Suzuki Ignis Review 2026
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Suzuki Ignis Verdict
Distinctive styling. Affordable to buy. Low running costs. Available with all-wheel drive. Surprisingly spacious rear seats.
AGS automatic is a five-speed automated manual rather than a proper auto. Not available with the excellent 1.0 BoosterJet engine. Some flimsy interior plastics.
Find out more about the Suzuki Ignis
Insurance Groups are between 11–21
On average it achieves 93% of the official MPG figure
With its distinctive styling, cleverly packaged interior layout and economical 1.2-litre petrol engine, the Suzuki Ignis is a surprisingly sensible alternative to city cars like the Volkswagen Up. But it also provides an extra bit of crossover character and - surprisingly - the option of all-wheel drive for those who need a small 4x4 with some (but not lots of) off-road capability.
Despite being very compact in size, the Ignis has a spacious cabin. There's enough head and shoulder room in the back row for a couple of adults to sit in reasonable comfort and boot space is respectable for such a little car, at 267 litres. That's enough for trips to the shops, plus the rear seats can be folded to increase capacity to 1100 litres - though they don't fold flat.
The Ignis comes with a 90PS 1.2-litre petrol engine that's shared with the Swift, available with or without a simple hybrid system. Called SHVS, this adds an integrated electric motor that helps with acceleration. It provides slight economy and emissions improvements, but even without SHVS the 1.2 is a fun, revvy and surprisingly economical engine with a good reliability record.
It might be a perky performer, but the steering isn't great and there's some body roll through bends. The suspension provides a reasonable level of ride comfort, but over rougher and broken road surfaces it can feel harsh and uncomfortable. It's not bad, but nor is the Ignis as sharp or as fun to drive as the Volkswagen Up and its counterparts from Skoda and SEAT.
It is well equipped though. Even the basic SZ3 comes with air-conditioning, DAB radio, USB connectivity and Bluetooth. But we'd go for the SZ-T, since it isn't much more expensive and adds alloy wheels, touchscreen system with navigation, a reversing camera and chunkier styling, thanks to roof rails. Top models gain luxuries like keyless entry, climate control and cruise control, along with active safety technlogy.
If you want to avoid the typical small hatchback choices, the Ignis is a quirky-looking alternative with more character than its rivals. But it's also well-priced, well-equipped and cheap to run, so as outside choices go it's very sensible. It might not be quite as good to drive as an Up, but there's still plenty to recommend.
Reviews for Suzuki Ignis's top 3 rivals
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Suzuki Ignis handling and engines
- Engines range from 1.2 Dualjet SHVS Automatic to 1.2 Dualjet SHVS
- Readers report Real MPG to be between 45–66 mpg
The Suzuki Ignis is only available with one engine choice - a 1.2-litre petrol with 90PS. In its basic form it has an official economy figure of more than 60mpg and low emissions of 104g/km - but there's also a hybrid version. Called SHVS, it uses an integrated electric motor to take some strain off the engine when accelerating, which improves economy. With SHVS emissions drop to under 100g/km and official economy improves to more than 65mpg.
The hybrid system has the added benefit of providing slightly better acceleration, but when on the move there isn't a huge amount of difference between the two - they're both revvy and characterful, with enough power in reserve to get past slow-moving traffic and to cruise on the motorway.
Unusually for such a small car, the Ignis is available with all-wheel drive. It costs an additional £1000 and while it won't make the Ignis into an unstoppable off-roader, if you live in a colder part of the country or have rural tracks to traverse, it might be a worthwhile option. However, for most drivers the front-wheel drive model will be fine.
Around town the Ignis is great thanks to its compact size, but the ride quality isn't very good, thumping over poor surfaces and potholes. The steering adapts to the speed, so it's light when parking or performing a u-turn, but weights up when out of town. Unfortunately at more than about 40mph it feels a bit too numb to provide much enjoyment on a country road.
Body roll is quite apparent through twists and turns too. For fun B-road driving the Volkswagen Up and its equivalents from SEAT and Skoda are better. It's not all bad, though - the Ignis is surprisingly stable and quiet at motorway speeds, so it's possible to pass trucks with confidence - and if you go for a top model there's cruise control to make long trips easier.
An automatic transmission is available, but it's an AGS automated manual, which means it is a bit on the slow side when it comes to gear changes. It can be jerky and unpredictable, so while it should do the job for buyers who need an automatic, it will probably prove disappointing for those who want one for the convenience they provide around town.
Some advanced safety features, including lane keep assistance and automatic emergency braking, are available - but sadly if you want them you'll have to opt for the top trim level. That's a shame, because with those options installed the car scores five stars in Euro NCAP testing. Without them it only scores three.
| Engine | MPG | 0-62 | CO2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.2 Dualjet | 60–61 mpg | 11.8 s | 104 g/km |
| 1.2 Dualjet Automatic | 59–61 mpg | 11.8 s | 104 g/km |
| 1.2 Dualjet SHVS | 61–66 mpg | 11.4–12.7 s | 89–97 g/km |
| 1.2 Dualjet SHVS 4x4 | 60–61 mpg | 11.1–12.8 s | 89–106 g/km |
| 1.2 Dualjet SHVS Automatic | - | 12.4 s | 97 g/km |
Real MPG average for the Suzuki Ignis
Real MPG was created following thousands of readers telling us that their cars could not match the official figures.
Real MPG gives real world data from drivers like you to show how much fuel a vehicle really uses.
Average performance
93%
Real MPG
45–66 mpg
MPGs submitted
82
Suzuki Ignis interior
- Boot space is 260–1100 litres
- Euro NCAP rating of three stars
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length | 3700 mm |
| Width | 1660–1690 mm |
| Height | 1595–1605 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2435 mm |
Despite being very small on the outside, the Suzuki Ignis has a surprisingly spacious cabin. There is space in the back row for a pair of adults and headroom isn't bad, thanks to the tall, SUV-inspired styling. What's more, if you pick SZ-T or SZ5 trim the rear seats slide and recline, so occupants can choose between legroom and boot space depending on what you need to carry.
The boot itself is a decent size for a small car at 267 litres, which is a touch bigger than the Volkswagen Up. It might not be big enough for visits to a certain Swedish furniture shop, but for weekly shopping trips it will do the job - and if you need to carry more then the rear seats fold, freeing up 1100 litres. Sadly, in this configuration the load deck isn't flat, so it's not ideal for bulky objects.
Up front the Ignis has the same sturdy build quality as other Suzuki models, though there are a few flimsy parts like the cup holders. It might not be quite as fanciful or plush as some cars, but it's cutely styled and should stand the test of time. It's also livened up by a two-tone colour scheme instead of the usual Suzuki approach of pairing black to black and more black.
Go for mid-grade SZ-T and you'll get a touchscreen system with navigation and a reversing camera. It's not the slickest touchscreen system in the world, but equally it isn't particularly complicated to get used to, though it could be more responsive. Even if you go for the basic model you'll still get DAB Radio and Bluetooth connectivity, along with a USB port and air conditioning.
Standard Equipment from launch:
SZ3 models get 15-inch steel wheels, body coloured bumpers and wing mirrors, electric door mirrors, chrome door handles, daytime running lights, manual air conditioning, remote fuel lid opener, tyre repair kit, x2 ISOFIX child seat anchorages, centre storage box, DAB audio, Bluetooth, USB connector and 60/40 split folding rear seats.
SZ-T adds 16-inch alloy wheels, wheel arch extensions, roof rails, hill hold control, driver’s seat height adjustment, reclining and sliding rear seats which split 50/50 when folded, rear parking camera and touchscreen navigation.
SZ5 trim also includes black and chrome front grille, door mirrors with built-in indicators, LED daytime running lights, LED projector headlights, front fog lights, automatic climate control, electric rear windows, front audio speaker tweeters and seatback pockets.
Suzuki Ignis models and specs
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length | 3700 mm |
| Width | 1660–1690 mm |
| Height | 1595–1605 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2435 mm |
| Miscellaneous | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight | 855–940 kg |
| Boot Space | 260–1100 L |
| Warranty | 3 years / 60000 miles |
| Servicing | 12500 miles |
| Costs | |
|---|---|
| List Price | £10,103–£15,493 |
| Insurance Groups | 11–21 |
| Road Tax Bands | A–B |
| Official MPG | 58.8–65.7 mpg |
| Euro NCAP Safety Ratings | |
|---|---|
| Adult | - |
| Child | - |
| Pedestrian | - |
| Overall | 3 |
Currently on sale
| Hatchback | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| SZ3 Dualjet SHVS MHEV Start/Stop 5dr | - | - | 12.7 s |
| SZ5 Allgrip Dualjet SHVS Allgrip MHEV Start/Stop 5dr | - | - | 12.8 s |
| SZ5 Dualjet SHVS MHEV Auto Start/Stop 5dr | - | - | 12.4 s |
| SZ5 Dualjet SHVS MHEV Start/Stop 5dr | - | - | 12.7 s |
| SZ-T Dualjet SHVS MHEV Auto Start/Stop 5dr | - | - | 12.4 s |
| SZ-T Dualjet SHVS MHEV Start/Stop 5dr | - | - | 12.7 s |
On sale until November 2020
| Hatchback | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 1.2 Adventure Dualjet 5dr | £13,993 | 61.4 mpg | 11.8 s |
| 1.2 SZ3 Dualjet 5dr | £11,493 | 60.1 mpg | 11.8 s |
| 1.2 SZ3 Dualjet Shvs 5dr | £12,249 | 61.4 mpg | - |
| 1.2 SZ5 Dualjet Ags 5dr | £15,293 | 58.8 mpg | 11.8 s |
| 1.2 SZ5 Dualjet Shvs 5dr | £14,493 | 65.6 mpg | 11.4 s |
| 1.2 Sz-T Dualjet 5dr | £12,993 | 60.1 mpg | 11.8 s |
| 1.2 Sz-T Dualjet Ags 5dr | £13,793 | 58.8 mpg | 11.8 s |
| 1.2 Sz-T Dualjet Shvs 5dr | £14,049 | 61.4 mpg | - |
| 1.2SZ5 Dualjt Shvs Allgrip 5dr | £15,493 | 61.4 mpg | 11.1 s |
On sale until April 2017
| Hatchback | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 1.2 SZ3 Dualjet 5dr | £10,103 | 61.4 mpg | - |
| 1.2 SZ5 Dualjet Ags 5dr | £13,903 | 61.4 mpg | - |
| 1.2 SZ5 Dualjet Shvs 4X4 5dr | £14,103 | 60.1 mpg | - |
| 1.2 SZ5 Dualjet Shvs 5dr | £13,123 | 65.7 mpg | - |
| 1.2 Sz-T Dualjet 5dr | £11,603 | 61.4 mpg | - |
| 1.2 Sz-T Dualjet Ags 5dr | £12,403 | 61.4 mpg | - |
Model History
- September 2016: Suzuki Ignis launched
- December 2017: Suzuki announced pricing and equipment for Ignis
- January 0001: Single-tone
- January 2018: Suzuki Ignis Adventure launched
- March 2020: Facelifted Suzuki Ignis revealed
September 2016
Suzuki Ignis launched
The new Ignis offers a lineup of 14 colour patterns, including three new body colours and the two-tone offerings. Two accent colours available for the interior match the body colours and enable drivers to choose the new Ignis that best suits their individual tastes.
Adopting Suzuki’s new-generation platform minimised the size of the engine room while maximising the space available for cabin occupants and luggage. Within its compact body size, Ignis features a roomy and comfortable cabin with space between occupants, ample headroom and legroom contributing to its relaxing environment.
Another feature is large-capacity luggage space of 267 litres, (227 litres for the ALLGRIP model). It also adopts sliding rear seat functionality that, combined with the ability to fold down the rear seatbacks, makes it possible to accommodate a wide variety of luggage. The Ignis is 3693mm long.
The cabin features extremely convenient storage space. In addition to the two-section glove box design, there are bottle holders in the centre and rear consoles as well as in the front and rear doors. The overall design goal was to maximise the ease of everyday use.
With a tall 180mm of minimum ground clearance, the Ignis enhances driving performance on rough roads, while also enabling a seat position that provides clear visibility and makes driving easier. The tall seat position also contributes to the ease of entering and exiting the cabin.
A 1.2 Dualjet petrol engine that delivers both powerful performance and excellent fuel economy powers the Ignis. This combines with the SHVS (Smart Hybrid Vehicle by Suzuki) mild hybrid system to realise even greater fuel efficiency.
SHVS (Smart Hybrid Vehicle by Suzuki) is a lightweight, compact mild hybrid system that uses an ISG (Integrated Starter Generator) with an integrated power generator and electric motor, and a lithium-ion battery pack. It is an optimum system for use in a compact car that leverages the electric motor’s torque assist and the system’s efficient power regeneration to realise better fuel economy.
Five-speed manual transmission: The adoption of a convergent locating system increases the sense of suction when shifting for lighter and better feeling shift action.
Five-speed AGS (Auto Gear Shift) transmission: Based on the five-speed manual transmission, Suzuki’s own automated manual transmission automatically performs the clutch and shift operations for the driver.
The Ignis adopts Suzuki’s ALLGRIP AUTO viscous coupling four-wheel drive system. By automatically distributing drive torque to the front and rear wheels when it detects the front wheel losing its grip of the road, the system achieves fuel economy while maximising performance. ALLGRIP AUTO gives the driver peace of mind in everyday driving, especially when driving on slippery roads or snowy surfaces.
The suspension was newly designed to best match the new-generation platform. In addition to a lighter and stronger suspension, the suspension mounts, which are an important aspect of driving performance, have also been designed for increased rigidity.
December 2017
Suzuki announced pricing and equipment for Ignis
Standard equipment for all Ignis models in the range is comprehensive and the SZ3 model includes six airbags, air conditioning, DAB radio with Bluetooth, 15-inch wheels, body coloured door mirrors, front electric windows and five seat capacity.
SZ-T adds satellite navigation, rear view camera, 16-inch alloy wheels, roof rails, wheel arch extensions and four seat capacity with individually sliding rear seats. SZ5 adds auto air conditioning, Dual Camera Brake Support, keyless entry and start, rear electric windows, LED Headlghts with DRL and front foglamps.
IGNIS is available in one solid colour, five optional metallic colours and five two tone colours whereby the roof colour on all is Super Pearl Black Metallic.
| Model | Transmission Type | CO 2 Emissions |
OTR Price |
Metallic January 0001Single-tone |
Dual-tone Paint |
VED Band |
VED 1st Year |
| 1.2 Dualjet SZ3 | 5-speed manual | 104 g/km | £9,999 | £465 | £650 | B | £0 |
| 1.2 Dualjet SZ-T | 5-speed manual | 104 g/km | £11,499 | £465 | £650 | B | £0 |
| 1.2 Dualjet SZ-T AGS | 5-speed automated manual | 104 g/km | £12,299 | £465 | £650 | B | £0 |
| 1.2 Dualjet SHVS SZ5 | 5-speed manual | 97 g/km | £12,999 | £465 | £650 | A | £0 |
| 1.2 Dualjet SZ5 AGS | 5-speed automated manual | 104 g/km | £13,799 | £465 | £650 | B | £0 |
| 1.2 Dualjet SHVS SZ5 ALLGRIP | 5-speed manual 4x4 | 106 g/km | £13,999 | £465 | £650 | B | £0 |
Available on the SZ5 manual model, the SHVS mild hybrid is a compact and lightweight unit that incorporates an Integrated Starter Generator (known as ISG) which acts as both a generator and starter motor, the ISG is belt driven and assists the engine during vehicle take off and acceleration and also generates electricity through regenerative braking.
The SHVS system only uses its conventional engine starter motor when first started from cold, under all other conditions it uses the ISG unit to allow smooth and quiet engine restarts.
The energy assistance provided during acceleration enables the SHVS to be known as a mild hybrid system which is ideally suited to a compact car and adds just 6.2kg to the overall weight. In the new Ignis the SHVS system helps Suzuki reach a top class CO2 emissions figure of 97g/km plus achieve a fuel consumption figure of 65.7mpg on the EC combined cycle for the 2WD model.
The new Ignis adopts Suzuki’s ALLGRIP ‘AUTO’ four-wheel drive system and is available on the SZ5 model. First introduced in Swift, this is a well proven and simple fully automatic and permanent four-wheel drive layout which transfers additional torque to the rear wheels when required via a viscous coupling.
Enhancements to the ALLGRIP system include Hill Descent Control and Grip Control. Grip Control activates on slippery surfaces at speeds of less than 18mph. Once switched on by the driver, it focuses torque on the driven wheels that have grip and will quickly apply braking to the wheel that is spinning.
The IGNIS adopts Suzuki‘s Total Effective Control Technology (TECT) concept that provides a high level of collision safety. Some of the features include collapsible structures that absorb impact energy in the event of a collision, a frame structure that effectively disperses impact energy, and rigid cabin structure.
As an additional safety feature on the SZ5 model, Dual Camera Brake Support (DCBS) is fitted which utilises stereo cameras located on each side of the drivers interior rear view mirror. These function in a similar way to the human eye and detect lane markings as well as objects ahead (including pedestrians) and also their distance away. This new feature has enabled the IGNIS SZ5 to be awarded Five Stars in the latest NCAP tests.
The SZ3 model has a fixed rear seat and the luggage area has a capacity of 267 litres (VDA) with the rear seat in its upright position. On SZ-T and SZ5 models the two individual rear seats can slide 165mm to provide either greater luggage capacity or more rear passenger leg room; additionally, the seat backrests have a two position recline function. The luggage capacity increases to 514 litres with both rear seats folded and can be as high as 1,100 litres if fully loaded to the roof line.
January 2018
Suzuki Ignis Adventure launched
The Ignis Adventure is based on the SZ-T and adds a selection of the most popular and distinctive personalisation options available. SZ-T standard specification includes rear view camera, 16-inch alloy wheels, roof rails and individually sliding rear seats and Adventure adds a further specification of rear spoiler, side mouldings, front and rear skid plates, coloured front grille centre bar, side decal set and colour keyed front fog lamp bezels.
The added value of these personalisation options is £1900 and with Adventure priced at £13,999 it represents a premium of just £1000 over the SZ-T. A limited number of Adventure models are being produced and four colours are available which are Fervent Red (Solid paint) and Boost Blue Pearl, Pure White Pearl and Super Black Pearl as optional metallic colours at £465.
March 2020
Facelifted Suzuki Ignis revealed
Updates include a revised front grille and bumper, new interior colours and a bigger 10Ah battery for mild-hybrid models as well as the option of a CVT automatic gearbox. UK prices and specifications will be announced ahead of the car going on sale in April.
What to watch out for
Report of repeated failures of Pioneer satnav unit fitted in the dash of a 2017 Suzuki Ignis. Would freeze or simply not turn on. Dealer replaced it with a secondhand Pioneer unit under warranty. This unit lasted about two months and now works intermittently. Again the dealer went back to Suzuki and again Suzuki is going to supply another "used" Pioneer unit. But new Ignis models are now coming through with Bosch satnavs.
18-12-2018:Report that 2017 Suzuki Ignis juddered from the front when starting from cold since new. Dealer apparently stripped it down but eventually agreed to a swap to a Swift with a 6-speed torque converter auto.
07-01-2019:High rate of tyre wear reported on Bridgestone Ecopia 175/60 R16 82H on 2017 Suzuki Ignis SZ-T Dualjet at 10,500 miles. Only 3mm left on the fronts and 4mm on the rears. Car did have its suspension stiffened by the Suzuki dealer to prevent it bottoming out when fully laden.
12-02-2019:Complaint of problems with AGS automated manual transmission in 2018 Suzuki Ignis, now at 4000 miles. "The car is now in the dealer probably having a new fly wheel fitted, and the dealer, (having previously advised 'Suzuki know of the issue and is considering either a recall or a in service solution',) warned me yesterday having "asked permission" to drop the gearbox out, that, should the damage be found to be due to bad driving we'll be expected to pay."
15-06-2019:Report of failure of clutch of late 2018 Suzuki Ignis at 4,000 miles. £600 to replace.
31-12-2019:Report of impending failure of clutch on March 2019 Suzuki Ignis SZ3 after 10,000 miles. Symptom is sluggish response and over-revving after upward gearchanges. We suggested if this particular clutch has a concentric slave cylinder it is possible that fluid has leaked onto the clutch plates. It is also possible that the engine crankshaft end seal or the gearbox main shaft end seal have leaked oil onto the clutch.
19-04-2021:2017 Suzuki Ignis fails its first MoT. Front coil springs broken and they would require replacement. Both springs have broken in the same place at the top of the springs. Car has 24,000 miles on the clock and the owner quoted £353 for new front coil springs. Suzuki Technical has offered just under £100 as a contribution towards this cost with nothing from the dealer.
16-09-2021:Report of coil spring failure on 2017 Suzuki Ignis 1.2 mild hybrid AWD.
12-10-2021:Report of DCBS safety camera system failure on 2017 Ignis. Owner quoted £2892 for repair by the dealer. Suzuki UK is not willing to contribute towards the cost of the fix but the dealer has offered a 10 per cent discount that will leave the owner with a considerable repair bill of £2603.
