the European market, designed to compete with vehicles like the Fiat Panda, Renault Twingo, and Toyota Yaris. It was a rebadged version of the Opel/Vauxhall Agila, a result of a partnership between Suzuki and General Motors. The Splash aimed to provide an affordable, practical, and fuel-efficient option for urban drivers, emphasizing maneuverability and interior space within a compact footprint.
Suzuki Splash 1.3 DDIS: An Overview
The 1.3 DDIS variant of the Suzuki Splash, equipped with a 75 horsepower diesel engine, was a popular choice in Europe due to its fuel economy and low running costs. The “DDIS” designation signifies Suzuki’s Direct Diesel Injection System, a technology aimed at improving combustion efficiency and reducing emissions. This model featured a particulate filter (DPF) to further comply with increasingly stringent European emission standards. The Splash, in general, was praised for its surprisingly spacious interior given its small exterior dimensions, making it a practical choice for small families or individuals needing versatile cargo space.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Suzuki Splash 1.3 DDIS is a 1.248-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine, designated the Z13DT. This engine produces 75 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 190 Nm (140.14 lb.-ft.) of torque at 1750 rpm. While not a performance-oriented vehicle, the diesel engine provides adequate power for everyday driving, particularly in urban environments. The engine utilizes a turbocharger with an intercooler to enhance power output and efficiency. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 13.9 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in approximately 13.2 seconds. The Splash 1.3 DDIS has a top speed of 165 km/h (102.53 mph). The engine’s fuel injection system is a diesel commonrail, contributing to refined operation and reduced noise. The weight-to-power ratio is 15.5 kg/Hp, and the weight-to-torque ratio is 6.1 kg/Nm.
Design & Features
The Suzuki Splash is a five-door hatchback with a relatively tall and boxy design, maximizing interior space. Its compact dimensions – 3715 mm (146.26 in.) in length and 1680 mm (66.14 in.) in width – make it easy to maneuver in congested city streets and park in tight spaces. The interior is designed with practicality in mind, offering seating for five passengers. A key feature of the Splash is its versatile cargo area, offering 178 liters (6.29 cu. ft.) of space with the rear seats up and expanding to 1050 liters (37.08 cu. ft.) when the rear seats are folded down. Safety features included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and hydraulic power steering. The Splash’s suspension consists of an independent McPherson strut setup at the front and a simpler configuration at the rear. The vehicle rides on 15-inch wheels with tire size 185/65 R15.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Suzuki |
| Model | Splash |
| Generation | Splash |
| Type (Engine) | 1.3 DDIS (75 Hp) DPF |
| Start of production | 2008 |
| End of production | 2012 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 13.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 165 km/h (102.53 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 15.5 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.1 kg/Nm |
| Power | 75 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 60.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 190 Nm @ 1750 rpm (140.14 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Z13DT |
| Engine displacement | 1248 cm3 (76.16 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 69.6 mm (2.74 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.1 l (3.28 US qt | 2.73 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.9 l (6.23 US qt | 5.19 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1160 kg (2557.36 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1530 kg (3373.07 lbs.) |
| Max load | 370 kg (815.71 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 178 l (6.29 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1050 l (37.08 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 45 l (11.89 US gal | 9.9 UK gal) |
| Length | 3715 mm (146.26 in.) |
| Width | 1680 mm (66.14 in.) |
| Height | 1590 mm (62.6 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2360 mm (92.91 in.) |
| Front track | 1460 mm (57.48 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1470 mm (57.87 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 9.4 m (30.84 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE, Front wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS |
| Power steering | Hydraulic |
| Tires size | 185/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
The Suzuki Splash 1.3 DDIS, while not sold in the US market, represented a practical and efficient option for European drivers seeking a compact and versatile hatchback. Its fuel-efficient diesel engine, combined with its surprisingly spacious interior and maneuverable size, made it a popular choice in its segment.
