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* 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

Suzuki Dzire — 1.2 GL+ MT

The Dzire GL+ MT balances manual driving engagement with 9-inch wireless CarPlay, 6 airbags, rear camera and keyless entry at R249,900.

At R249,900, the Dzire GL+ MT bridges the gap between the stripped GA entry point and the CVT top specification. The equipment additions over the GA are significant: the 7-inch wired screen is replaced by a 9-inch touchscreen with wireless CarPlay and Android Auto, removing the USB cable requirement for Apple and Google device integration. A rear view camera is added — standard fitment on this trim. Six airbags replace the GA's dual setup, adding side and curtain protection for front occupants. Keyless entry with push-button start replaces the conventional key. Cruise control is included. These additions collectively represent the specification level that most SA buyers consider a functional minimum for a new-car purchase in 2026. The manual gearbox is retained, making the GL+ MT the choice for buyers who prefer driving engagement and maximum fuel economy control. The Z12E DualJet engine's 60kW and 112Nm output is unchanged from the GA, and the claimed 4.4L/100km fuel consumption matches the GA MT identically. The 15-inch steel wheels with hub caps replace the GA's 14-inch steel units — a marginal appearance improvement and a more common tyre size. For a buyer who wants everything the Dzire offers except the CVT gearbox, the GL+ MT is the complete choice at R249,900. 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 Mt variant of the Dzire brings specific engineering tuning and equipment configuration to address particular buyer priorities. This variant combines manual transmission delivers direct engagement for driving enthusiasts 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

City
Urban driving characteristics reflect transmission and drivetrain configuration. Manual transmission requires deliberate gear selection through stop-start traffic. Front-wheel drive prioritizes efficiency in city fuel consumption. Visibility remains adequate for metropolitan traffic navigation. Parking sensor systems assist in tight spaces. Climate control maintains comfort in extended urban congestion. The variant functions reliably through daily city driving without demanding specialist operation technique.
Highway
Highway driving reveals configuration-specific characteristics. Manual transmission engages through gear selection for engine braking on descents. Front-wheel drive maximizes highway fuel economy through optimized power distribution. Conventional powertrain balances performance with fuel consumption across highway speeds. Fuel economy on highway runs reflects powertrain configuration and driving technique. The transmission settles into efficient cruising operation. Comfort supports multi-hour highway periods. Road noise remains controlled. Engine operation proves relaxed at sustained highway speeds. Extended highway driving confirms the variant's suitability for regional travel.
Off-Road
Off-road performance reflects configuration-specific capability. Front-wheel drive handles basic gravel and farm track access. Manual transmission enables engine braking control descending rough terrain. Conventional engine delivers proven torque for off-road work. Ground clearance addresses obstacles according to configuration. The variant handles appropriate off-road scenarios for which it was engineered. Buyers selecting this configuration understand capability boundaries and drive accordingly.

Suzuki Dzire — Quick Facts

  • Starting price in South Africa: ZAR 249,900 ex-showroom
  • Engine: 1197 cc
  • Power output: 60 kW (80 bhp)
  • Ground clearance: 145 mm — handy for those South African potholes
  • Claimed fuel economy: 13.5 km/l
  • Body style: Sedan

Suzuki Dzire Variants & Prices

Pick up to 3 variants, hit Compare Variants and you'll get a proper side-by-side spec breakdown.

Maximum 3 variants reached
Uncheck one of the selected variants below before choosing another.
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
2 variants selected

Suzuki Dzire Specifications

Engine
1.2L Z12E DualJet 3-Cylinder Petrol
Engine Type
Inline 3 Cylinder Naturally Aspirated
Engine Code
Z12E
Cylinder Layout
Inline 3 (I3)
Engine Aspiration
Naturally Aspirated
Displacement
1197 cc
Cylinders
3
Valves per Cylinder
4
Cylinder Bore
73.0 mm
Piston Stroke
95.5 mm
Compression Ratio
12.0:1
Engine Position
Transverse Front-Mounted
Variable Valve Timing
Dual VVT on Intake and Exhaust
Fuel System
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPFI)
Turbocharger
Not Applicable
Power
60 kW
Power @ RPM
5,700 rpm
Power
82 bhp
Torque
112 Nm
Torque @ RPM
4,300 rpm
Maximum Engine RPM
6700 rpm
Engine Oil Capacity
2.9 l
Fuel Grade Required
93 RON Unleaded Petrol
Top Speed
165 km/h
0-100 km/h
11.7 sec
Engine Type Config
Available
0–100 km/h
Available sec
Battery Capacity
Available
Charging Port
Available
AC Charging Time
Available
Engine Displacement
Available cc
EV Range
Available km

1.2 GL+ MT — Should You Buy It?

The optimal manual Dzire — six airbags, wireless CarPlay, rear camera and cruise control at R249,900 represents where most rational buyers should stop in the range.

The Gl Mt variant is the correct choice for buyers whose driving patterns align with its specific configuration. Manual transmission delivers direct engagement for driving enthusiasts. Front-wheel drive prioritizes efficiency and daily driving comfort. This combination addresses realistic ownership scenarios across South African conditions.

What's Good
  • Manual transmission engages driving enthusiasts through direct control.
  • Front-wheel drive maximizes fuel efficiency and interior space.
  • Proven powertrain delivers reliable performance across ownership duration.
  • Service costs align with configuration and complexity expectations.
  • Fuel economy reflects realistic operational consumption for this variant.
  • Resale values develop as market recognizes configuration desirability.
  • Warranty coverage protects against manufacturing defects across components.
  • Conventional powertrain balances capability with operational economy.
  • Configuration aligns with actual driving requirements avoiding unnecessary complexity.
Watch Out For
  • Manual transmission requires active gear selection through traffic.
  • No AEB or lane departure warning — active safety systems are exclusive to the GL+ CVT; passive safety (6 airbags) is complete but active collision avoidance is absent
  • Conventional powertrain offers no electric efficiency assistance.
  • Depreciation follows market trends as used inventory accumulates.
  • Configuration selection commits to specific usage patterns with limited flexibility.

Suzuki Dzire FAQs

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.

Compare Suzuki Dzire with Similar Sedans

Tap any card to see a full head-to-head — specs, scores and a clear verdict on which one's worth your money.

Other Suzuki Models in South Africa

Data verified against: Suzuki Official South Africa Website

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