Considering a Used Suzuki Vitara? Share Pros & Cons SUZUKI Vitara IV Off-Road (LY) (02.2015 - ...)

The 2018 Suzuki Vitara is a reliable and practical crossover with notable strengths and a few drawbacks.
*Advantages:
- Reliability: Durable engines and transmissions with minimal major issues.
- Efficiency: Low fuel consumption, especially with calm driving.
- Handling: Excellent maneuverability for city driving.
- Compact Size: Easy parking and urban navigation.
- Off-Road Capability: High ground clearance and optional all-wheel drive enhance versatility.
*Drawbacks:
- Noise Insulation:Some owners find cabin noise noticeable at high speeds.
- Trunk Space:May feel small for family trips or large cargo.
- Interior Quality: Hard plastic materials can detract from the premium feel.
- Spare Parts Cost: Genuine parts can be pricey, though alternatives are available.
*Buying Tips:
- Check mileage and ensure it matches the car's condition.
- Review the service history for consistent maintenance.
- Inspect the body for damage, corrosion, or accident signs.
- Examine the interior for wear and verify electronics work.
- Test drive to assess the suspension, steering, and brakes.
*Common Issues:
- Creaking interior plastic, especially in cold weather.
- Brake pad wear over time.
- Occasional air conditioning problems in hot weather.
The 2018 Suzuki Vitara is a dependable, fuel-efficient choice for daily use. Proper inspection and diagnostics are essential when considering a used model.

Hey there! I've had my 2018 Vitara for about 2 years now and overall, I'm really pleased with it. The reliability has been excellent - I haven't had any major issues at all. The fuel efficiency is great, especially on longer drives, and I find the handling to be really nimble and easy to maneuver in the city. The higher ground clearance is also handy for those occasional off-road adventures.

One downside I've noticed is the cabin noise at higher speeds. It can get a bit loud on the motorway, which can be tiring on long journeys. The interior materials also feel a bit plasticky and cheaper than I'd like, though they've held up well so far.

I've had a similar experience with my 2018 Vitara. The reliability has been a real plus - it's required minimal maintenance and hasn't let me down. The fuel economy is impressive too, especially compared to some of the larger SUVs I considered.

The limited cargo space has been a bit of an issue for me though. I do a lot of DIY and find the boot space a bit tight when I'm transporting larger items. The rear seats do fold down, but it's not always convenient.

Another thing to be aware of is the cost of genuine Suzuki parts. They can be quite pricey, though there are aftermarket options available that are more affordable.

Thanks for the feedback, that's really helpful! The reliability and fuel efficiency do sound very appealing. The noise and cargo space are things I'll need to weigh up.

One other question - have you had any problems with the air conditioning system? I've read that can be an issue in hot weather.

Ah yes, good point. I did have a minor issue with the A/C a couple of summers ago. It seemed to struggle a bit in the really hot weather and didn't cool the cabin as effectively as I'd have liked. Suzuki did end up replacing a component under warranty, but it was a bit of a pain.

Overall it's been fine, but I'd definitely recommend getting the air con thoroughly checked during the test drive, especially if you live in a warm climate. Make sure it's blowing cold air consistently.

I haven't had any problems with the air con in my Vitara, but I can see how it could be an issue in very hot weather. Mine's worked well so far, but I don't drive it much in the height of summer.

The other common problem I've heard about is the interior plastics creaking and squeaking, especially in colder weather. Mine has been fine, but it's worth listening out for that sort of thing on a test drive.

Noted, thanks for the heads up on the air con and interior plastics. I'll make sure to check those things thoroughly when I go to view the car.

Overall it sounds like the Vitara is a pretty solid used buy, with a few minor niggles to be aware of. The reliability, efficiency and handling seem to be the real strengths. I think I'm going to go ahead and arrange a test drive - fingers crossed it all checks out!

Sounds like a plan! Just be sure to take it on a good mix of roads to really get a feel for how it performs. And don't forget to check the service history too - that'll give you a good indication of how well it's been looked after.

Good luck with the test drive, I hope you find the right Vitara for you. Let us know how you get on!

Will do, thanks again for all the helpful insights. It's really reassuring to hear from owners who've had a positive experience. I'll report back once I've had a chance to check out the car.

No problem, happy to share my experiences. The Vitara might not be the flashiest SUV out there, but it seems to be a solid, reliable choice. Just make sure to do your due diligence on the test drive and inspection. Wishing you the best of luck with finding the right one!