Suzuki Ignis vs Gac Emzoom
What's the difference?

Suzuki Ignis

$10,990 - $20,990

2021 price

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Gac Emzoom

$22,590 - $29,990

2026 price

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Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class

Mini Countryman

Mitsubishi ASX

Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross

Summary

2021 Suzuki Ignis

2026 Gac Emzoom

By Byron Mathioudakis

By Emily Agar

Safety Rating

Engine Type

Inline 4, 1.2L

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Fuel Type

Premium Unleaded Petrol

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Fuel Efficiency

4.9L/100km (combined)

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Seating

Likes

Striking design
Superb agility
Ease of operation

Premium-looking interior
Cutesy roadside presence
Good features for price

Dislikes

No AEB, DAB+ and telescopic steering
Stiff ride, noisy cabin
Poor EuroNCAP crash-test rating

Clunky transmission
Spongy brake-feel
Ill-calibrated safety tech

2021 Suzuki Ignis Summary

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.

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2026 Gac Emzoom Summary

GAC might still be a new name to a lot of Aussie new car buyers, but the Emzoom Luxury isn’t here to quietly blend in. It’s sharply styled, keenly priced and carries just enough attitude to turn a few heads - which is a good start in a crowded small SUV segment.

It also keeps things simple. There’s just the one trim level on offer locally, and it comes in swinging against some well-established rivals like the GWM Haval Jolion Premium, Kia Seltos Sport+ and MG ZS Vibe Turbo.

But standing out on paper is one thing, backing it up with enough personality to stay interesting over time is another.

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Deep dive comparison

2021 Suzuki Ignis 2026 Gac Emzoom

Verdict

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.

Verdict

GAC isn’t messing around with the Emzoom Luxury. It’s undeniably eye-catching, priced well and carries just enough of a premium aesthetic to draw attention.

Is it the best small SUV I’ve driven? No. It does enough to avoid being overlooked, but it’s not quite reinventing the wheel.

What it does well is deliver a comfortable, easy urban runaround with strong equipment for the price. However, the safety calibration and overall breadth of systems feel like areas that still need attention.

All up, it gets a lot right for the money, but doesn’t quite land a knockout punch.

Suzuki Ignis vs Gac Emzoom What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

Suzuki Ignis vs Gac Emzoom
What's the difference?