This post was originally published on Autocar
New eVitara sits on an EV-tailored platform, to the benefit of packaging
New Mini Aceman rival arrives with recognisable name to tempt buyers
Suzuki has finally unveiled its first electric car, the eVitara, becoming one of the last major car makers to enter the EV market.
Previewed by the striking eVX concept in 2023, the production model is a blockier representation of that car and comes paired with a name that is familiar to drivers across the European markets – a move intended to win over buyers.
At 4275mm long, 1800mm wide and 1636mm tall, it is slightly bigger than its unrelated combustion namesake, which positions it as a rival to models such as the Mini Aceman and Volvo EX40.
It sits on the new Heartect-e architecture, which has been adapted from the scalable platform that underpins a range of Suzuki models, including the Swift hatchback.
The Japanese brand says the platform has been designed to maximise interior space (a key issue with EVs due to underfloor batteries) and claims it will offer more than competitors. To that end, it has a packaging-friendly wheelbase of 2700mm.
Suzuki will bring the five-seat eVitara to Europe with a choice of two batteries: a relatively small 49kWh and larger 61kWh. Official range figures have not yet been disclosed, but Suzuki said it is targeting 250 miles from the bigger pack. It can charge at speeds of up to 150kW.
Power comes from a front-mounted motor that is offered with 142bhp on the smaller-battery model and 172bhp with the larger pack. Both options put out the same 140lb ft of torque.
The eVitara can also be had with four-wheel drive (with the 61kWh battery only), courtesy of an additional, 64bhp motor on the rear axle. This also boosts torque to 221lb ft.
In this setup, the eVitara also comes equipped with Allgrip-e, a system which manages the two motors independently for offroad use allowing for “precise control”. As part of that, Trail Mode can be activated – basically a trick limited-slip differential – for better response.
Suzuki president Toshihiro Suzuki said the eVitara was “developed through repeated trial and error” in order to create “an easy-to-use” EV.
He added: “The introduction of the eVitara represents a significant milestone in achieving carbon neutrality.”
As part of this push, Suzuki will, Toshihiro Suzuki said, continue to offer a “variety of options… in order to realise a carbon- neutral society” such as hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles alongside a growing range of EVs.
Pricing for the Indian-built SUV has yet to be confirmed, but it is expected to follow the Vitara’s positioning as a value alternative in its segment. As a result, it is likely to start from under £35,000. UK deliveries will begin next summer.