The Suzuki Vitara IV, produced from 2014 to 2018, represents the fourth generation of Suzuki’s popular compact SUV. While not initially offered in the United States, the Vitara held a significant position in the European and Asian markets as an affordable and versatile all-wheel-drive vehicle. This generation marked a return to the Vitara nameplate after a period where the model was known as the Grand Vitara. The Vitara IV aimed to blend practicality, fuel efficiency, and Suzuki’s renowned four-wheel-drive capability into a stylish and accessible package. The 1.6 VVT ALLGRIP Automatic variant, detailed here, was a key offering within the range, providing a balance of performance and convenience.
Suzuki Vitara IV 1.6 VVT: An Overview
The Vitara IV was designed to appeal to buyers seeking a compact SUV with genuine off-road ability. The “ALLGRIP” system, Suzuki’s selectable all-wheel-drive technology, was a central feature, offering various driving modes to suit different conditions. The 1.6 VVT engine, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, provided adequate power for everyday driving while maintaining reasonable fuel economy. The vehicle’s design incorporated modern styling cues and a focus on interior space and functionality.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Suzuki Vitara IV 1.6 VVT is a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine, designated the M16A. This naturally aspirated engine produces 120 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 156 Nm (115.06 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4400 rpm. The engine utilizes multi-port fuel injection and a variable valve timing (VVT) system to optimize performance and efficiency. The power-to-weight ratio is 9.9 kg/Hp, and the torque-to-weight ratio is 7.6 kg/Nm. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 13 seconds, while 0-60 mph is achieved in around 12.4 seconds. The vehicle has a maximum speed of 180 km/h (111.85 mph). The engine’s 1586 cm³ displacement (96.78 cu. in.) and 11:1 compression ratio contribute to its balanced performance characteristics. The engine oil capacity is 3.9 liters (4.12 US qt | 3.43 UK qt) and requires a specific oil specification (details available upon login to the manufacturer’s database).
Design & Features
The Suzuki Vitara IV is a five-door, five-seat SUV characterized by its modern and robust exterior styling. The design incorporates a prominent front grille, sculpted body lines, and a relatively high ground clearance of 185 mm (7.28 in.). The vehicle’s dimensions are 4175 mm (164.37 in.) in length, 1775 mm (69.88 in.) in width, and 1610 mm (63.39 in.) in height, with a wheelbase of 2500 mm (98.43 in.). Inside, the Vitara IV offers a practical and functional cabin with a focus on usability. The trunk space ranges from a minimum of 375 liters (13.24 cu. ft.) to a maximum of 710 liters (25.07 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. Safety features include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and a robust chassis designed for both on-road comfort and off-road capability. The ALLGRIP system allows drivers to select from various modes – Auto, Sport, Snow, and Lock – to optimize traction and handling for different terrains. The vehicle rides on either 16 or 17-inch wheel rims, typically fitted with 215/60 R16 or 215/55 R17 tires.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Suzuki |
| Model | Vitara |
| Generation | Vitara IV |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 VVT (120 Hp) ALLGRIP Automatic |
| Start of production | 2014 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.7 l/100 km (35.1 US mpg, 42.2 UK mpg, 14.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.1 l/100 km (46.1 US mpg, 55.4 UK mpg, 19.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.7 l/100 km (41.3 US mpg, 49.6 UK mpg, 17.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 131 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.9 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.6 kg/Nm |
| Power | 120 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 75.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 156 Nm @ 4400 rpm (115.06 lb.-ft. @ 4400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | M16A |
| Engine displacement | 1586 cm3 (96.78 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 78 mm (3.07 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.9 l (4.12 US qt | 3.43 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.2 l (6.55 US qt | 5.46 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1185 kg (2612.48 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1730 kg (3814 lbs.) |
| Max load | 545 kg (1201.52 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 (Back) track | 1505 mm (59.25 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 185 mm (7.28 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.4 m (34.12 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
The Suzuki Vitara IV 1.6 VVT ALLGRIP Automatic offered a compelling package for buyers seeking a versatile and capable compact SUV. Its blend of fuel efficiency, all-wheel-drive capability, and practical design made it a popular choice in its target markets.
