Suzuki Ignis

Suzuki specializes in creating SUVs and small cars. The market rarely offers models that combine both worlds, and the small Suzuki Ignis is one of them. It's the smallest model the company currently sells, following the discontinuation of the Suzuki Celerio in 2020. Above it are models like the Suzuki Swift and the Suzuki Vitara.

We have tested this car:

Test Suzuki Ignis 1.2 Mild Hybrid 4 × 4 AllGrip 83 CV GLX Try Suzuki Ignis; a private, spacious and satisfactory car

To understand the origins of the Ignis, we have to go back to the year 2000. That's when Suzuki introduced the first generation, using different names depending on the market where it was sold. Currently, we have the second generation, officially launched in 2016. This edition underwent a facelift in 2020, incorporating a new design, more equipment, and an updated range of engines.

Technical characteristics of the Suzuki Ignis

Suzuki Ignis 2020

For its second generation, Suzuki engineers wanted to improve upon the characteristics that had always defined the Ignis. This led to the development of a completely new platform, called the HEARTECT platform , which has been used in various models from the Japanese company since 2014. It is always applied in small and medium-sized models, such as the Suzuki Baleno.

Based on its dimensions, the Ignis falls into the A-segment. Externally, it measures 3,7 meters long, 1,69 meters wide, and 1,6 meters high . These dimensions are complemented by a wheelbase of 2,43 meters. This wheelbase allows it to offer interior space for up to four passengers in a classic 2+2 configuration, with a total of five doors.

The rear seats are compromised by their narrow width and length, resulting in very limited legroom, although this is typical for the segment. As for cargo capacity, the Suzuki Ignis offers a trunk with a minimum capacity of 260 liters for the 4x2 versions, while the 4x4 version reduces this to 204 liters. Both figures can be increased by folding down the second row of seats.

Mechanical range and gearboxes of the Suzuki Ignis

One of the advantages of A-segment models is their light weight, which allows them to use small engines. The Ignis weighs a mere 985 kilograms. Its engine range revolves exclusively around a single MHEV gasoline variant with the DGT's ECO label . It comes standard with front-wheel drive, but a 4x4 system is available as an option, making the small Ignis a versatile vehicle, although not quite as capable as a Suzuki Jimny.

The engine in question is a three-cylinder gasoline engine with direct injection. It develops 83 horsepower and 107 Nm of torque . Coupled to this engine is a 0,12 kWh battery and an electric motor with just three horsepower, whose main function is to reduce fuel consumption, as it is not capable of propelling the car on its own. It comes standard with a five-speed manual transmission, although a CVT automatic transmission is available as an option.

Equipment of the Suzuki Ignis

Inside, the Suzuki Ignis doesn't stand out for its quality. The A-segment is a market niche heavily focused on price, and every detail counts. Hard plastics are prevalent, with only a few surfaces covered in soft-touch fabrics . The overall feeling of quality is limited, as is the comfort for its four occupants.

As is typical for the brand, the Ignis's equipment is divided into different trim levels and equipment packages. From least to most equipped, we find the GLE and GLX . The differences between trims are focused exclusively on the technology, as there are hardly any variations in the bodywork or the vehicle's overall appearance.

In terms of equipment, the Suzuki Ignis is a typical model in the A segment . The range of equipment is limited, although some interesting features stand out: a rearview camera, LED headlights, climate control, a multimedia system with a seven-inch touchscreen, navigation, mobile device connectivity, and a well-balanced suite of safety and driver assistance systems.

The Suzuki Ignis on video

The Suzuki Ignis according to Euro NCAP

The Suzuki Ignis underwent the European car safety tests, Euro NCAP, in 2016, where the Japanese hatchback earned 3 out of 5 stars . In terms of safety by category, the Ignis scored 79% for both adult and child occupant protection, and 67% for pedestrian safety. Its only weakness was the 25% score related to the vehicle's active safety systems. These ratings remain valid today, as there have been no changes to the vehicle's structure.

The Suzuki Ignis of Km 0 and second hand

The Suzuki Ignis is a curious case. Although it has never been among the best-selling models in its category, it has always enjoyed an excellent reputation for durability and resilience. Alternative sales channels don't offer many options, but they do show a relatively low depreciation rate of around 28%, placing it in the middle range compared to its rivals.

Looking at the used car market, we see that the most affordable models are from the first generation. Prices start at around €2.000 for gasoline models with over 150.000 kilometers on the odometer. The nearly new (Km 0) market has a lower number of units available. Dealerships aren't accumulating stock due to low demand. Prices for available units start at around €15.000 for mild hybrid (MHEV) models.

Rivals of the Suzuki Ignis

Suzuki Ignis rear

The A-segment has never been the most popular in terms of sales . Current models have never stood out for important aspects such as handling, comfort, quality, or equipment. However, recent releases are breaking down those barriers and presenting us with vehicles more suitable for a wider range of uses. The Ignis is far from the top sales positions, where we find rivals with well-known names such as the KIA Picanto , Hyundai i10 , Citroën C1 , Peugeot 108 , FIAT Panda , FIAT 500 , and Renault Twingo . They are all similar in concept and size, although the Suzuki was more affordable.

Highlight

Security systems
Price
Consumption

To improve

Motorization options
habitability
Exterior design

Suzuki Ignis prices

When setting prices, it's important to consider the price increases of the latest models on the market. Prices have skyrocketed across all categories, which is why the starting price for the Suzuki Ignis is €18.274 . This price corresponds to a 4x2 MHEV model with the GLE trim level. The most expensive in the range is the Suzuki Ignis GLX MHEV with all-wheel drive and a manual transmission. Its price starts at €21.567.