Suzuki DZire driving review
Suzuki recently expanded its model line-up by adding a small sedan to its highly popular Swift range and I was given the opportunity to drive this new Dzire model for a few days.
As I haven’t yet had an opportunity to test the Suzuki Swift hatchback, I really didn’t know what to expect. As such my first impressions of the DZire were mixed. Firstly, the name and catchphrase confuse me somewhat. ”A streetcar named DZire”? This doesn’t exactly sum up the compact sedan in front of me, I thought.
Stepping into the car I was surprised by a stylish and classy-looking dashboard. Not what I expected from an entry-level offering. Then I noticed the beige! It’s somewhat unfortunate (if not for practical reasons) that this India built model features one of the most popular of interior trim colours in that market. Not ideal if you have kids.
There are two trim levels in the new DZire range: an entry-level GA model, and a more comprehensively equipped GL option.
Both models feature an impressively efficient 1,2 litre four-cylinder engine offered with either a manual or automatic transmission. The latter combination offering a combined cycle fuel consumption of 6,3 litres/100 km (with an associated CO2 emissions figure of 149 g/km), while the manual version delivers 5,7 l/100 km and CO2 emissions of 134 g/km.
I like the fact that the DZire’s cabin offers small niches for you to safely put things away from the direct view. There’s also a nifty, quick-release pop-up beverage holder hidden in front of the passenger side air vent. The centre stack is home to the air-conditioning and ventilation controls, as well as a standard audio system on GL models (optional on GA versions).
The car may look small, but it is actually quite spacious. There’s comfortable seating for four, while 300 litres of boot space ensures ample luggage area.
The driving experience in the Suzuki DZire is very enjoyable. I set out from Cape Town on the West Coast road on a weekday and completely forgot that I wasn’t actually on holiday. The 1,2 litre engine develops 63kW and does not disappoint. Something that surprised me was the smooth and compliant drive.
It is a fun car to drive and it handles very well. I like the slightly raised ground clearance and high-profile tyres. This allows the car to cope with rutted tar, potholes and gravel surfaces with aplomb.
Compared with the Swift hatch, the biggest difference in profile occurs at the C-pillar. On the DZire this flares outwards at the base and extends into the compact, cleanly integrated deck of the boot – the car’s most obvious distinguishing feature.
With spiraling fuel costs and interest rates ever on the increase, small, affordable fuel efficient cars are popping up everywhere, so why choose the Suzuki DZire? The DZire effectively takes the Swift’s already exceptional attributes, and presents them in a fresh and appealing subcompact sedan format. This Suzuki basically ticks all the boxes if you are looking for a small entry-level sedan.
Just like the Swift 1,2 hatchback, the DZire 1,2 sedan comes equipped with ABS brakes as standard. The pricing starts at R128 900 and includes a two-year/30 000 km service plan, and a three-year/100 000 km warranty, as well as a three-year roadside assistance programme.
Pricing:
DZire 1.2 GA M/T SD1 R 128 900
DZire 1.2 GL M/T SD2 R 138 900
DZire 1.2 GL A/T SD3 R153 900