I think it takes a lot to beat a small car for happy motoring and test driving the Suzuki Ignis, I soon fell in love with this distinctively clever Japanese car. The model on test was the 1.2 SHVS SZ5 4W which features a mild hybrid system (SHVS) and also (4W) four-wheel drive “All Grip” technology.

SHVS (Smart Hybrid Vehicle by Suzuki) technology works by using an Integrated Starter Generator (ISG) – basically a starter motor and generator in one. The ISG generates electricity through regenerative braking and during coasting (like a Formula 1 car) to charge a compact lithium-ion battery under the passenger seat.

Fuel economy is amazing
Power from this battery is then used to assist the 4-cylinder 1.2-litre Dualjet Euro 6 engine during take-off and to add power during acceleration. The ISG unit has a power output of 2.3kW and a torque figure of 50Nm. With this mild hybrid system the fuel economy of the Suzuki Ignis is amazing at 60.1mpg combined. The SHVS also features an advanced engine start-stop which cuts the supply of fuel as soon as the car begins to decelerate.

The powertrain is linked to a five-speed manual gearbox, as standard on all Suzuki Ignis, and the gear ratios are fully optimised for performance and fuel economy. You can select the optional AGS system if you prefer an automatic box.

Dashboard wise, the Ignis features easy to use switches, including two USB charge ports and also a 12v charging port which is well placed to ensure items being charged don’t hinder gear changes. The premium leather steering wheel features all the controls you need, and there is perfect visibility from the driving position. Air-con, DAB radio and Bluetooth are all standard.

The Suzuki Ignis dial display is beautifully clear with not only traditional speed and revs, but also time, temperature, fuel, average speed, etc. There is a battery display which lights up to show when the ISG unit is regenerating power.

The 4-wheel drive “All Grip” technology is something I really liked on this SZ5 car and it’s ideal for winter. A viscous coupling is used to transfer extra torque to the rear wheels when needed. The Suzuki Ignis features both Hill Descent Control, which switches on when traveling on an incline at under approximately 15mph in first or second gear, and Grip Control, which activates at speeds of less than 18mph, focusing power on the driven wheels that have grip and braking to the ones that are spinning.

A great partner at night
Ignis is a great partner at night with “guide me lights” which allow you to set your dipped beam headlights to remain on for up to 25 seconds after the car has been locked – giving you enough time and light to open the front door to your home.

The feature rich Suzuki Ignis 1.2 SHVS SZ5 4W feels a bargain at £14,499 (on the road) and all new Suzuki models are covered by a 3 year/60,000 mile new vehicle warranty and one year’s AA Suzuki Assistance.