by This model is called nothing but an ultra-compact crossover. But fans of JDM, considering the size and appearance, are more likely to recall the so-called light little kei-cars. And indeed, the latest generation Ignis is a very compact, somewhat cute, and quite charismatic little car.
For this reason, TopGear decided to take this car for a test drive to understand its advantages, price, and convenience. And most importantly – its economy, as it is essentially the cheapest hybrid, and even with crossover ambitions.
Immediately, we must say that the Suzuki Ignis crossover is somewhat like a dietitian with Alyona Alyona. Without offense to both sides, but in the Ignis, albeit with a claimed clearance of 180 mm, the front “skirt” reduces it by at least one and a half times.
As for hybridity, it should not be taken “on words” either. Because the Smart Hybrid system includes an integrated starter-generator (ISG) with a lithium-ion battery. This supposedly allows the car to receive additional power when starting and braking, improving fuel efficiency. Why “supposedly”? Because in practice, the 2.3-kilowatt starter-generator has little effect, especially when compared to the claimed and actual fuel consumption.
Fuel consumption of the Suzuki Hybrid Ignis (manufacturer’s data)
| City cycle, l/100 km | 4.3 (Manual) | 4.7 (CVT) |
| Highway cycle, l/100 km | 3.9 (Manual) | 4.3 (CVT) |
| Combined cycle, l/100 km | 4.1 (Manual) | 4.4 (CVT) |
What are the actual fuel consumption figures? The best indicator in the “vegetarian” mode at speeds up to a maximum of 70 km/h, without sudden accelerations and using inertia forces, turned out to be 4.7-4.8 l in a mixed city-highway cycle (without shifting from the far right lane). In a calm manner at speeds up to 100 km/h and careful use of “coasting” – 6.1-6.5 l. If only on the highway and again lightly, it will be 5.3-5.7 l. In traffic jams and/or overtaking and aggressive driving (although in this case it sounds funny), it will be over 7 liters.
And here arises the question, what are the advantages of a hybrid ultra-compact crossover with a 1.2-liter gasoline engine and a so-called mild hybrid system?
For and Against
Perhaps, a dynamic start? Well, maybe up to 20 km/h. But overall, acceleration to 100 km/h is more than 13 seconds, and with a variator, subjectively, it feels like eternity. Secondly, it is completely uncomfortable to travel faster than one hundred kilometers per hour, and in some places, even dangerous (especially in strong crosswinds or passing trucks).
Possibly, ecology and economy? Regarding the former – maybe, although there are doubts. Regarding the economy – for example, a significantly larger 4WD Nissan X-Trail e-4ORCE (may be a 7-seater) consumes 4-4.5 l in a calm mode (not to mention accelerating to 100 in 7 seconds). It is significantly more expensive and this car is from another galaxy? Yes, that’s right, the comparison is not very correct, but now about the cost of the Suzuki Ignis hybrid…
If we do not take into account the promotional price for last year’s car, the starting price is 650,000 UAH with a manual transmission. With a variator – 770,000 UAH. For a hybrid, it is a quite sweet price, isn’t it? But I do not understand the word ‘at all,’ why such a hybrid with such costs, dynamic characteristics, and price? For a rough comparison, for such an amount, you can buy a full-fledged crossover Renault Duster with a diesel engine, which will consume 4.5-5.5 liters per 100 km. And even passenger cars like Hyundai i10, Citroen C3, and other models, which may have a lower ground clearance, but with much better equipment levels.
Because in the test Ignis with roof rails and door claddings, there are neither cameras, nor parking sensors, nor seat heating, nor screens, and not even mirror heating! Didn’t find them? I hope so, but I’ve done everything and searched everywhere. I note that in the price list for 2023-2024, I see a reversing camera, but there was nothing in the test car, and instead of multimedia like in the Suzuki Jimny, there is a ‘rare’ CD player. I am convinced that this is because the car itself is not new (it entered the test fleet before the full-scale invasion) and now the Japanese have added various ‘goodies,’ but my conclusion is that the car is very specific, contradictory, and incomprehensible to most. What most? Those who want a compact, tall, and economical car at a reasonable price.
