Suzuki has thinned out its range by waving the Baleno and Celerio. However, the Ignis still proudly claims its place in the showroom. The compact hipster has recently been even facelifted. Time for a closer acquaintance.
Suzuki Ignis 1.2 Smart Hybrid Comfort
€ 16,750
Who used to want a nice cheap car for it, often knocked on the door at Suzuki for the Alto. The Celerio took over the baton, but has also already waved goodbye. For a really very cheap car, it can no longer be knocked on the door at Suzuki, because with a small € 17,000 for the entry-level Ignis it can be a lot cheaper elsewhere. Whether you will get such a unique carriage, is the question again. With the recent facelift, a subtle broom has been taken through the engine range of the Ignis. The familiar 1.2 petrol engine has been removed and made way for a more efficient Smart Hybrid variant. 83 horsepower hides under the hood. The block is available in combination with a manual or CVT automatic. The manual version is of course the entry-level version.
The list of equipment is made up of three versions: Comfort, Select and Style. The price difference between the cheapest and most expensive version is more than € 5,000. What, then, does Suzuki remove from the Comfort? For the exterior, the brand keeps alloy wheels, roof rails and a widened bumper all around for the more luxurious versions, because the bare-bones variant does not get these accessories. That is a pity, because the 15-inch steel wheels and the bare roof make the Ignis a little less tough. The mirror caps and handles are sprayed in the standard ‘Fervent’ red color and (automatic) LED lighting all around is also a standard feature. The grille also features chrome trim strips while the A and B pillars are finished in contrasting black.
Inside, the differences with the more luxurious versions are more noticeable. But first the positive news: a manual air conditioning and electrically operated mirrors and windows are available with the Comfort. In terms of multimedia, the entry-level player delivers luxury, because the 7-inch touch screen from ‘thicker’ variants is not to be seen in any fields or roads. A simple analog radio fills the space in the center of the dashboard. However, this simpler radio can handle Bluetooth, DAB + radio and CDs. Control buttons are incorporated in the steering wheel. The slightly more luxurious Select (from € 18,250) will receive a reversing camera, electrically heated exterior mirrors and 16-inch alloy wheels in addition to the more luxurious multimedia system with touch screen and Apple CarPlay / Android Auto. The Style naturally goes the extra mile with an automatic air conditioning, key-free start function, navigation and cruise control. Suzuki’s more extensive safety package with radars and brake assistants is also part of the standard equipment. Is that worth the extra cost of at least € 3,000?