IN these days of fads and whims, passing fashions and short-lived trends, there's something wholesome and reassuring about a design that lasts the test of time.

One such example is the little Suzuki Vitara, which first appeared a decade ago and is still going strong, albeit with a few tweaks and improvements along the way.

The latest version gets a new frontal treatment, poshed up cabin and an upgrade in technology and safety equipment. Like its predecessor, it's a petrol hybrid - a formula that's proving popular across most brands.

The tidied-up nose with new grille and bumper has helped cut drag and boost fuel consumption by up to 10 per cent, according the tests. There are two hybrid versions available - the full hybrid powered by a 1.5-litre engine and a mild hybrid with a turbocharged 1.4-litre unit that we've been sampling.

Available either as two-wheel-drive, or four-wheel-drive, as reviewed here, it is coupled to a slick six-speed manual gearbox.

In typical hybrid fashion, jabbing the throttle produces immediate response putting a spring in the Vitara's step and sending it to the milestone 62mph in little over nine seconds, making it one of the most lively small SUVs.

The engine is willing and eager and sounds smooth enough, though quite vocal, as the revs rise.

Road and wind noise are also quite evident as the speeds increase and if you open the large panoramic glass sunroof, this further noticeably increases.

The sharp response from the engine encourages sporty driving, and although the Vitara focuses on rugged practicality, it remains fun and pleasurable around the twisty roads. The steering, however, is fairly numb with little feedback from the road.

There's relatively little body roll considering this is a tall SUV with all-terrain capability. Ride is quite form but the suspension is absorbent with decent travel, making light work of our poor roads. A multi-choice dial set between the seats allows a choice of settings for different surfaces.

The refashioned fascia is a definite improvement with a larger touchscreen and a more contemporary feel. Some of the plastics used are somewhat scratchy and harsh to the touch, however. And the doors tend to shut with a hollow, lightweight feel.

On the safety front, the Vitara now has lane departure warning, lane keeping assistance and intelligent speed control. Its automatic emergency braking is controlled via camera and radar enabling it to pinpoint pedestrians and cyclists as well as other cars.

Space in the front is generous enough with ample seat movement. Things are a bit tighter in the rear, particularly legroom. But the boot can hold about 360litres of luggage which is about average for the class.

The latest Vitara has made noticeable gains in terms of economy and over average of 47.5mpg is likely to be easily achieved by most owners.

While the Vitara Hybrid Ultra is undoubtedly starting to show its age in terms of styling, it remains practical and rewarding to drive and reasonable to run. It is also one of the few small SUVs to be available with four-wheel-drive - a huge benefit to those living in rural areas.

£30,449

1.4-litre, 127bhp, 4 cyl petrol hybrid engine driving all 4 wheels via manual gearbox

121mph

9.5sec

52.3

: 23

128g/km

30%

3yrs/60,000 miles

4.1