Suzuki Auto South Africa will put five models from its local line-up through a real-world fuel economy test in Pretoria on 29 and 30 September. The event gives buyers weighing up running costs a look at how the cars perform beyond the specification sheet. The 2026 Suzuki Fuel Economy Challenge comes as fuel price volatility continues to affect South African motorists, making fuel efficiency an increasingly important factor when buying a new vehicle.
How the Suzuki Fuel Economy Challenge works
Twenty media participants, including influencers and traditional media, will compete in 10 teams across 10 Suzuki vehicles. Each team will aim to record the lowest fuel consumption figure possible, with the event pushing both the vehicles and the drivers.
The drive will be complemented by a programme of competitive and entertainment-focused activities. According to Suzuki, the challenge is intended to let participants experience the vehicles under real-world driving conditions. It is also meant to demonstrate the role that driving style and conditions play in fuel consumption.
Five Suzuki models in the field
Two examples each of the Fronx, Across, Swift, Dzire and Baleno will take part. The final results will be revealed at the conclusion of the challenge, when the winning vehicle and the winning team will be announced.
Suzuki on real-world fuel consumption
Brendon Carpenter, Brand Marketing Manager of Suzuki Auto South Africa, said fuel consumption is a major factor in a vehicle’s overall cost of ownership. He noted that fuel prices have increased recently and remain under pressure. “While specification-sheet figures provide an important reference point, real-world driving tells another part of the story,” he said.
Carpenter added that the event is also about having some fun along the way and “showing that efficient driving doesn’t have to come at the expense of an enjoyable driving experience.”
Public prediction competition and how to enter
Members of the public can predict which Suzuki model will deliver the best fuel economy, and those who correctly identify the winning vehicle stand a chance to win a prize. Predictions can be made and the challenge followed through Suzuki Auto South Africa’s Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, X and TikTok accounts.
Supplied by MotorPress (Eileen Gengan, Assistant Manager: PR & Events, Suzuki Auto South Africa)
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