What's the difference?
When the BMW iX first showed up a few years ago, it was a promising look at what BMW seemed capable of when it comes to electric cars.
While mildly flawed, the iX was fast, comfortable and felt properly premium. Now it’s had a decent update, with the iX xDrive45 M Sport here to replace the former entry-level xDrive 40.
BMW claims among other mechanical and tech updates a power increase of 25 per cent, a 30 per cent greater energy content for the battery, a 38 per cent increase in driving range and a 17 per cent faster charging rate.
But in the time since the iX launched, there have been big strides in the premium electric SUV space, including new arrivals from European opposition like the Polestar 3; even a new American in the form of the Cadillac Lyriq.
Welcome to one of the world’s tiniest SUVs, as well as amongst Australia’s cheapest – Suzuki’s diminutive Ignis.
There’s an Aussie connection. Holden designer Peter Hughes styled the original YG Cruze based on the first (FH) Ignis of 2000, with both models sharing most components underneath; but the latter was not well received, prompting Suzuki to change tack for its reborn Swift replacement of 2004. Yet the name and concept were revived 11 years later (without GMH) for the retro-themed high-riding hatch/crossover you see here today.
The point? This quick history lesson serves to remind us how similar both Ignis generations are, as well as how devoted Suzuki is in its pursuit of owning the light SUV space.
In June 2020, a facelifted MF arrived, brandishing a revised grille, bumpers and trim to give it a chunkier appearance, along with minor spec changes.
Here we take a long look at the GLX auto.
If anyone was worried that it would be too late to get a decent bit of value out of an entry-level iX, there's reassuring news.
With more power, range and features added to the model and the cost remaining close to its former sticker price, the iX has held up well despite now existing in a more competitive environment.
With statement styling, inherent agility, excellent efficiency, proven reliability, high equipment levels and low entry pricing, the 2021 Ignis GLX is in danger of becoming a mandatory short-list proposition for people seeking fun and affordable motoring.
But undermining all that is a distinct lack of driver-assist safety tech that can’t be – and shouldn’t be – ignored. At least give buyers the option of paying more for essentials like AEB.
If Suzuki can address this shortfall, the Ignis would join its excellent Swift supermini stablemate in being a very compelling and enjoyable compact urban runabout. We hope this happens sooner rather than later.