Comparing Suzuki’s Top SUVs – Jimny vs. Vitara vs. Fronx

At Thorp Suzuki, our diverse SUV lineup offers something for everyone, whether you’re looking for off-road adventure, urban practicality, or a blend of both!
Silver Suzuki Grand Vitara Front View

At Thorp Suzuki, our diverse SUV lineup offers something for everyone, whether you’re looking for off-road adventure, urban practicality, or a blend of both! In this blog, we’ll have a closer look at three of our top contenders: the Jimny, the Grand Vitara, and the Fronx. Each of these outstanding SUVs boasts unique strengths, catering to distinct lifestyles and preferences in Cape Town. 

Suzuki Jimny – A Feisty, Compact Off-Roader

Design and Size: 

The iconic 3-door Suzuki Jimny is instantly recognizable with its boxy, retro-inspired design that pays homage to its long and famous heritage. It’s a compact SUV, 3,645mm in length, 1,645mm in width and 1,720mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,250mm. Despite its compact size, the Jimny adequately accommodates passengers and cargo. Nimble in tight spaces, the Jimny is easy to manoeuvre in urban settings. But don’t let its modest size fool you – the rugged Jimny is built for adventure! Its generous 210mm ground clearance and short overhangs gives it exceptional off-road capability, enabling it to handle challenging terrains with ease. 

Looking for something even feistier? Check out the new Jimny 5-door! 

Performance:  

Powered by a robust 1.5-litre 4-cylinder engine that generates 101 horsepower and impressive torque, the Jimny delivers ample power for both on-road and off-road excursions. Its true strength lies in its robust 4WD system with a low-range transfer case. This system, combined with its lightweight construction, enables the Jimny to conquer obstacles that often leave larger and heavier SUVs stranded. This also explains the Suzuki Jimny fuel consumption of 6.3l per 100km and low (146g/km) CO2 emissions. LSD traction control and hill hold control enhance its excellent handleability. 

Interior and Comfort: 

The interior of the Suzuki Jimny is roomy considering its size, and prioritises functionality and durability. The rugged cabin is constructed of hard-wearing materials that can withstand the rigours of off-roading. Foldable rear seats maximise cargo space. The GLX model provides screw holes for optional accessories like utility hooks and luggage bars. Convenient trays and pockets ensure your devices and smartphone are to hand, as are USB and other accessory sockets.

Target Audience:  

The Jimny is the ideal choice for off-road enthusiasts who crave adventure and to own this unique, much-loved, characterful road warrior! Its compact size and exceptional off-road prowess make it perfect for exploring South Africa’s more untamed areas.  

Suzuki Grand Vitara – A Versatile, Compact SUV 

Silver Suzuki Grand Vitara Front View

Design and Size: 

Stepping up in size, the Grand Vitara offers a more spacious and modern alternative to the Jimny. Measuring 4,345mm in length,1,795mm in width, and 1,645 in height, it provides ample room for passengers and cargo. Its design is sleek and contemporary, with smooth lines and a bold front grille, giving it a stylish presence on city streets and highways. The ground clearance of the Suzuki Vitara is also 210mm.  

Performance: 

This powerful, compact SUV combines ruggedness and comfort. It comes with two engine options: a robust 1.5-litre petrol engine that produces 103 horsepower, and a 1.4-litre turbocharged engine that delivers an even punchier 129 horsepower. The Grand Vitara also offers a capable 4WD system (AllGrip Select) on some trims, making it suitable for moderate off-roading. The Grand Vitara’s fuel consumption is 6.0 l/100 km.

Interior and Comfort:  

The Suzuki Vitara interior offers a step up in refinement, featuring higher-quality materials and a more comfortable ambiance. The cabin is well-insulated, providing a quiet ride, and the seats offer good support for longer journeys. Its modern amenities include a touchscreen infotainment system, automatic climate control, and a range of driver-assistance features. 

Target Audience:  

The Grand Vitara strikes a balance between urban comfort and off-road capability. This makes it a versatile choice for families and individuals who desire a practical and stylish SUV that can handle moderate off-road adventures. 

Suzuki Fronx – A Trailblazing, Stylish Cross-Over 

Red Suzuki Fronx Front View

Design and Size:  

The pioneering Fronx is a game-changer in the realm of compact SUV crossovers. It blends the practicality of an SUV with the sleekness of a hatchback. Its bold and dynamic exterior is characterised by sharp lines and a distinctive front grille, and exudes confidence and modernity. With a wheelbase of 2,520mm, the Fronx is slightly smaller than the Grand Vitara. It measures 3,995mm in length, 1,765mm in width, and 1,550mm in height, making it easy to manoeuvre in tight urban environments. It has a minimum ground clearance of 170mm. 

Performance:  

Under the hood, the Fronx houses a spirited 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine that delivers 77kW of power and 138 Nm of torque. You can choose between a smooth 5-speed manual transmission, or a convenient 4-speed automatic transmission. The Fronx’s balanced driving experience combines peppy acceleration with impressive fuel efficiency figures. These range from 5.5 L/100km to 5.7 L/100km depending on the transmission and your driving style. The Suzuki Fronx fuel tank capacity is 37 litres. 

Interior and Comfort:  

You’ll be impressed by the Suzuki Fronx interior and its spacious and well-appointed cabin. The dual-tone dashboard and unique forged metal finishes create a sense of sophistication. Ample leg- and headroom ensure the comfort of driver and passengers. The Fronx is packed with features, including a 9-inch HD Smart Play Pro+ infotainment system, a high-tech Head-Up Display and a 360-view camera. In terms of looks, the Fronx’s athletic appeal is undeniable, with roof rails, a broad bonnet, and a signature NEXWave grille. 

Target Audience:  

The Fronx is perfect for urbanites and young families who prioritise style, comfort, and technology. Its compact size, fuel efficiency, and modern features make it ideal for navigating city streets and embarking on weekend adventures. 

Summing it all up… 

  • The Jimny is a rugged and capable off-roader, perfect for adventure seekers.  
  • The Grand Vitara provides a balance of urban comfort and off-road capability, making it a versatile choice for families.  
  • The stylish Fronx, with its modern features and impressive fuel efficiency, is ideal for urban dwellers seeking a practical and comfortable crossover.  

And, no matter which SUV you choose, we have you covered with our free 10-year, 1 million km warranty exclusive to Thorp! 

Ready to experience these awesome Suzuki SUVs for yourself? Visit one of our Western Cape dealerships located at Suzuki Table View and Suzuki N1 City in Cape Town, or contact us today to schedule a test drive.  

The dedicated Thorp team is looking forward to helping you find your dream SUV!