Is Suzuki PH Launching a 4WD Vitara?

The Suzuki Vitara is one of the many popular choices in the subcompact crossover SUV segment ever since it was introduced locally in 2017. Last year, there were rumors that Suzuki Philippines would stop the importation of Vitara units from Hungary where local units are produced, and will be replaced by a new variant. These were confirmed by a Suzuki PH official but never happened, that is until now maybe.

Photos are circulating online of what could be the replacement of the GL+ and GLX variants which were the subject of previous rumors. Also, the photos are surely taken in the Philippines as the Vitara unit shown features Philippine conduction stickers.

In terms of looks, the Vitara unit shown in the photos features pretty much the same styling as to what the current Vitara has except the front bumper which features additional silver accents. A photo of the side also shows nothing much changed except the addition of chrome accents on the lower portion of the doors. It is also noticeable that Suzuki is retaining the two-tone color scheme with the unit’s black roof and pillars. The 17-inch two-tone alloy wheels also remain the same.

The rear is where it gets a bit more interesting. While the overall look is also still pretty much the same, there is a new tailgate spoiler which gives the Vitara a sportier appearance. The lower bumper also gets a more rugged design and is painted in silver instead of dark gray, surrounding the reverse light. 

The biggest change could be the addition of an all-wheel drive variant as the current Vitara is only available with front-wheel drive. This is apparent in the photos as the image of the rear also shows an AllGrip badge which is Suzuki’s name for its all-wheel drive system.

There are no images of the interior available but we assume that it should remain the same given that the current Vitara is already very well equipped.

It is unknown if there will be changes made under the hood. The current Vitara available in our market is powered by a 1.6L four-cylinder petrol engine that makes 115 hp and 156 Nm of torque. It is possible that Suzuki would introduce a turbocharged powertrain but there are no details to help confirm this.

We have no idea yet as to when this new variant of the Suzuki Vitara will be formally introduced. Given however that units are already in the country, it could be anytime soon.