Review
/5
- Pros:
- Smart styling
- Cabin space with small dimensions
- Ultra low running costs
- Cons:
- Limited boot space
- Poor motorway performance
- Noisy cabin
pictured: Suzuki Splash hatchback 2011 5 door
reviewed by Carbuyer
“Masses of space and style - and good to drive - but small boot limits the Suzuki Splash's appeal.”
“Masses of space and style - and good to drive - but small boot limits the Suzuki Splash's appeal.”
At a glance
- The greenest
- 1.2 SZ4 5dr
£11,105 - The cheapest
- 1.0 SZ2 5dr
£9,325 - The fastest
- 1.2 SZ4 5dr
£11,105 - Top of the range
- 1.2 SZ4 AUTO 5dr
£12,000
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If there's one thing Suzuki knows a thing or two about, then it's making small cars. The Splash is, largely, another fine example of Suzuki's ability to maximise space and efficiency. Despite being tall it still looks cute, but there's loads of passenger room front and back. Sadly, the boot is far too small to make it a serious family runabout. And while it's well built, the cabin doesn’t have a great deal of flair. All three engines are cheap to run, but none especially quick.
Drive
The tiny Splash has a 'big car' feel
First of all, the driving position of the Splash is spot on, giving it a big car feel. There's no reach adjustment for the wheel, but it's not too much an issue, especially as the gear stick is placed high (on the dashboard) for ease of reach. On the move, there's surprisingly little body roll for such a tall, narrow car, and under braking it feels very stable. All round visibility is great. None of the three engines (1.0-litre and 1.2-litre petrol or 1.3-litre diesel) feel particularly powerful, but they are fast enough for town driving.
Comfort
At low speeds all the engines run quietly
You wouldn’t expect a car like the Splash to be the last word in luxury or comfort, but the little Suzuki does exceed expectations. At low speeds all the engines run quietly, and wind and tyre noise are kept to a minimum, too. We like the way the Splash rides comfortably over lumps and bumps in the road. It's only when reaching motorway speeds that the sound levels become obtrusive, and the car feels out of its comfort zone.
Reliability
The car feels built to last
The Suzuki Splash comes packed with safety kit, including six airbags and electronic stability control. The car also feels well engineered, and should stand up to the rigours of city life well. The plastics don't feel feel great though - they're hard and hollow. This car's Euro NCAP accident protection rating is four-star, though just three stars were awarded for its child occupant protection.
Practicality
Four six-foot-plus adults will fit comfortably
Practicality inside is first rate, and four six-foot-plus adults will fit comfortably. The boot, though, at 178 litres, is only just big enough to accommodate a handbag from each passenger. The rear bench seat does split and fold as standard, though, and there's a storage shelf on the passenger side instead of a proper glove box.
Value for money
Air-conditioning is standard
The Suzuki Splash is well equipped, with air-conditioning as standard. However, you'll need to fork out for an upmarket GLS specification car to get alloy wheels - only available with more expensive 1.2-litre petrol or 1.3-litre diesel engine. Still, for the amount of space on offer, the Splash does feel like good value.
Running costs
Even the least economical engine returns 51.4mpg
You won’t have to 'splash' the cash to get from A to B. Even the least economical 1.2-litre petrol - with 86bhp - returns 51.4mpg. Opt for the 1.3-litre diesel and that goes up to 62.8mpg, and the most you’ll pay in annual VED is £90. All cars qualify for zero first year ‘showroom tax’ and insurance rates are very low.
*Our monthly finance prices are updated on a regular basis, but due to the dynamic nature of the market are not guaranteed accurate. You can always confirm the monthly finance price with FinanceAcar.
