The Suzuki Vitara (ET, TA) is a compact SUV produced by the Japanese automaker Suzuki from 1990 to 1995. Representing the second generation of the Vitara line, it built upon the success of its predecessor, offering a more refined and capable vehicle for both on and off-road adventures. While not initially a major player in the North American market, the Vitara gained a following for its affordability, practicality, and surprisingly robust four-wheel-drive system. In Europe and other international markets, it became a popular choice for those seeking a versatile and compact SUV.
Suzuki Vitara (ET, TA): An Overview
The Vitara (ET, TA) was positioned as a versatile vehicle, appealing to a broad range of buyers. It offered a blend of practicality, affordability, and off-road capability that set it apart from many competitors. The model was available in both 3-door and 5-door configurations, with the 5-door version being the focus of this article. The Vitara’s design reflected the styling trends of the early 1990s, with a boxy silhouette and a focus on functionality over outright aesthetics. It served as a precursor to the modern compact SUV segment, demonstrating the growing demand for vehicles that could handle both urban commuting and weekend excursions.
Engine & Performance
The 1.6 i 16V variant of the Suzuki Vitara (ET, TA) is powered by the G16B engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine produces 97 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 132 Nm (97.36 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4000 rpm. While not a powerhouse, the engine provided adequate performance for everyday driving and moderate off-road use. The engine features a multi-port fuel injection system and an overhead camshaft (OHC) valvetrain. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 14 seconds, and 0 to 60 mph is achieved in around 13.3 seconds. The top speed is rated at 152 km/h (94.45 mph). Fuel economy figures are rated at 8.3 l/100 km (28.3 US mpg, 34 UK mpg) combined, with 10.2 l/100 km (23.1 US mpg, 27.7 UK mpg) in urban settings and 7.2 l/100 km (32.7 US mpg, 39.2 UK mpg) on the open road. The engine’s longitudinal front-engine layout contributes to the vehicle’s balanced handling characteristics.
Design & Features
The Suzuki Vitara (ET, TA) is a five-door SUV with a relatively simple, utilitarian design. Its boxy shape maximizes interior space, while the high ground clearance and robust suspension provide good off-road capability. The interior is functional and durable, with seating for five passengers. Features were relatively basic by modern standards, reflecting the vehicle’s price point and target market. However, the inclusion of an anti-lock braking system (ABS) was a notable safety feature for the time. The 580-liter (20.48 cu. ft.) trunk space offers ample room for luggage and cargo. The vehicle’s 15-inch wheels are fitted with 195/80 R15 tires. The hydraulic power steering provides a reasonable level of assistance, making the vehicle relatively easy to maneuver. The Vitara’s all-wheel-drive system, selectable via a transfer case, allows drivers to switch between two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive depending on road conditions.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Suzuki |
| Model | Vitara |
| Generation | Vitara (ET, TA) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 i 16V (5 dr) (97 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1990 year |
| End of production | 1995 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.2 l/100 km (23.1 US mpg, 27.7 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.2 l/100 km (32.7 US mpg, 39.2 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.3 l/100 km (28.3 US mpg, 34 UK mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 14 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 14 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 13.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 152 km/h (94.45 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 2 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.8 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 | 1165 kg (2568.39 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1650 kg (3637.63 lbs.) |
| Max load | 485 kg (1069.24 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 580 l (20.48 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Length | 4030 mm (158.66 in.) |
| Width | 1635 mm (64.37 in.) |
| Height | 1700 mm (66.93 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2480 mm (97.64 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 | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | dependent spring suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Worm-reduction unit |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 195/80 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
The Suzuki Vitara (ET, TA) 1.6 i 16V represents a significant step in the evolution of the compact SUV. Its blend of affordability, practicality, and off-road capability made it a popular choice in many markets, and it laid the groundwork for the more sophisticated SUVs that would follow. While relatively simple by today’s standards, the Vitara remains a capable and reliable vehicle, appreciated by enthusiasts for its rugged charm and enduring appeal.
