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Suzuki Splash cars first appeared in the UK in March 2008 as the successor to the Wagon R+. The Suzuki Splash was aimed at pocket-conscious, city-dwelling families. Designed to sit between the Alto and Swift, this five-door tall supermini was the result of collaboration between Vauxhall and Suzuki. Additionally, unlike its siblings, it was manufactured in Europe and specifically designed to suit UK, rather than Japanese, tastes.
Twinned with the Vauxhall Agila, the manual SZ3 model comes in a choice of two petrol engines (68bhp 1.0 litre, 85bhp 1.2 litre) with four-speed automatic transmission available in the 1.2 litre SZ4 model. Suzuki also broke the mould by adding a 73bhp 1.3 litre diesel version (1.3 DDiS) to their line-up, which sported an impressive fuel injection system that offered 63mpg.
A mini MPV designed to compete with cars such as the Renault Modus, the Suzuki Splash offered buyers excellent visibility thanks to its wide-view windscreen and tall driving position. It also came with a number of safety features fitted as standard, including airbags, side protection impact beams and ISOFIX child seat anchorage points, as well as child proof rear dock locks. Unfortunately, the Suzuki Splash has yet to receive a Euro NCAP safety rating. Although extremely economical, running at 55mpg, critics didn't like its noisy cabin, lack of performance on motorways or small boot space.
In 2009, a fuel-sipping 1.0 litre petrol version was added to the Splash line-up, making the range more attractive and affordable to entry-level buyers.
Currently, nearly new Suzuki Splash diesel cars are retaining their resale value well on the used car market. New Suzuki Splash 1.0 litre versions offer excellent value for money in terms of features, and they have good green credentials.