The Suzuki Vitara has all the essentials but it is not especially well-equipped for a $40,000-plus SUV.

The base 2WD version includes seven airbags and advanced driver-assist system tech like AEB, lane-keep, blind-spot and rear-cross-traffic alert, as well as a adaptive cruise control, a reverse camera, automatic air-conditioning, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity, Bluetooth connectivity, rear privacy glass, cloth seats, 17-inch alloy wheels and a space-saver spare wheel.

Moving up to the 'AllGrip' AWD version adds all-wheel drive, a panoramic sunroof, larger central touchscreen, improved audio and synthetic leather upholstery, among other items.

The Suzuki Vitara has a roomy and practical interior by small SUV standards, relying on its square, upright shape to provide plenty of cabin space.

Deep windows offer plenty of vision out, aided by lofty seating and a good driving position. Access to all the major switchgear is easy.

The dashboard has not changed much since the LY series debuted in Australia back in 2015, meaning it has a dated and old-fashioned layout.

At least the hard plastics are proven to be hard wearing.

A central touchscreen is fitted, offering a 7.0-inch or 9.0-inch display depending on whether it’s the base 2WD or 'AllGrip' AWD model.

Storage is sufficient, ventilation is ample and the build quality is A-OK.

Further back, the Vitara’s rear seat is simple to access, but there are few amenities other than overhead grab handles. Storage is poor back there, while there are no USB-C ports accessible unless you’re sat up front.

The Suzuki Vitara is a five-seater small SUV.

The front seats are of the bucket variety, offering multiple adjustment options.

The rear seats have a fixed base, so it does not slide forward, while a 60/40 split folding backrest increases cargo capacity by extending into the passenger compartment.

Cloth seats are standard, whilst the 'AllGrip' all-wheel drive version switches to an synthetic leather upholstery.

The Suzuki Vitara Turbo Hybrid can accelerate from standstill to 100km/h in around 9.5 seconds, on the way to a top speed of about 180km/h.

The Vitara Turbo Hybrid 2WD returns a combined average 5.8 litres per 100km, while the AWD version is rated at 5.9L/100km. This equates to between 130 grams and 139g/km of carbon-dioxide emissions respectively.

Filling the 47L fuel tank with the required 95 RON premium-unleaded petrol, expect to average around 810km of range.