Suzuki is making a significant entry into the electric vehicle market with the launch of the e Vitara, featuring two battery options and all-wheel drive, ideal for mountainous terrains. This model maintains Suzuki’s reputation for affordability and off-road capability, now enhanced with the Allgrip-e system. Built on a new platform, the e Vitara offers modern aesthetics and advanced technology, with a European release planned for summer 2025. A partnership with Toyota may also produce a related SUV.
Suzuki’s Bold Move into Electric Vehicles
Suzuki is breaking away from the conventional approach taken by many car manufacturers. While others have embraced electric vehicles, Suzuki had been notably absent from this segment, particularly as Europe ramps up its vehicle pollution reduction initiatives, culminating in the planned ban on the sale of thermal and hybrid cars by 2035. However, the tides are changing, as the manufacturer has just unveiled the e Vitara, a forward-thinking model that offers two battery options and an all-wheel-drive feature, making it an attractive choice for those living in mountainous regions.
Staying True to Its Winning Formula
Though Suzuki may not rank as a top car manufacturer in France, it has carved out a niche for itself in rural areas. The brand’s lineup includes several four-wheel-drive vehicles, perfect for navigating through snow and mud while remaining budget-friendly. The new e Vitara continues this tradition, providing customers with the choice of either front-wheel or all-wheel drive, mirroring the options available in its thermal counterpart.
In the press release announcing the e Vitara, Suzuki highlighted the upgrade of its renowned Allgrip transmission to the Allgrip-e system. This innovative electric all-wheel-drive configuration features an independent motor at both the front and rear. The front motor delivers 174 hp (128 kW), while the rear motor offers 66 hp (48 kW), bringing the total output of this Allgrip version to 135 kW, or 183 horsepower. Additionally, a “Trail” mode enhances off-road driving capabilities by optimizing torque distribution for improved grip.
Battery Options and Performance
The e Vitara is built on the new HEARTECT-e platform, specifically designed for Suzuki’s electric models, and it offers two battery sizes: a 49 kWh LFP (lithium-iron-phosphate) battery and a larger 61 kWh option. The smaller battery will be paired exclusively with a 150 hp (109 kW) motor, with an estimated range of about 350 km. In contrast, the 61 kWh battery, coupled with a 175 hp (128 kW) motor, is expected to provide a range of 400 to 450 km.
A Fresh and Modern Design
While the e Vitara shares its name with the traditional thermal version that debuted in 2015, the two models differ significantly in both aesthetics and technology. Drawing inspiration from the 2023 eVX concept, the e Vitara showcases a modern design characterized by an LED light signature, prominent fenders, and sleek integrated door handles. With a wheelbase of 2.70 m—10 cm longer than the Peugeot e-2008—the e Vitara promises a spacious interior while maintaining a compact overall length of 4.28 m.
The interior has also been revamped, featuring a dual-screen dashboard setup, although specific details on the screens remain sparse.
Launch Timeline and Future Developments
Pricing details for the e Vitara are still under wraps, but it is anticipated to hit European markets by the summer of 2025. As it will be produced in India, it may not qualify for ecological incentives. Furthermore, a collaboration with Toyota is expected to yield a related SUV based on the e Vitara, hinted at by the Urban SUV Concept. More updates on this partnership are expected soon.