ignis
ignis

Ignis now, Ignis then, Ignis when

Riley Riley

What do you call more than one Suzuki Ignis . . . Ignii . . . Igniss . . . Ignises?

What we’ve got here is the original Ignis and its successor, the current Ignis — well, before the most recent update that is.

The current model with its retro styling pays homage to a number of relatives in the Suzuki stable, says Suzuki.

“All the while meeting and exceeding the expansive expectations of our market with its progressive design and features.

“It exudes confidence, and is unparalleled in its approach to styling and customisation.”

Translation. The styling is polarising, but as a city car it’s a good fit for purpose.

Ignis is powered by a 1.2-litre Dualjet four cylinder engine that produces 66kW of power and 120Nm of torque, with a 5-speed manual or CVT style auto, weighing in at a lightweight 820kg, with fuel consumption rated at a  miserly 4.7L/100km.

It hasn’t strayed too far from that formula.

The original released here in 2000 was powered by a 1.3-litre four cylinder engine that delivered 60kW and 106Nm, with a 5-speed manual or 4-speed auto.

It weighed 890kg and used 7.4L/100km.

There was also a Holden styled version called the Cruze that — wait for it — had all wheel drive and described as an SUV before they invented the term (I remember covering the launch of this particular car).

And, although it didn’t show its face here, the car was also sold as the Subaru Justy.

The one pictured however is the three-door performance version from 2003, the Suzuki Ignis Sport — note the WRC decals.

Badged as the Swift Sport in Japan, it was a result of the company’s involvement with the WRC in 2002 and was fitted with a larger, more powerful 1.5-litre engine that produced 83kW and 143Nm.

The Sport featured lowered suspension, close ratio gearbox and tuned exhaust.

It could accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 8,9 seconds and had a top speed of 185km/h.

Visually the Ignis Sport was distinguished by an aggressive body kit that included deeper front and rear bumpers, extended side sills, flared wheel arches, a mesh grille, a rear spoiler and a more prominent exhaust pipe.

Inside, it featured Recaro sport seats, white instrument dials with blue illumination, carbon effect panels and aluminium pedals.

The car was available only in red, blue, silver, black and yellow exterior colours.

 

CHECKOUT: Take me to funky town

CHECKOUT: Suzuki Ignis: now you’re talking

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Riley