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Price in South Africa, real specs & fuel economy — 2026
On-road varies by dealer. Fuel figures blend manufacturer claims and South Africa owner reports — your real numbers depend on traffic, terrain and how heavy your right foot is.
* This is a rough guide only — your actual monthly repayment will depend on your credit score, bank charges and loan terms. Get a proper quote from your bank or dealer before committing.
Last checked on 2026-05-09 • Verified by the Hagalu team
The Dzire GL+ CVT is the complete package — AEB, lane departure warning, LED headlights, alloy wheels and wireless CarPlay with a smooth CVT at R272,900.
The Dzire GL+ CVT at R272,900 is the range-topping variant and the one that makes the most complete argument for the model. The CVT gearbox adds automatic convenience for city traffic — smooth, stepless power delivery in stop-start conditions that removes manual clutch fatigue entirely. The Z12E DualJet engine's claimed consumption on the CVT is 4.6L/100km — 0.2L/100km higher than the manual due to the CVT's slightly lower efficiency at light load, but still excellent in absolute terms. The most significant specification additions over the GL+ MT are the active safety systems: low-speed AEB monitors the road ahead and intervenes with braking below 35km/h if an imminent collision is detected; lane departure warning uses a forward-facing camera and alerts the driver when the vehicle crosses lane markings without indicator input. These systems are standard on the GL+ CVT and unavailable on either manual variant. LED projector headlights replace the halogen units of the GL+ MT, providing better illumination quality on unlit SA night roads. LED tail lamps replace halogen. 15-inch alloy wheels complete the specification upgrade over the GL+ MT. At R272,900, the Dzire GL+ CVT competes directly with the Honda Amaze 1.2 Comfort CVT but delivers more safety technology (AEB, LDW) and comparable connectivity at a lower price. This specific configuration has been engineered to balance practical capability with realistic ownership costs across SA driving conditions. The transmission type, engine displacement, and trim level combine to create a variant that serves a specific buyer profile without compromise. The Gl Cvt variant of the Dzire brings specific engineering tuning and equipment configuration to address particular buyer priorities. This variant combines automatic transmission provides smooth operation in all traffic conditions with front-wheel drive prioritizes efficiency and daily driving comfort. Transmission selection meaningfully impacts daily driving character. Manual variants appeal to enthusiasts wanting direct control over gear selection and engine braking. Automatic variants suit buyers prioritizing daily convenience without sacrificing efficiency. Each configuration delivers proven reliability through years of operational service. Drivetrain configuration addresses specific geographic and usage patterns. Front-wheel drive variants maximize fuel efficiency and interior space allocation. Four-wheel drive variants provide capability for weekend adventure and inclement weather confidence. Buyers select configurations matching their anticipated driving patterns and regional conditions. Variant-specific equipment includes targeted features addressing typical user scenarios. Climate control tuning, lighting packages, and assistance systems vary by variant to deliver appropriate capability for intended use. Warranty coverage remains consistent across variant portfolio. Ownership satisfaction derives from configuration alignment with actual driving needs. Over-specification wastes capital and increases depreciation. Under-specification limits capability and daily satisfaction. This variant represents a considered balance of practical requirements and budget allocation.
Who buys this: First-time car buyers upgrading from a used hatchback, small families needing practical boot space, single-income households wanting the most reliable and fuel-efficient sedan under R275,000, small business owners needing a commuter vehicle with low running costs
Engines: Single powertrain across all three variants: 1.2-litre Z12E DualJet three-cylinder producing 60kW at 5,700rpm and 112Nm at 4,300rpm. DualJet technology uses two injectors per cylinder firing at different stages of the intake stroke, improving combustion efficiency by 8 to 10% compared to conventional single-injector MPFI. Compression ratio of 12.0:1. Runs on 93 RON unleaded petrol. 15,000km service interval. GA and GL+ MT use a 5-speed manual gearbox; GL+ CVT uses a smooth belt-drive CVT.
Generation: Second generation Dzire on HEARTECT platform — same structural architecture as the fifth-generation Swift, updated with Z12E DualJet engine for improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions.
Updates: Second-generation Dzire (ZD41S) introduced globally in 2017; engine updated to Z12E DualJet in SA specification for 2024 launch; minor equipment and colour updates in 2026.
Pick up to 3 variants, hit Compare Variants and you'll get a proper side-by-side spec breakdown.
| Cmp | Variant | Trim | Fuel | Transmission | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.2 GA MT | Base | Petrol | Manual | ZAR 229,900 | ||
| 1.2 GL+ MT | Mid | Petrol | Manual | ZAR 249,900 | ||
| 1.2 GL+ CVT | Flagship | Petrol | Automatic | ZAR 272,900 |
| Cmp | Variant | Trim | Transmission | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.2 GA MT | Base | Manual | ZAR 229,900 | ||
| 1.2 GL+ MT | Mid | Manual | ZAR 249,900 | ||
| 1.2 GL+ CVT | Flagship | Automatic | ZAR 272,900 |
The Dzire GL+ CVT is the rational top-spec pick — AEB and lane departure warning at R272,900 make it the safest-equipped sedan under R300,000 in SA.
The Gl Cvt variant is the correct choice for buyers whose driving patterns align with its specific configuration. Automatic transmission provides smooth operation in all traffic conditions. Front-wheel drive prioritizes efficiency and daily driving comfort. This combination addresses realistic ownership scenarios across South African conditions.
The Gl Cvt appeals to buyers whose driving demands align with transmission and drivetrain configuration. Automatic transmission suits busy professionals wanting daily convenience. Front-wheel drive maximizes efficiency and interior space for daily commuting. Traditional powertrain balances performance with practical running costs. Service costs align with configuration complexity. Maintenance intervals follow standard schedules. Parts availability is reliable through dealer and independent networks. Total cost of ownership reflects realistic fuel consumption and service requirements for this specific configuration. Resale value reflects configuration desirability as market matures. Manual variants appeal to enthusiast buyers. Automatic variants attract busy professionals. Four-wheel drive maintains value in regions with challenging road conditions. Front-wheel drive variants suit metropolitan buyers. This variant's residual value develops as similar examples accumulate in the used market.
The Suzuki Dzire has 145 mm of ground clearance — enough for SA speed bumps, gravel driveways, and light dirt roads without catching the underside.
The Suzuki Dzire comes with a 1197 cc engine, putting out 60 kW (80 bhp). It's available in multiple variants — check the specs tab above for fuel type and transmission options.
The claimed figure is around 13.5 km/l. Real-world SA driving — city stop-start plus highway speeds — typically runs 10–15% higher than that. Diesel variants tend to pull ahead over longer distances.
Buyers researching the Suzuki Dzire often compare it with rivals such as Honda Amaze . Comparing them side by side is the quickest way to see where your money goes — performance, petrol economy, price and running costs all vary more than you'd think.
Tap any card to see a full head-to-head — specs, scores and a clear verdict on which one's worth your money.
Data verified against: Suzuki Official South Africa Website