The Suzuki Dzire Is Back, Aiming To Be More Than Just a Budget Sedan

BY MUFARO MHARIWA
20 hours ago
5 min read

Photo: LucaPhotography

Sedans might not be stealing headlines like SUVs these days, but Suzuki hasn’t given up on them, and with the new Dzire, it’s clear why. Reintroduced to the South African market with refreshed styling, better spec, and better value, the Dzire is designed to do what many pricier rivals can’t: offer dependable, fuss-free motoring for families, professionals, and fleet operators alike.

At the media launch, Suzuki’s Head of Marketing, Brendan Carpenter, made it clear that this wasn’t just a facelift. “If it has the support of fleets, it means it’s passed their tests,” he said. “These operators look at costs, downtime and reliability, so if the Dzire ticks those boxes, it says a lot.”

The Dzire Story: A Proven Nameplate

The Dzire name might be relatively new to some South Africans, but the car itself has a well-established global track record. Originally introduced as the sedan version of the popular Suzuki Swift, the model was rebranded to “Dzire” in 2017 to reflect its growing identity as a standalone offering. Since then, it has quietly become India’s best-selling sedan, which is no small feat in one of the world’s most competitive markets.

Brendan believes there are clear parallels between Indian and South African buyers. “Our markets share a lot of similarities: value-focused customers, a need for fuel efficiency, and an appreciation for reliability,” he said. “It’s no surprise the Dzire has found a home here too.”

Locally, nearly 12,000 units have been sold since 2017, with many used in the fleet sector; a strong endorsement for any vehicle in terms of durability and cost-effectiveness. But Suzuki is confident this new Dzire will broaden its reach even further, bringing in families, professionals and first-time buyers alike.

Line-Up Breakdown: GA and GL+ Trims

The new Suzuki Dzire range offers three models, each designed to meet different needs without compromising on core features. At the base, the 1.2 GA Manual starts at R224,900 and comes surprisingly well-equipped. It includes essentials such as 14-inch steel wheels, halogen projector headlamps, and a full suite of safety features including Electronic Stability Program (ESP), ABS with EBD and Brake Assist (BAS), and six airbags. Convenience is also well-covered with push start, remote central locking, electric windows and mirrors, and hill hold control.

Brendan Carpenter emphasises, “You don’t often see this level of spec at the entry level. Usually, there’s something missing, but not here.”

Moving up, the 1.2 GL+ is available with either a 5-speed manual at R246,900 or a CVT automatic for R266,900. This trim builds on the GA’s foundations and adds 15-inch black alloy wheels, a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a reverse camera, cruise control (CVT only), and colour-coded door handles and mirrors.

Brendan adds, “The GL+ really offers everything you need, it doesn’t feel like a budget car at all.”

Under the Bonnet: Modest, But Capable

Photo: LucaPhotography

Powering the Dzire is Suzuki’s trusted 1.2-litre 3-cylinder Z-series engine, delivering 80 horsepower (60 kW) and 112 Nm of torque. It may not be headline-grabbing, but it’s built for exactly the kind of everyday driving most South Africans do: urban commutes, school runs, and long-haul mileage without burning a hole in your wallet.

Buyers can choose between a 5-speed manual gearbox or a smooth CVT automatic. Either way, the focus is squarely on efficiency and ease of use, with a claimed fuel consumption of just 4.4 L/100 km.

As Brendan Carpenter puts it, “There are cheaper cars out there, but nothing that offers this size, space, and sedan practicality at this price point.”

Looks: It Does The Job

The new Suzuki Dzire may not be the prettiest car in the parking lot, but for a first-time buyer or anyone focused on getting reliably from A to B, it’s surprisingly pleasing. The exterior has taken a noticeable step forward compared to the previous generation. It's modern, better proportioned, and far more refined in its overall look. You won’t mistake it for a performance sedan, but it no longer feels like a car stuck in the past either. Inside, the cabin mirrors that same sense of quiet evolution; clean, straightforward and solidly put together. It’s the kind of interior that won’t wow you with gadgets, but it won’t let you down either.

Buyers have the option of seven colours to choose from, adding a bit of personal flair to the practicality: Alluring Blue, Gallant Red, Arctic White, Splendid Silver, Nutmeg Brown, Bluish Black and Magma Grey.

Who Should Buy the Dzire?

1. Families on a budget

“This could easily be the main family car,” said Brendan Carpenter. “It’s affordable to buy and run, and the boot is huge.” With comfortable seating for five, ISOFIX anchors, and enough luggage space for a family grocery haul or weekend bags, the Dzire makes a compelling case for practicality-first parenting.

2. Fleet and business users

“Think salespeople, field workers; people who need a reliable vehicle with low costs and lots of boot space.” That’s where the Dzire has always excelled, and where it continues to shine. With nearly 12,000 units sold in South Africa since 2017, it’s already proven its worth to fleet operators who value uptime, low maintenance costs and fuel efficiency.

3. Young professionals and first-time buyers

“For many young people supporting extended families, affordability matters. This gives them a real option to get into a new car with a warranty and service plan, instead of risking something second-hand.” With its competitive price point and generous standard features, the Dzire offers peace of mind and predictability — two things you don’t always get when buying used.

4. Side hustlers and small businesses

In India, the Dzire is known for doing real work, often driving on rough roads, loaded with goods, or used as taxis. “They’re built tough,” Carpenter noted. It’s the kind of car that will do what you ask of it, quietly and consistently.

Value That’s Hard to Beat

There’s no getting around it, R224,900 doesn’t go far these days. But with the new Dzire, Suzuki has made a strong case for why it might be one of the smartest ways to stretch your money.

It’s not just about the price tag, although being one of the most affordable sedans on the market certainly helps. What really sets it apart is how much peace of mind you get once you’ve bought in. Every Dzire comes with a long list of after sales support: a 5-year/200,000 km warranty, a 4-year/60,000 km service plan, 5 years of unlimited roadside assistance, and a 6-year anti-corrosion warranty.

For an entry-level buyer, or someone who just wants fuss-free ownership, that’s a seriously reassuring package. When you look at rivals like the Honda Amaze and Hyundai Grand i10 Sedan, you’re immediately spending more for a similar spec and still not getting the same backup. And with the Toyota Vios expected to enter the market at a higher price point, the Dzire feels like a well-timed reminder that value doesn’t have to mean compromise.

As Brendan Carpenter from Suzuki SA put it: “It’s not just about the car itself. We want to make ownership easy and affordable long after you’ve driven off the showroom floor.”

Closing Thoughts: Add It To Your List

In a market where prices are climbing faster than most people’s salaries, it’s refreshing to see a brand double down on affordability, reliability, and plain old common sense. Just a well-built car that gets the job done without draining your bank account.

It’s the kind of car that quietly earns your respect. Whether you're a parent ferrying kids around, a small business owner needing something practical for work, or just someone who wants a stress-free first car, the Dzire ticks more boxes than you’d expect.

Honestly, if you're in the market for a new car, there’s no reason this shouldn’t be on your shortlist.