Suzuki Vitara AllGrip: Unlocking Its AWD System

The Suzuki Vitara has long been a familiar sight on British roads, known for its practicality, robust build, and compact SUV credentials. While the front-wheel-drive Turbo model offers a compelling package for urban dwellers, the Vitara Turbo AllGrip takes things a step further, promising enhanced capability beyond the tarmac. But how exactly does this all-wheel-drive system work, and what benefits does it bring to the everyday driver or the occasional adventurer? This article delves into the intricacies of Suzuki's AllGrip technology, exploring its functionality, its impact on the Vitara's driving dynamics, and whether it’s the right choice for your motoring needs.

Understanding the AllGrip System

At its heart, the Suzuki Vitara Turbo AllGrip employs an 'on-demand' all-wheel-drive system, designed to intelligently distribute power between the front and rear wheels as circumstances dictate. This is not a permanent four-wheel-drive setup, but rather one that engages the rear axle only when additional traction is required. For most everyday driving, especially on dry, stable surfaces, the Vitara AllGrip operates primarily as a front-wheel-drive vehicle, optimising fuel efficiency.

The Core Mechanics of AllGrip

The technical wizardry behind the AllGrip system involves a propeller shaft that connects the front drivetrain to an additional rear differential. When the system detects the onset of front wheel spin – perhaps due to slippery conditions, rapid acceleration, or loose surfaces – it seamlessly transfers power to the rear wheels. This engagement is managed by a viscous coupling, ensuring a smooth and almost imperceptible transition. The beauty of an on-demand system like this is its ability to provide enhanced grip precisely when it's needed, without the constant mechanical drag and complexity of a full-time AWD system.

AllGrip's Driving Modes Explained

One of the key features that sets the AllGrip system apart is its user-selectable driving modes, accessed via a rotating dial conveniently located on the centre console. These modes allow the driver to tailor the vehicle's behaviour to specific driving conditions:

• Auto Mode: This is the default setting for everyday driving. In Auto mode, the system primarily operates in front-wheel drive, switching to all-wheel drive automatically when it detects wheel slip. It's designed for optimal fuel efficiency while providing a safety net of additional traction when unexpected conditions arise, such as sudden rain or light gravel.
• Snow Mode: As the name suggests, this mode is specifically engineered for low-grip surfaces like snow, ice, or unpaved roads. When Snow mode is selected, the system gives the rear wheels more authority than in Auto mode, proactively engaging them to improve traction and stability. This helps to prevent wheel spin and maintains better control during acceleration and cornering in challenging winter conditions.
• Lock Mode: This is the most aggressive setting, designed for maximum grip in challenging off-road situations. In Lock mode, power is fed evenly between the front and rear axles, essentially simulating a locked differential through electronic control. This ensures that both front and rear wheels receive consistent power, helping the vehicle to extricate itself from deep mud, sand, or when traversing very uneven terrain. It's important to note that Lock mode is typically intended for low-speed use and should not be engaged on dry, hard surfaces.

Performance and Handling with AllGrip

While the AllGrip system undoubtedly enhances the Vitara's traction capabilities, it's important to consider its impact on overall performance and handling. The additional components required for the all-wheel-drive system naturally add weight to the vehicle. The Suzuki Vitara Turbo AllGrip weighs in at 1235kg, approximately 75kg heavier than its front-wheel-drive Turbo counterpart (1160kg). This increased mass, while not drastically altering the car's character, does mean the AllGrip model is marginally slower in acceleration. However, this difference is often negligible in real-world driving conditions.

Fuel Economy and Weight Considerations

The added weight and the occasional engagement of the all-wheel-drive system mean that the Vitara Turbo AllGrip is slightly less fuel-efficient than the front-wheel-drive model. While the claimed ADR Combined figure for the AllGrip is 6.2 L/100km compared to the Turbo's 5.9 L/100km, real-world testing has shown a slightly larger disparity. Our observations indicated an average of 7.1 L/100km for the AllGrip over a week of driving, compared to a best of 6.9 L/100km for the front-drive Turbo. This marginal increase in fuel consumption is a trade-off for the enhanced traction and versatility that the AllGrip system provides. It's also worth noting that Suzuki recommends 95 RON premium unleaded fuel for the turbo models, though E10 is acceptable.

On-Road Dynamics and Off-Road Limitations

On the road, the Vitara AllGrip maintains the competent and composed ride quality characteristic of the Vitara range. It features an all-coil suspension system with MacPherson struts at the front and a torsion-beam arrangement at the rear. While the ride can tend towards firm, it generally copes well with most road surface imperfections. The steering is light, making it easy to manoeuvre in urban environments and car parks, further aided by a tight 10.4-metre turning circle and excellent all-round visibility.

Despite its all-wheel-drive capabilities, it's crucial to understand that the Vitara Turbo AllGrip is not designed to be a hardcore off-roader. With an average ground clearance of 185mm and standard road tyres, it's best suited for light off-road trails, gravel roads, and challenging weather conditions rather than serious rock crawling or deep mud. The hill-descent control feature does add an extra layer of confidence when tackling steep, slippery descents, but the vehicle's limitations should always be respected to avoid getting stuck or causing damage.

Interior Features and Practicality

Beyond its mechanical distinctions, the Vitara Turbo AllGrip shares much of its premium interior features with the front-wheel-drive Turbo variant. Both are well-equipped, boasting sat-nav, climate control, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity, auto-on LED headlights, and up-spec fake leather/suede seat trim. However, the AllGrip model adds a desirable panoramic sunroof, which significantly enhances the cabin's airy feel. This comes with a slight compromise, as the sunroof can intrude slightly on rear passenger headroom, particularly for taller occupants. Additionally, the AllGrip uniquely features a practical sunglasses holder above the rear-view mirror.

In terms of practicality, the Vitara remains a space-efficient small SUV. Its boxy design contributes to a reasonably spacious load area, offering a competitive 1120 litres of luggage space with the rear seats folded. There's also a thoughtful underfloor storage compartment for stashing away valuables or keeping the boot tidy. The 60/40 split-fold rear backrest adds versatility for various passenger and cargo configurations. While cabin quality has seen improvements in the latest version, some materials may still feel a little flimsy, and there's a noticeable amount of hard plastic trim, though the soft-touch upper-dash is a welcome addition.

Safety Technology

Safety is a paramount concern, and both the Vitara Turbo and Turbo AllGrip models are comprehensively equipped. They feature a suite of advanced safety technologies as standard, including Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), adaptive cruise control (which is noted for its effectiveness even on descents), lane-departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and driver attention detection. These features contribute to the Vitara's five-star ANCAP safety rating, awarded in 2015. While safety standards have evolved, the extensive active safety suite in these premium variants suggests they would likely continue to perform well.

Engine and Transmission

Under the bonnet of both the Vitara Turbo and Turbo AllGrip lies a responsive 1.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine. This compact yet potent powerplant delivers 103kW of power and a healthy 220Nm of torque. A key characteristic of this engine is its strong torque delivery from a remarkably low 1500rpm, ensuring immediate and accessible power with minimal discernible turbo lag. This makes for confident overtaking and effortless cruising. The engine is smoothly mated to a conventional six-speed automatic transmission, which also features paddle shifters for manual gear selection, allowing drivers to take more control when desired. This combination provides a torquey and refined driving experience, well-suited to the Vitara's character.

Suzuki Vitara Turbo vs. Turbo AllGrip Comparison

To help you decide which Vitara variant best suits your needs, here's a comparative overview:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the Suzuki Vitara AllGrip a true off-roader?

While the Suzuki Vitara AllGrip offers enhanced traction and versatility compared to its two-wheel-drive counterpart, it is not a dedicated off-road vehicle like some traditional 4x4s. Its "on-demand" all-wheel-drive system, combined with an average ground clearance of 185mm and standard road tyres, makes it excellent for tackling challenging weather conditions, slippery roads, gravel tracks, or light trails. However, for serious off-road adventures involving deep mud, large obstacles, or extreme articulation, its capabilities are limited. It's best thought of as a highly capable compact SUV that provides extra confidence in adverse conditions rather than a rugged bush basher.

What are the benefits of the AllGrip system?

The primary benefit of the AllGrip system is significantly improved traction and stability in low-grip situations. This translates to greater safety and confidence when driving on wet roads, snow, ice, or loose surfaces like gravel. The system's ability to automatically distribute power to the wheels with the most grip helps prevent wheel spin and maintains control. Furthermore, the selectable driving modes (Auto, Snow, Lock) allow the driver to optimise the vehicle's performance for specific conditions, offering a level of adaptability not found in standard two-wheel-drive vehicles. For those living in areas with challenging weather or who frequently venture onto unpaved roads, the AllGrip system provides considerable peace of mind.

Does the AllGrip system require special maintenance?

Generally, the AllGrip system in the Suzuki Vitara is designed for reliability and doesn't require significantly more complex maintenance than a front-wheel-drive vehicle. However, as it includes additional components like a propeller shaft and a rear differential, these parts will require periodic inspection and fluid changes as per Suzuki's recommended service schedule. It's always advisable to adhere strictly to the manufacturer's servicing guidelines to ensure the longevity and optimal performance of the AllGrip system. Any unusual noises or vibrations from the drivetrain should be promptly investigated by a qualified mechanic.

Conclusion

The Suzuki Vitara Turbo AllGrip remains a compelling option in the competitive small SUV segment for those seeking enhanced traction and versatility. Its intelligent 'on-demand' all-wheel-drive system, coupled with user-selectable driving modes, provides a significant boost in confidence and capability when conditions turn challenging. While it carries a modest weight and fuel economy penalty compared to its front-wheel-drive sibling, the added assurance and the inclusion of features like the panoramic sunroof make the £4000 price premium understandable for many. Although the Vitara's platform may be feeling its age against newer rivals, the AllGrip system ensures it still offers a robust, practical, and surprisingly capable package for the discerning British motorist.

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