Suzuki Auto South Africa has expanded its budget-friendly arsenal with the arrival of the fourth-generation Dzire, a compact sedan designed to offer a bit more than just affordable transport. With updated styling, a new three-cylinder engine, a surprisingly generous features list, and the brand’s trusted reputation for low running costs, the new Dzire enters the local market with quiet confidence.
Sharper Design with Real Presence
Suzuki’s designers have dialled in a more confident and contemporary look for the new Dzire. Up front, there’s a broad grille—matte black on GA models and piano black with a chrome garnish on GL+—flanked by slim projector-style halogen headlights.
The side profile is clean and cohesive, helped along by a raked windscreen, electric folding mirrors, a shark-fin antenna, and a short rear overhang. GL+ models up the style quotient with black 15-inch alloys and a chrome-accented boot strip connecting the new T-style LED taillights.
A broad palette of seven pearl and metallic colours is available, including standouts like Alluring Blue and Nutmeg Brown.
Well-Equipped Cabin with Swift Inspiration
Inside, the Dzire borrows its dashboard design from the fourth-generation Swift, giving it a clean layout with a driver-focused centre console. Finished in a two-tone beige and black scheme, the cabin feels more upmarket than expected at this price point.
Practical touches are plentiful: digital aircon, electric windows, height-adjustable driver’s seat, smartphone storage trays, and USB ports (including Type-C at the rear). There’s also a generous 378 litres of boot space, more than enough for family trips or airport runs.
Move up to the GL+ model and you get cruise control, a 7-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a reverse camera, and a multifunction steering wheel—all rare finds in this price bracket.
Small Engine, Big Efficiency
The new Dzire is powered by a fresh 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol engine (Z12E) producing 60kW and 112Nm. Lighter and more compact than the outgoing four-cylinder unit, it promises lively performance and a claimed combined fuel consumption of just 4.4L/100km. Buyers can choose between a 5-speed manual (with auto stop/start) or a CVT.
Suzuki’s lightweight HEARTECT platform, shared with the Swift, ensures solid structural rigidity and nimble handling. Revised suspension settings aim to deliver a comfortable ride without dulling the driving experience—something we look forward to evaluating first-hand.
Safety Where It Counts
Suzuki hasn’t cut corners on safety. All Dzire models come with six airbags, ABS with EBD, brake assist, electronic stability control, rear parking sensors, and ISOFIX anchors. It also scored a five-star adult occupant safety rating in Global NCAP testing—impressive for a car in this class.
Initial Impressions
While we haven’t had the opportunity to drive the new Dzire yet, the spec sheet, design, and efficiency claims point to a compelling offering in the compact sedan space. With generous features, solid safety credentials, and Suzuki’s proven value proposition, the Dzire looks set to be a strong player in its segment.
More information will be shared once we’ve had the opportunity to drive and test the new Suzuki Dzire. Stay tuned for a full road review.