IT'S rare these days for cars to be a massive improvement on the model they replace but I've just been driving one that sets new standards.

The latest Suzuki Vitara is in a different league to the old models, which were pretty long in the tooth.

It's hugely enjoyable to drive and right up there with the Nissan Qashqai in every way.

I drove the top grade 1.6-litre petrol SZ5 with four wheel drive, but there is a 1.6 diesel with the same power output and both are also available with just the front wheels driven.

The petrol engine is very smooth and refined, but also sounds good when revved. It will pull uphill happily from tickover in the fifthgear of five and yet when pushed, also gives enough performance for plenty of fun.

It's also very economical, bettering the petrol economy and emissions of most others in the class.

I really enjoyed driving this one, because it is also very good through the corners, belying its tall shape.

The steering is reasonably positive and it handles very well through the corners. There is some body roll, as with almost all 4x4s, but grip is excellent.

Where it most definitely scores over some others is in comfort. The ride is very good over all surfaces and at all speeds, which is hugely impressive.

It has an easy and quick gearchange, the clutch is light, and all the other controls fall well to hand.

There is plenty of room for four or five inside, with big rear legroom and a decent sized boot.

The SZ5 has a leather covered steering wheel with audio and cruise controls, leather seats, sat nav, stability control, hill descent control for off-road work and auto start stop to help save fuel.

It also has parking sensors front and rear - still an extra on so many more expensive cars - a sunroof, alloys and an alarm.