Used Suzuki Vitara

What to know before buying: Suzuki Vitara

From 3 press tests · updated 11/10/2026

What the reviews say

• Compact dimensions make city driving and parking easier, while economical fuel consumption suits everyday use.[1]one source
• The ride is fairly firm, road and wind noise become noticeable at speed, and the boot and rear seats may feel limited for family trips.[1]one source
• In the second generation, the naturally aspirated 1.6-litre suits city use, while the 1.4-litre Boosterjet offers better pull and motorway comfort.[2]one sourceotrā paaudze / второе поколение / second generation
• According to the source, second-generation all-wheel drive offers no advantage away from asphalt, while the front-wheel-drive version is cheaper to maintain.[2]one sourceotrā paaudze / второе поколение / second generation

Typical faults

• The second-generation 1.4-litre Boosterjet may develop oil consumption, piston-ring wear and timing-chain stretch after 100,000 km.[2]one sourceotrā paaudze / второе поколение / second generation

  100 000+ km · 1.4 Boosterjet 140 hp

• The source notes that ageing Vitara examples may develop electronic problems.[1]one source
• A 2018 Vitara owner reported repeated air-conditioning fuse failures even though the system cooled correctly when operating.[3]one source

  2018–2018

• A 2019 owner reported a tailgate handle that moved without opening the door; another report mentioned lock-plastic deformation in cold weather.[3]one source

  2019–2019

Which engine and version to take

• The second-generation 117 hp 1.6-litre naturally aspirated engine is reliable and simple to service; with proper care it may cover up to 200,000 km without major problems.[2]one sourceotrā paaudze / второе поколение / second generation
• The second-generation 140 hp 1.4-litre Boosterjet is better suited to motorway use thanks to its stronger pull, but requires 95-octane fuel and more frequent oil changes.[2]one sourceotrā paaudze / второе поколение / second generation

What to avoid

• Treat second-generation 1.4 Boosterjet cars above 100,000 km with caution: the source identifies possible oil consumption, ring wear and chain stretch at this mileage.[2]one sourceotrā paaudze / второе поколение / second generation

What to check at the inspection

• For the second-generation 1.6-litre engine, verify regular valve adjustment and suitable oil use, as the source highlights both maintenance needs.[2]one sourceotrā paaudze / второе поколение / second generation
• On a 1.4 Boosterjet above 100,000 km, check oil consumption, piston-ring condition and the timing chain.[2]one sourceotrā paaudze / второе поколение / second generation
• Test all electronic equipment because the source notes possible electronic faults in older examples.[1]one source
• Test the air conditioning, parking sensors and tailgate lock, as owner reports mention fuse, sensor and lock failures.[3]one source
• During the test drive, assess ride firmness, noise at speed, rear-seat comfort and boot capacity.[1]one source

Verdict

Sources

1. [1]suzuki1909.com — Плюсы и минусы Suzuki Vitara: недостатки и достоинства ... · press
2. [2]newsauto.com.ua — Названо головні недоліки популярного вживаного ... · press
3. [3]startmycar.com — Suzuki Vitara problems and issues · press

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