Now in its fourth generation, it has evolved into a sophisticated and classy crossover SUV.

The road test car was the turbo model running a 1.4-litre turbo four-cylinder Boosterjet engine.

Power is 103kw (138bhp) torque 220Nm.

The test car drove front wheels only via a six-speed auto.

Fuel economy over the 1100km I drove was an excellent 5.5L/100km (49mpg).

The downside is it needs 95ron fuel.

The Vitara surprised me.

It accelerated strongly while only putting out a moderate 103kw.

It felt like it had a lot more power.

Related: Range Rover road test

The Turbo model comes well-equipped with a six-speaker stereo, auto wipers and headlights, climate control air, adaptive cruise (the adaptive cruise is the best I've tested, not braking violently if a car pulls in front of you on the motorway as many adaptive cruise controls do), heated and folding rear vision mirrors, LED headlights, keyless entry and start, hill-descent control, sunglasses holder, sat nav and Apple Car Play.

The metallic instruments also set the Vitara apart.

A feature I really liked was the analogue clock.

Ah, memories of my Dad's Austin A105 with a clock in the middle of the dash.

Suzuki offers a five-year unlimited kilometre warranty with the car.

The car drove well, handling on bitumen being excellent, although it did feel a little skittish on dirt.

Braking is high quality.

For a relatively small car with a small engine, noise levels inside are excellent.

Cabin space is good, particularly in the front.

Rear leg room is limited.

Related: Hyundai Kona Highlander road test

Overall, I was impressed with this fourth generation Suzuki Vitara.

It should be on any buyers shortlist if you are in the market for a sporty/family SUV crossover vehicle.

Price as tested $29490 drive away.

My rating 7.9/10.

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