The closely related Suzuki Vitara Brezza and (first generation) Toyota Urban Cruiser were only on the SA market for a short time, but proved immensely popular. We take a look at both models and also mention two competing options for comparison.
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Aside from their badging and some cosmetic differences, Suzuki’s Vitara Brezza and Toyota Urban Cruiser are essentially the same vehicle. Born from a marriage between the two car giants, both share the basis of the Brezza. However, with the discontinuation of the Brezza in 2023, a noticeable gap emerged in both manufacturers’ portfolios. The new Urban Cruiser is now based on Suzuki’s larger Grand Vitara, while the Baleno-based Fronx replaces the Vitara Brezza. On the Toyota side, this model carries the Starlet Cross emblem.
But back to the two compact SUVs in question. Although neither is available for sale anymore, their two-year stint in South Africa was a huge sales success, with more than 11,000 Brezzas and almost 26,000 Urban Cruisers sold between 2021 and 2022.
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Both are powered by Suzuki’s trusted K15B petrol engine. This naturally aspirated unit is used in several Suzuki products, including the adventurous Jimny. In the Brezza and Urban Cruiser, the engine is tuned to deliver 77 kW and 138 Nm, and is mated to a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. With a curb weight of 1,140 kg, they are among the lighter crossovers available, but the engine does sometimes fail on a slope, especially when loaded with five passengers and their luggage.
The Vitara Brezza was offered in three trim levels at launch: GL and GLX. But with the vehicle’s first local anniversary in 2022, Suzuki opted to launch an S-Edition. This new model was based on the GL, but offered a host of sporty styling accessories. Owners of the Vitara Brezza range were treated to a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, a reversing camera, Bluetooth and auxiliary and USB inputs.
Toyota launched five Urban Cruiser models at launch; Xi, Xs and Xr specification, available with manual or automatic transmission. The Toyota had a minimal premium over the Suzuki on which it was based, but the Xr models were the best choice. As a flagship model, it came standard with items such as LED fog lights, automatic headlights, rain-sensing wipers and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.
Despite the vehicles’ shared mechanical heritage, Toyota and Suzuki provided respective warranties. The Urban Cruiser was sold with a 3-service/45,000 km maintenance plan and a 3-year/100,000 km warranty, while the Vitara Brezza came with a 4-year/60,000 km maintenance plan and a 5-year/200,000 km maintenance plan. km warranty. Considering that both vehicles left the South African market last year, purchasing a used option today will ensure that most potential buyers will still benefit from the balances of these plans.
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While no major problems have been reported on either vehicle, owners should be aware of rough engine idling when starting, which could be due to a faulty water pump. There have also been reports of problems engaging reverse gear on some Indian-built Suzuki models, including the Brezza, although this is more of an inconvenience than a major fault. The reverse gear is not equipped with a synchronizer, so if the lever does not fit easily into the gate, you can completely re-engage the clutch or shift first into reverse and then back into reverse, after which it should engage. Any mechanical repairs should be covered by each vehicle’s mechanical warranty, provided the vehicle is still running. In terms of vehicle maintenance and mechanical repairs where necessary, the Right to Repair Act provides that owners can have their vehicle serviced at the gas station of their choice. However, if a vehicle is still under its original warranty, an OEM is not obligated to guarantee repairs or services performed outside the dealer network. This applies to both the Vitara Brezza and Urban Cruiser. Time to look at some rivals…
Chery Tiggo 4 Pro
In 2021, Chery re-entered the South African market, with the Tiggo 4 Pro leading the product offensive. Suddenly, South Africans were treated to a vehicle that 1) made a big difference to cars Chery was selling locally before it first came off the market, and 2) offered a range of features normally found on more expensive vehicles.
At launch, the range consisted of five models, all powered by a 1.5-litre petrol engine. The naturally aspirated version had outputs of 83kW and 138Nm, while the turbocharged version had 108kW/210Nm. Power was routed to the road via a 5 or 6-speed manual gearbox or a 9-speed CVT. The main Elite SE models (launch price R359 900) offered a comprehensive package with a 10.25-inch touchscreen and voice command system. By simply saying “Hi Chery”, users can control the windows, climate control, volume control and sunroof, among other things.
Although the Tiggo 4 Pro offers good value for money on paper, the car is not without flaws. Whether it’s the electronics, the powertrain, the build quality or the higher-than-claimed fuel economy, potential owners should scrutinize the SUV’s service history. In addition, owners have complained about the lack of spare parts. This is linked to dissatisfaction with after-sales service and support, and delays in local parts availability – an issue that continues three years after Chery’s re-launch in South Africa.
Owners considering the Tiggo 4 Pro, or any other Chery product, as a used purchase should be aware that the 10-year/1,000,000 km engine warranty applies to the original owner only. A Tiggo 4 Pro on the used car market has the remainder of the original 5-year/60,000 km maintenance plan and the 5-year/150,000 km warranty. Also note that in later years Chery moved away from the maintenance plan and only offered a service plan.
Volkswagen T-Cross
Since 2019, the T-Cross has been a standout product in Volkswagen’s local portfolio. Based on the popular Polo, the SUV came onto the market with a higher ride height, a spacious cabin and the proven VW mechanicals. A 1.0 TSI (70 kW, 85 kW) and a 1.5 TSI (110 kW) – both turbocharged petrol engines – powered the range, available with manual or automatic transmission. Like the Polo, the T-Cross is also built on the VW Group’s MQB A0 platform that underpins several VW, Audi and Skoda products.
The original T-Cross range consisted of Trendline, Comfortline and Highline trim levels, each offering items that matched the name. In the top-spec Highline, owners were treated to comfortable sports seats, wireless smartphone charging, selection of powertrain settings, LED headlights and 18-inch alloy wheels. Although the standard package was extensive, the options list included a 300-watt with 8-channel amplifier and subwoofer Beats sound system, adaptive cruise control, keyless entry and a detachable tow bar. The most affordable model at the time was the 70kW Comfortline, which retailed for less than R300,000.
Despite its popularity, owners have noticed some problems. The start/stop system may fail to engage and disengage, which is attributed to a possible software glitch in the sensor error. The 1.0-litre engine is also prone to excessive oil consumption, but this can be traced to everything from worn piston rings to problems with the PCV (positive crankcase ventilation) valves. When sticking with the 1.0 TSI, potential owners are encouraged to pay close attention to the turbocharger. Parts of this item have been known to fail, but this is covered by the vehicle’s mechanical warranty. Signs to look for include loss of power, excessive smoke from the exhaust, and/or unusual noises from the engine compartment.
You will find the full article in the November issue of CAR Magazine.
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