By Otsile Kadiege

Suzuki’s Vitara Brezza has been on sale in South Africa for over a year now. Since then the compact SUV has proven to be a local hit as it is one of the models which helped Suzuki Auto SA break sales records. In a bid to make the Vitara Brezza more competitive, the Japanese automaker updated it with new looks, new technologies sourced from the Baleno and a new automatic transmission.

Refreshed exterior deign

The Suzuki Vitara Brezza’s updated exterior design has gone through an extensive update. Up front, the refreshed Vitara Brezza features a newly designed grille which is flanked by newly designed LED headlights and daytime running lights (DRLs). The front bumper has also been revised and now features slightly smaller fog lights and a prominent faux skid plate.

The side profile now features large contrast cladding and a set of newly designed 16-inch alloy wheels on higher spec models. Sticking to the theme of prominence, the rear of the updated Vitara Brezza also features a large faux skid plate. More highlights include redesigned slim taillights and ‘BREZZA’ lettering on the tailgate. There will be six new colour options to choose from including three dual-tone colours and three single-tone colours.

Refreshed interior design and technology

Aboard the new Vitara Brezza is an upmarket-looking cabin featuring a few gizmos sourced from the new Baleno. These include the flat-bottom style multifunction steering wheel with steering mounted paddle shifters, a large 9-inch touch display with the Smartplay Pro+ infotainment system featuring Android Auto and Apple CarPlay in higher specification Brezzas. It also features wireless charging, ambient lighting, voice command, 3 x USB ports (two Type-As and a single Type-C), a sunroof, automatic climate control and rear air vents.

Safety and driver assistance systems

On the safety and assistance systems side of things, the facelifted Vitara Brezza gets six airbags, ESP, ABS with EBD, 360-degree camera, cruise control, hill-hold assist and ISOFIX rear anchorages, among others.

Powertrain

Powering the updated Vitara Brezza is Suzuki’s new 1.5-litre K15C engine with hybrid technology. It produces 76kW (103hp) and 137Nm. Customers can opt for a 5-speed manual or the new 6-speed torque converter automatic transmission.

Availability Suzuki Auto South Africa are yet to confirm local availability.