Waiting in Vladivostok or maybe not – the new Suzuki Solio and its “bandit” version
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Waiting in Vladivostok or maybe not – the new Suzuki Solio and its “bandit” version

It's hard to overestimate the importance of "kei cars" in Japan. But this form factor has recently become more popular here too.


Some car enthusiasts choose compact cars for their economy and ease of parking. Others prefer this body style for its affordability, given the rising prices of vehicles.

Among the many "kei cars", several models have "taken root" in our country. This list includes the Honda N-WGN, Nissan Dayz and Suzuki Hustler. However, the latter also has the Solio and its more advanced configuration with the Bandit prefix in its lineup.

Waiting in Vladivostok or maybe not – the new Suzuki Solio and its “bandit” versionThis is what the updated Solio and Solio Bandit look like. Photo: YouTube.com

This car has received an update and will soon appear on the “shelves” in Japan. It is quite expected that it will appear here according to the well-known “scheme”. We suggest that you consider the new product and draw a conclusion whether it is worth waiting for an update or it is better to pay attention to other models in this segment.

Exterior


The manufacturer positions the new Solio in the minivan form factor. By all indications, the word "mini" still predominates, leading to a close resemblance to large-class kei cars.

The previous generation debuted in late autumn 2020. The new generation is more of a planned restyling than a global “reshuffle”.

The dimensions of the model remained the same:

✅ length - 3,8 m
✅ width - 1,6 m
✅ height – 1,7
✅ wheelbase - 2,5 m

The largest number of changes in the Solio's exterior are concentrated in the "front" part of the car. The side and rear profile, in turn, remained virtually unchanged.

Suzuki Solio Bandit is a more "premium" version of the model. Photo: suzuki.co.jp

The standard Solio version received new stripes on the radiator grille "under chrome". Now they are better combined with the lower air intake. A new shade appeared in the list of available color schemes - Speedy Blue Metallic. It is also possible to choose a configuration with a contrasting roof in Gun Metal tone.

The modification with the "Bandit" prefix is ​​positioned as a more premium solution, but with an eye on the price segment. The version boasts an enlarged radiator grille with a design in the spirit of the "large" Toyota Alphard or Vellfire minivans. They, in turn, are a direct reference to the luxury division of Lexus.

By the way, the updated Suzuki Solio is also planned for release in a "restyled" version. Their production will take place under the "wing" of Mitsubishi. The model will be called Delica D:2 and Delica D:2 Custom. At the moment, it is unknown whether the exterior design will change or it will remain in the form of a "twin" of Solio.

Interior and equipment


Compared to the previous generation, the interior has minimal differences. Of the noticeable improvements, it is worth noting the appearance of an electric parking brake and updated Suzuki Connect software.

This is what the interior of the updated Suzuki Solio looks like. Photo: suzuki.co.jp

The latter is an extension of the multimedia system and offers a number of specialized applications and functions. Compared to its Chinese competitors, unfortunately, it has nothing to "boast" about, but Japanese automakers attract buyers with slightly different advantages.

The ADAS driver assistance options have also been updated. This includes adaptive cruise control, lane keeping system and blind spot monitoring.

Engine and technical part


Both versions of the kei car are built on the Heartect platform and are equipped with a mild hybrid powertrain. It includes a 1,2-liter gasoline unit with the Z12E index and a small electric generator-motor ISG.

The internal combustion engine is three-cylinder, and its power is 82 hp. Peak torque reaches a modest 109 Nm.

For such a compact size, Solio seems to have quite a bit of space. Photo: YouTube.com

However, for such a compact and light car, this is not as little as it may seem at first glance. By the way, one of the versions of the Suzuki Swift is equipped with the same engine, and it is already in the next "weight category".

The power plant is paired with a variable transmission. Potential buyers can choose between front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive versions.

The "passport" fuel consumption is 4,5 liters per 100 km. This indicator was measured according to the WLTC cycle, and a more accurate "figure" depends on the driving style, fuel quality and other factors.

Conclusion


The cost of the "fresh" version of Solio in Japan is in the range from 1,9 to 2,3 million yen (1,2 and 1,5 million rubles). On average, the base model is located at the same price level as many competitors.

A close competitor of Suzuki Solio is Toyota Tank. Photo: YouTube.com

If we compare the new product with its opponents, then a kind of parity suggests itself. In some ways, the new Solio and its "brother-bandit" will be better, but subjectively. We are talking about the new design, referring to the Toyota Alphard, but in a "reduced version", as well as the power plant.

On the other hand, competitors such as the Honda N-WGN, Daihatsu Move or Tanto and Toyota Tank may offer slightly better fuel consumption. But if you look at these models "globally", the cardinal differences are minimal.

Thus, the new Solio and Bandit turned out to be an interesting, but not so large-scale update of the line. A potential fan or "forced" user of this form factor will appreciate the changes in the exterior design, relatively good dynamics. Otherwise, the car largely repeats the previous generation.
What do you think about kei cars?
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