Suzuki Ignis: Tiny but not tight

What is it?

Forget retro styling with modern features, fuel efficiency, or staying true to traditional Suzuki design elements, it’s the interior of wide-open spaces that sets the Ignis GLX apart from other compact sports utility vehicles.

There are no claims here of seating for five (base GL covers that area), but four occupants have little to complain about as far as living room in the GLX, with its sliding and reclining 50:50 split fold two rear seats.

The test vehicle had ample leg room all round for the average-size adult.

However, not all is hunky dory. There’s tightness in the number of vehicles heading our way, because of global constraints on automotive computer chips and vehicle supply issues.

At the time or writing, Suzuki Australia says current estimated delivery time on a new Ignis is currently 88 days — up three days or four per cent on January.

What’s it cost?

Variants range in price from $21,490 for the GL manual to $25,571 for the recently added GLX Shadow.

Our test vehicle the GLX with a CVT auto sells for $24,490, plus on-road costs.

In every aspect, the exterior of the new Ignis carries on the legacy of traditional Suzuki elements, while adding modern touches at the same time.

‘Simple and Iconic’ was the concept design.

The Ignis makes a strong impression at first sight, while keeping structural elements, such as lines, surfaces and curves simple.

In contrast, bold auto-levelling LED headlights with auto off/on function, plus LED daytime running lights give the Ignis a distinctive look.

A chrome grille surround and 16-inch alloy wheels complete the all-round picture.

For the smart phone owner connection to the world outside comes via the 9.0-inch touchscreen.

Make calls, access music, send and receive messages, or hook up satellite navigation through Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.

Occupants have the use of voice recognition and an audio system with six speakers.

The little Suzuki doesn’t come with a safety rating.

But in an emergency braking situation, ABS brakes keep tyres from locking and adds stability.

In addition, electric brake-force distribution helps maintain control by sending the optimum amount of force to front and rear wheels.

A new generation of stronger-but-lighter chassis provides a stable framework while reducing drag.

Pedestrians are protected too — extra shock absorption is built into the bonnet, front wiper area, front bumper and front bonnet tip to reduce collision impact.

Six airbags – driver and passenger seat front, side and curtain – are fitted as standard to the Ignis for maximum protection.

Like all Suzukis, the MY23 Ignis is covered by the maker’s five-year unlimited kilometre warranty.

What’s it go like?

The maker’s concept design is extended to the passenger cabin with simple lines and uncluttered surfaces.

The adoption of functional components gives a unique personality to the surroundings.

A bold contrast of black and white on the instrument panel and door trim creates a powerful impression, while dark blue and silver highlights on the centre console and door
handles attract attention.

The aforementioned four seat set-up consists of firm yet comfortable positions up front and a manual slide-and-recline second row in which the front passenger-side occupant can take advantage of a seat back pocket.

Climate control air-conditioning extends to the rear.

Boot space is from 264 litres with four seats in operation to 515 litres with backs folded and 1104 litres of maximum volume.

A space saver spare wheel lurks beneath the floor.

Boasting a wider, higher SUV-style stance, Ignis is guaranteed to turn heads wherever it’s taken.

Impressive ground clearance of 180mm and generous approach and departure angles mean it can be taken on minor adventures on and off road.

Harnessed through a new and improved engine, the Ignis is a willing drive under varying conditions as it balances power and fuel efficiency.

The 1.2-litre four-cylinder engine puts out 66kW of power and 120Nm of torque via a continuous variable transmission.

Peak power comes up at 6000 rpm, while top torque is on tap at a low 1500 to 4000 revs, so it’s easy to see its advantages as a town car.

Suzuki claims the Ignis GLX uses 4.9L/100km of premium unleaded petrol in the combined city and highway cycle while putting out 114g/km of CO2.

The test car recorded 6.1 and 4.5 respectively.

With its 32-litre fuel tank, it should be able to travel more than 600km on a full tank.

A more rigid, yet lighter suspension smooths out shocks and enables more responsive and controlled handling.

A new generation, stronger-but-lighter chassis provides a stable framework while reducing drag.

Large diameter tyres (16-inch) and a minimum turning circle of less than 10 metres make Ignis easy to manoeuvre on narrow streets or in tight car parks.

 

What we like?

• Roomy
• Distinctive looks
• Elevated ride height
• Rear air vents
• Easy to manoeuvre

What we don’t like?

• Longish wait
• No safety rating
• Uses premium unleaded

The bottom line?

The Ignis GLX, with its versatile, voluminous interior, leads the way as an ultra-compact SUV.

A long list of exterior colours and accessories add to the degree of difficulty in the choice of variant. However, there is the matter of availability.

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