The Suzuki Vitara IV 1.6 DDiS (120 Hp), produced between 2014 and 2018, represents the fourth generation of Suzuki’s popular Vitara compact SUV. While the Vitara nameplate has a long history dating back to 1985, the IV generation marked a significant departure in design and technology. This model was primarily aimed at the European market, where demand for small, fuel-efficient SUVs was growing. It offered a blend of practicality, affordability, and a degree of off-road capability, making it a competitive choice in its segment. The 1.6 DDiS variant, powered by a diesel engine, was particularly popular in regions with higher diesel fuel acceptance and taxation benefits.
Suzuki Vitara IV 1.6 DDiS: An Overview
The Vitara IV was designed to appeal to a younger demographic, offering a more modern and stylish aesthetic than its predecessors. It slotted into the subcompact SUV category, competing with vehicles like the Nissan Juke, Renault Captur, and Peugeot 2008. The 1.6 DDiS engine option provided a balance between fuel economy and performance, making it suitable for both urban commuting and longer journeys. The vehicle’s relatively lightweight construction and efficient engine contributed to its competitive fuel consumption figures.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Suzuki Vitara IV 1.6 DDiS is a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine, designated the D16AA. This engine produces 120 horsepower at 3750 rpm and 320 Nm (236.02 lb.-ft.) of torque at 1750 rpm. The engine features a turbocharger with an intercooler, enhancing power output and efficiency. Fuel is delivered via a diesel commonrail direct injection system. The engine’s 16.5:1 compression ratio is typical for a diesel engine, contributing to its thermal efficiency. Power is sent to the front wheels through a six-speed manual transmission. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 11.5 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in 10.9 seconds. The vehicle has a maximum speed of 180 km/h (111.85 mph). The engine meets Euro 6 emission standards, incorporating a particulate filter to reduce harmful emissions.
Design & Features
The Suzuki Vitara IV boasts a contemporary SUV design, characterized by its rounded edges, prominent wheel arches, and a distinctive front grille. The vehicle is a five-door, five-seater SUV, offering a practical and spacious interior for its class. The interior design is functional and well-equipped, with a focus on user-friendliness. Standard features typically included air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and a basic audio system. Higher trim levels offered features such as alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system, navigation, and safety features like ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). The trunk space is a respectable 375 liters (13.24 cu. ft.) with the rear seats up, expanding to 710 liters (25.07 cu. ft.) when the seats are folded down. The vehicle’s ride height of 185 mm (7.28 in) provides adequate ground clearance for light off-road driving.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Suzuki |
| Model | Vitara |
| Generation | Vitara IV |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 DDiS (120 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2014 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.6 l/100 km (51.1 US mpg, 61.4 UK mpg, 21.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.7 l/100 km (63.6 US mpg, 76.3 UK mpg, 27 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4 l/100 km (58.8 US mpg, 70.6 UK mpg, 25 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 106 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.3 kg/Hp |
| Power | 120 Hp @ 3750 rpm |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 1750 rpm (236.02 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | D16AA |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 79.5 mm (3.13 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 80.5 mm (3.17 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.52 l (5.83 US qt | 4.86 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1230 kg (2711.69 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1870 kg (4122.64 lbs.) |
| Max load | 640 kg (1410.96 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 375 l (13.24 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 710 l (25.07 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 47 l (12.42 US gal | 10.34 UK gal) |
| Length | 4175 mm (164.37 in.) |
| Width | 1775 mm (69.88 in.) |
| Height | 1610 mm (63.39 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2500 mm (98.43 in.) |
| Front track | 1535 mm (60.43 in.) |
| Rear track | 1505 mm (59.25 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 185 mm (7.28 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.4 m (34.12 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
The Suzuki Vitara IV 1.6 DDiS offered a compelling package for buyers seeking a practical, fuel-efficient, and stylish compact SUV. Its blend of modern features, reasonable performance, and affordability made it a popular choice in the European market. While not a performance vehicle, it provided a comfortable and capable driving experience for everyday use.
