Suzuki e-Vitara: Plugged In for the First Time

With the e-Vitara, Suzuki takes its first steps into the competitive world of electric B-segment crossovers. This 4.27-meter electric SUV is produced in India, boasts a new platform, and offers battery options of either 49 kWh or 61 kWh.

Big Moves from a Small Player

In India, Suzuki, known locally as Maruti Suzuki, is a household name. However, in markets like Germany, Suzuki’s presence is more low-key. Models like the Swift and Vitara have their fans for being reliable, solid vehicles.

But in terms of electrification, Suzuki’s lineup has been limited, featuring only mild hybrids and a single plug-in model, the Across. Now, with the e-Vitara, rolling off the production line in Suzuki’s Gujarat factory, the Japanese automaker is set to expand its fully electric offerings in Europe by summer next year.

Bold Looks and Spacious Interior

Visually, the e-Vitara has an angular, assertive design influenced by the Suzuki EVX Concept. Inside, while it’s not quite as futuristic as the concept version, the production model features a stylish mix of piano black accents and leather upholstery. The generous 2.70-meter wheelbase ensures enough rear seat space to keep even claustrophobic passengers comfortable.

In the cabin, two screens form a single, unified display unit, giving the e-Vitara a clean, modern look with digital instruments. Controls follow a classic SUV layout, with driving modes, hill-start, and descent-assist buttons grouped around a rotary dial for selecting drive modes. There’s also a “Trail” mode designed for tackling low-traction surfaces like snow and gravel, allowing the system to transfer power to the wheel with the most grip.

Built on Suzuki’s New Electric Platform

Underpinning the e-Vitara is Suzuki’s “Heartect-e” platform, specifically designed for electric vehicles. The e-Vitara uses electric axles (e-Axle) with individual motors and inverters. Two battery options are available: a 49 kWh battery and a larger 61 kWh version, with power configurations determined by battery size.

With the 49-kWh battery, the e-Vitara features front-wheel drive, generating 144 hp (106 kW) and 189 Nm of torque. The larger 61-kWh battery offers a choice between front-wheel drive, delivering 174 hp (128 kW), and all-wheel drive, which includes a rear motor adding 65 hp (48 kW) to bring the total system power to 183 hp (135 kW) and 300 Nm of torque.

A Growing Electric Lineup for Suzuki

The e-Vitara is just the start for Suzuki’s electric journey. “We will progressively expand our lineup of battery-electric vehicles while offering various propulsion options and mobility solutions tailored to the specific needs of our customers in different countries and regions,” said Toshihiro Suzuki, President of Suzuki Motor Corporation.

The e-Vitara will compete with models like the Opel Mokka Electric (starting at €40,800), the Smart #1 (€34,990), and the Kia EV3 (€35,990). Pricing is expected to fall within this range. The platform’s appeal is evident, with Toyota set to release a small electric crossover sharing the same platform and tech as the e-Vitara next year.