Suzuki
Eeco – 1.2 L - 2 WD – 5 MT
Thank you, Suzuki SA, for the test unit and thank you
IX Online Motoring and Autoworld for the opportunity to write this article.
Never Gonna
Give You Up!
Introduction: I have absolutely loved driving
this little beauty and can understand why there have been nearly a million sold
in the Republic of India. I took the Suzuki Eeco up to the Midlands to watch my
amazing nephew play cricket at one of South Africa’s elite private schools. On
arrival, the security guard thought I was a delivery guy, which I loved and confirmed
which market this vehicle is pitched to sell in. The Eeco went very well on the
highway and breezed through the winding roads of the Midlands and with my
window down and Eric Clapton’s, “After midnight” pumping from the aftermarket
pioneer stereo, I was simply in my element! This vehicle can be used for a multitude of
things such as various contracting services, delivery services or even as a
mini camper van option. Whichever way you use it, there is something in this
vehicle that evokes much joy and brings a smile to my dial whilst driving it –
I am seriously considering starting a small business just because of the Eeco,
not only for the street cred but also so that I can drive this car every day.
Engine/ Economy/ Drive: The 1.2 L, 4-cylinder petrol
engine, cranks out 59 Kws and 104 Nms to the rear 13 inch wheels and has a superb,
combined fuel economy of 5.4 Liters per 100 kms from its 32 Liter tank. Driving
around town, I found the Eeco to be nippy and was much quicker off the mark than
I expected.
Features/ Interior/ Exterior/ Comfort/ Dimensions:
The Eeco comes with 2 airbags, ESP, ABS, EBD, reverse parking sensor, an engine
immobiliser which is a must in SA, Aircon that works very well in the Durban
heat and a cabin light. The front two passenger seats are comfortable with a
dashboard that is made from washable plastic, adding to its practicality for many
a use. The Eeco is 3.675 meter long, 1.475 meters wide with a wheelbase of 2.350
meters. The 1.620-meter length of the load bay, 1,3-meter width and 1.030-meter
height, is said to fit a standard pallet and has a load carrying certified capacity
of 615 kgs. Both side doors open, which is a bonus should you need access from
the left or right and its super convenient for when you need to reach for
something. I can see myself with all my tools in the van, during the week and
then throwing in a mattress into the back for a weekend camping trip – a 160
mms ground clearance is enough to take you off the beaten track too. With the
12V socket up front, I can even keep my camping fridge running, ensuring that
my meat stays fresh for the braai and my beers are ice cold for the RWC Final
this weekend! GO BOKKE!!
Price/ Warranty/ Service plan: R199900 incl
VAT (Claimable if for company/ business use), 3 year/ 100000 km Mechanical
Warranty, with services every 15000 kms and a 6 year/ unlimited km Body
Corrosion Warranty.
In Summary: The Suzuki Eeco is a versatile,
affordable, economical, and practical panel van that will sell well in South
Africa for all the reasons above. Rick Astley’s hit song, “Never going to give
you up” certainly rings true, as I sadly contemplate having to give it back
tomorrow! So, if you a contractor or someone that loves the great outdoors and
camping, then this might be the vehicle for you!
*This article is written in my opinion only. For
detailed information on the specs contact Suzuki SA*
