Suzuki is one of those brands that keep impressing throughout their model lineup year after year. In a world were Toyota rules in the budget sedan segment with their Corolla model, the Ciaz is one of those that are under-rated but yet offers so much more than you expect. We recently drove the updated Ciaz in GLX form which is offered in automatic and manual guise, we happened to have the latter.
Styling
The updates Suzuki GLX models receives new 16-inch polished wheels, a grille thats flanked by new headlamp clusters with automatic LED headlamps and integrated daytime running lights, redesigned lower intake, and integrated LED combination lamps. Overall it has a more modern and purposeful look.
Inside
Inside you’re greeted by a new 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system that supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Suzuki has also added a 4.2” colour information display in the instrument cluster that displays vital information such as fuel consumption, and fuel range. The GLX comes with some good standard equipment like cruise control, electric windows, remote central locking, manual air conditioning, steering mounted audio controls, a center armrest with integrated storage, rear air conditioning vents and an additional 12V socket for the back-seat passengers. As much as there’s the use of plastics in the cabin, they feel solid and bound to last a long time. Rear legroom is plenty and a luggage swallowing 480 litres of boot space.
The Drive
It’s powered by a new 1.5-litre petrol engine that produces 77kW and 138Nm. Thats 7 more kW and 8Nm more than the previous model. The power is descent for lugging around 3 passengers. Power is sent to the front wheels via a 5-speed manual (4-speed for the automatic). Suzuki claims fuel consumption at 5.5 l/100km, and during out test we consistently averaged 6 l/100km. During highway driving we did wish we had that extra gear. Ride quality is good, but don’t go apex hunting because of some apparent body lean.
Verdict
The Suzuki Ciaz has some big competition from the likes of the Toyota Corolla and Polo Sedan. That being said the Ciaz seems to offer more standard features and longer service plan. Its a solid build from the brand that keeps producing quality cars.
The model starts at R 223 400 with our test unit (1.5 GLX AT) coming in at R 269 900.
