The carmaker from Japan has already proven that Suzuki has experience in redefining segments several times with models such as the LJ10, LJ80, Jimmy and Vitara. Now do it again. With the new Ignis, Suzuki opens the doors to the micro SUV segment. A little larger in size than the K-Cars sold in Japan, the Ignis offers, in addition to the upbeat body, efficiently used storage space. With the typical genes of a full-blown SUV, the Ignis also presents itself with sporty driving off-road and in the city. In particular, the “Y” generation, born between 1980 and 1999, Suzuki wants to win over and introduce them to mobility. The carmaker was already surprised by the first trend in sales after the market launch in Japan. After a cautiously estimated 20.000 units in the first few months, production is already three times sold out. Whether the micro SUV will be as popular in Germany will be revealed from January 3th next year. With a starting price of 14 euros, the Ignis is available for the German market.
The new Suzuki Ignis in the driving report
Micro SUV with Pepp?
The Ignis clearly misses the "classic" dimensions of an SUV. This could already be seen at this year's Geneva Motor Show. Its dimensions of 3,70 m in length, 1,66 m in width and 1,59 m in height confirm the term "micro SUV", but its static performance makes it stand very broad and self-confident, almost masculine on the street. The headlights are integrated in the radiator grille that runs across the entire front of the vehicle and the brand logo sits prominently in the middle, flanked by two chrome strips. Pulled far forward and directly at the headlights, the distinctive bonnet ends. Striking in the side view: the windows are framed by the roof line, rear and doors so that a long “C” emerges. Manufactured in lightweight construction, the basic version with the 1.2 DualJet petrol engine weighs just 885 kilograms, which should clearly have an impact on the consumption values. Its overhangs in front and behind are kept short. The 18 centimeters of ground clearance allow the Micro SUV to drive up and down the road without any problems. An Ignis 1.2 DualJet Comfort + was available to us for the first test drives in the area around Rome between Fiumicino and Fiuggi.
Interior with color blob
When we get in for the first time, not only does the display, which is large in relation to the vehicle interior, catch our eye, it is also the color accents of the floor console and door handles that stand out. Clearly structured, all operating elements feel they are in their “right” place. We are clearly informed of all important details. The touch panel display can be connected to a smartphone via Bluetooth® or a USB cable. MirrorLink in particular allows various applications of a smartphone to be replicated on the display. That's why Apple users can use Apple CarPlay and Siri to make calls, send messages or listen to music. Passengers who use Android smartphones are supported by Google services (Google MapsTM or Google SearchTM). Further functions of the system are digital radio, reversing camera and navigation system. Passengers enjoy comfortable seating both in the front and in the rear. For taller people, however, legroom is limited. The high seating position that prevails in the little Japanese offers a distinctive all-round view. When fully seated, the trunk still holds 260 liters (Comfort + equipment). For a purchase in the hardware store around the corner, the 1.100 liters are definitely sufficient with the rear seats folded down.
Gasoline and mild hybrid
The Ignis presents itself with a manageable range of engines and drives. As in other Japanese wisdom, Suzuki keeps it simple with a “keep it simple”! For Germany, only the 1.2 liter DualJet petrol engine will be available. With a displacement of 1.242 cubic meters, the unit delivers 66 kW (90 hp) and 120 Newton meters of torque. The only possible combination is with a drive and an alternative motor technology. The Japanese carmaker relies on the "mild hybrid" for this engine technology. As a front-wheel drive, the Micro SUV relies on the integrated start generator and a lithium-ion battery to achieve even more fuel efficiency. Suzuki's engineers offer a further link with the "ALLGRIP AUTO" system. Here the vehicle works completely autonomously and automatically distributes the drive torque to the front and rear wheels as soon as the necessary slip is missing. A traction control "Grip Control" can be activated if necessary and provides superior propulsion in difficult driving situations. For all variants, Suzuki uses a five-speed manual transmission, which brings the power to the road in an appealing and sporty manner. The overall performance of the chassis and steering gives positive feedback, even when cornering faster in the mountains near Rome. The combined consumption value of 4,6 liters presented to us cannot be checked with the Ignis with its engine and equipment on the day of the event.
Micro with driver assistance systems
When it comes to safety and driver assistance systems, Ignis customers do not have to forego convenience. Suzuki engineers rely on systems that can otherwise only be found in higher-end vehicles. But first and foremost it is the particularly rigid body that is supposed to absorb the impact energy in the event of a collision. The driver assistance systems themselves are connected to the stereo cameras, which are available for an option price of 1.000 euros. Integrated are the dual camera-supported active brake support (works from a driving speed of 5 km / h and detects vehicles and pedestrians), the passive lane keeping system (works from a speed of approx. 60 km / h - warning via the instrument panel and vibration on the steering wheel ) and a drowsiness detection. Here, too, the system works from a speed of approx. 60 km / h and warns the driver via a buzzer and the display on the instrument panel.
Market launch in January 2017
The new Micro SUV Ignis will be available in Germany from January 14, 2017 with all equipment and combinations. The corresponding deliveries then begin as soon as possible via Japan, where the small SUV is produced. The base price for the 1.2 DualJet is € 11.900. The four equipment variants "Basic", "Club", "Comfort" and "Comfort +" are supported in the first few months by the additions "Intro Edition" and "Intro Edition +". The all-wheel drive joins the line up from the "Comfort" variant. Suzuki only serves hybrid customers with the "Comfort +" equipment and the associated price of 17.040 euros.
Conclusion: The Ignis is the “founder” of the micro SUV segment and at the same time the benchmark!
The Ignis will be the first choice when buying a car, especially for the target group addressed by Suzuki, the beginners born between 1980 and 1999. The Japanese carmaker puts the presented price / performance ratio on a moderate basis. Driving pleasure and utility are important components that the Ignis always fulfills.
Beginners and the young at heart will find the first purchase option in the micro SUV.
[=” ” ]Text and image: Stefan Beckmann – Featured image: Manufacturer (Suzuki Deutschland GmbH)