The Suzuki Vitara Cabrio (ET, TA) represents a unique offering from the Japanese automaker, primarily marketed in Europe and other international markets between 1990 and 1999. This compact SUV distinguished itself with a fully retractable soft-top, blending the practicality of a four-wheel-drive vehicle with the open-air enjoyment of a convertible. While not officially sold in the United States, the Vitara Cabrio exemplifies Suzuki’s engineering prowess and its ability to cater to niche markets. It’s important to note that the “Vitara” name itself has been applied to several different Suzuki models over the years, with this particular generation being a distinct body style within the broader Vitara lineage.
Suzuki Vitara Cabrio: A Detailed Overview
The Vitara Cabrio (ET, TA) was built upon the chassis of the second-generation Suzuki Vitara, a vehicle already known for its robust four-wheel-drive capabilities. The Cabriolet version, however, focused on a more recreational and lifestyle-oriented appeal. It offered a compelling alternative to traditional SUVs, particularly for drivers seeking a vehicle that could handle both on-road and light off-road conditions while providing an open-top driving experience. The model was available with a range of engine options depending on the market, but the 1.6-liter 16V (ET) engine, producing 97 horsepower, was a common configuration.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Suzuki Vitara Cabrio 1.6 16V (ET) is a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine, designated the G16B. This naturally aspirated engine delivers 97 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 132 Nm (97.36 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4,000 rpm. While not a powerhouse, the engine provides adequate performance for its intended purpose, offering a balance between fuel efficiency and drivability. The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 10.7 kg/Hp, and its torque-to-weight ratio is 7.9 kg/Nm. The engine features multi-port fuel injection and an overhead camshaft (OHC) valvetrain. Power is transmitted to all four wheels via a 5-speed manual transmission, providing enhanced traction in various conditions. The Vitara Cabrio achieves a maximum speed of 152 km/h (94.45 mph). Fuel economy figures are rated at 9.5 l/100 km (24.8 US mpg) combined, with 12 l/100 km (19.6 US mpg) in urban settings and 8 l/100 km (29.4 US mpg) on the open road.
Design & Features
The Suzuki Vitara Cabrio is a three-door vehicle with seating for five passengers. Its defining feature is, of course, the fully retractable soft-top, which provides an open-air driving experience. The body style blends elements of a traditional SUV with the aesthetics of a convertible. The vehicle’s compact dimensions – 3632 mm (142.99 in.) in length, 1630 mm (64.17 in.) in width, and 1665 mm (65.55 in.) in height – make it relatively easy to maneuver in urban environments. Safety features for the era included ventilated disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear, along with hydraulic power steering. The suspension system utilizes a wishbone configuration at the front and coil springs at the rear, providing a comfortable ride. Trunk space is limited to 230 liters (8.12 cu. ft.) with the top up, reflecting the compromises inherent in a convertible design. The vehicle has a kerb weight of 1040 kg (2292.81 lbs.) and a maximum weight capacity of 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Suzuki |
| Model | Vitara |
| Generation | Vitara Cabrio (ET,TA) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 16V (ET) (97 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1990 year |
| End of production | 1999 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet, SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 12 l/100 km (19.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8 l/100 km (29.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9.5 l/100 km (24.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 152 km/h (94.45 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.7 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.9 kg/Nm |
| Power | 97 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Torque | 132 Nm @ 4000 rpm (97.36 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | G16B |
| Engine displacement | 1589 cm3 (96.97 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 75 mm (2.95 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90 mm (3.54 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.2 l (4.44 US qt | 3.7 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 5.3 l (5.6 US qt | 4.66 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1040 kg (2292.81 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Max load | 460 kg (1014.13 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 230 l (8.12 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 42 l (11.1 US gal | 9.24 UK gal) |
| Length | 3632 mm (142.99 in.) |
| Width | 1630 mm (64.17 in.) |
| Height | 1665 mm (65.55 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2200 mm (86.61 in.) |
| Front track | 1395 mm (54.92 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1400 mm (55.12 in.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 205/70 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
The Suzuki Vitara Cabrio (ET, TA) remains a distinctive vehicle, appreciated by enthusiasts for its unique combination of practicality, off-road capability, and open-top fun. While not a mainstream success in many markets, it carved out a niche for itself and continues to be a sought-after vehicle among those looking for a compact, versatile, and enjoyable driving experience.
