Suzuki Vitara IV (LY) (2015 – 2025)

Reliability score : 8.6/10

The fourth-generation Suzuki Vitara (LY) marks a radical turning point in the model's history. Abandoning the ladder frame chassis and reduction gears of its predecessors for a lightweight monocoque platform (shared with the S-Cross), it positions itself as a versatile urban/compact SUV (B-SUV). Launched in 2015, it benefited from a first facelift in 2018 (abandonment of the 1.6 atmospheric engine in favor of Boosterjet turbo engines, interior material improvements) and a major technical update in 2020 with the introduction of 48V mild-hybridization, followed by a 'Strong Hybrid' version in 2022. A second aesthetic and technological facelift occurred in 2024. Renowned for its price/performance ratio, its contained weight (often under 1.2 tons), and the efficiency of its AllGrip all-wheel d

✅ Strengths

Exceptional overall mechanical reliability (especially M16A, K14C, and K14D gasoline engines).
Very efficient and affordable AllGrip all-wheel drive system.
Very low weight (often < 1200 kg) promoting agility and low fuel consumption.
Reduced maintenance cost and timing chain on all gasoline engines.
Simple ergonomics and retained physical controls (air conditioning).

⚠️ Weaknesses

Quality of interior plastics (hard, scratch-prone) and sometimes flimsy assemblies (squeaks and rattles).
Imperfect sound insulation (wind and road noise on the highway).
Very thin and fragile paintwork (prone to stone chips and micro-scratches).
Dated, slow infotainment system (Bosch) and screen prone to touch bugs on phase 1 models.
Very disappointing driving experience with the AGS automated manual gearbox on the 1.5 Strong Hybrid version.

🎯 Verdict

The Suzuki Vitara IV is a pragmatic and extremely rational choice. If you are looking for a compact, lightweight SUV, capable of venturing off the beaten path (in AllGrip version) and boasting above-average mechanical reliability, it is an excellent candidate. The expert's choice: Definitely favor gasoline engines. The 1.4 Boosterjet (140 hp or 129 hp MHEV) is the best compromise, offering superior driving pleasure and flawless reliability. The 1.6 VVT atmospheric engine from the early years is a rock for tighter budgets. To avoid: The 1.5 Dualjet Hybrid (Strong Hybrid) version, whose AGS gearbox spoils driving pleasure, as well as the 1.6 DDiS if you don't exclusively drive on highways.