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 (the 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, is concerned. The test vehicle had ample leg room
all round for the average-size adult.
However, not all is hunky dory. There’s tightness in number of vehicles heading our way,
because of global constraints on automotive computer chips and vehicle supply issues.
Suzuki Australia says current estimated delivery time, as of this month (February), on a
new Ignis is currently at 88 days, up three days or four per cent on January.
That did not stop Suzuki making available a top-notch Ignis GLX CVT, which sells for
$24,490, plus on-road costs, for test. Variants range in price from $21,490 for the GL
manual to $25,571 for the recently added GLX Shadow.
Like all Suzukis, the MY23 Ignis is covered by the maker’s five-year unlimited kilometre
warranty.
STYLING
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 headlamps 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.
INTERIOR
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.
INFOTAINMENT
For the smart phone owner connection to the world outside comes via the 9-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.
ENGINES / TRANSMISSIONS
The 1.2-litre four-cylinder engine puts out 66 kW of power and 120 Nm of torque via a
continuous variable transmission. Suzuki claims the Ignis GLX uses 4.9 litres per 100
kilometres of premium unleaded petrol in the combined city and highway cycle while
putting out 114g of carbon dioxide.
SAFETY
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.
DRIVING
Boasting a wider, higher SUV-style stance, Ignis is guaranteed to turn heads wherever it’s
taken. Impressive ground clearance of 180 mm 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.
Peak power of 66 kW 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 4.9 litres premium unleaded petrol per 100 kilometres in combined city / highway
cycle while putting out 114g 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 600 kilometres 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.
SUMMARY
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.
RATINGS
Looks: 7/10
Performance: 5/10
Safety: 6/10
Thirst: 5/10
Practicality: 7/10
Comfort: 7/10
Tech: 6/10
Value: 7/10
AT A GLANCE
MODEL LINE-UP
Suzuki Ignis GL (Qld) (Manual): $21,490
Suzuki Ignis GL (Qld) (CVT): $22,490
Suzuki Ignis GL (Manual): $21,490
Suzuki Ignis GL (CVT): $22,490
Suzuki Ignis GLX (Qld): $24,490
Suzuki Ignis GLX: $24,490
Suzuki Ignis GLX Shadow: $25,571
Note: These prices do not include government or dealer delivery charges. Contact your
local Suzuki dealer for drive-away prices.
SPECIFICATIONS (Suzuki Ignis GLX 1.2L 4-cylinder petrol, CVT, FWD SUV)
ENGINE:
Capacity: 1.242 litres
Configuration: Four cylinders inline
Maximum Power: 66 kW @ 5500 rpm
Maximum Torque: 120 Nm @ 1500-4000 rpm
Fuel Type: Unleaded petrol 95RON
Combined Fuel Cycle (ADR 81/02): 4.9 L/100km
Emissions: 114g carbon dioxide per kilometre
DRIVELINE: Continuously variable automatic transmission, front-wheel drive
DIMENSIONS, WEIGHT AND CAPACITIES:
Length: 3700 mm
Wheelbase: 2435 mm
Width: 1660 mm
Height: 1595 mm
Turning Circle: 9.4 metres
Kerb Mass: 865 kg
Fuel Tank Capacity: 32 litres
BRAKES:
Front: Ventilated disc
Rear: Disc
STANDARD WARRANTY:
Five years / unlimited kilometres
