New e-Vitara is Suzuki’s first electric car

Suzuki is finally entering the EV market and has chosen to go with one of its most popular vehicles - the Vitara. The electric version is called e-Vitara and it was unveiled in Milan, Italy. Production is set to begin in India in the spring of 2025, with sales in Europe, India, and Japan expected to follow that summer.

The e-Vitara is based on the "eVX" concept car that Suzuki teased at various auto shows. It's the company's first global BEV model, indicating Suzuki's changing attitude towards the growing EV market. The design, described by the company as an "Emotional Versatile Cruiser," combines a bit of a modern aesthetic with the extra ruggedness of the classic Vitara.

The interior features a large integrated display, similar to what Ioniq 5 has. Suzuki promises advanced technology, and the interior materials are apparently durable, reflecting the "High-Tech & Adventure" theme.

The all-new e-Vitara comes with a highly efficient electric powertrain. The "eAxle" integrates the electric motor and inverter into one unit, while lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) batteries will power the car.

The least powerful version comes with a 106 kW motor coupled with a 49 kWh battery. The bigger, 61 kWh battery pack comes with a choice of either 2WD or 4WD. The latter adds a 48 kW electric motor to the rear axle for a combined output of 135 kW. That's exactly the same number as the 2004 Vitara V6 had, but the torque now sits at 221 lb-ft, promising the acceleration to be swifter.

One of the e-Vitara's most exciting features is its "ALLGRIP-e" electric 4WD system. This system uses two independent eAxles, one at the front and one at the rear, promising excellent control and responsiveness. A "Trail mode" enhances off-road capability by applying brakes to spinning wheels and distributing torque to the opposite tire, which is not too different from what a limited-slip differential would do.

The e-Vitara is built on the newly developed "HEARTECT-e" platform designed specifically for EVs. It promises spacious interior thanks to its short overhangs.

In terms of size, the e-Vitara is a small SUV comparable to the Smart #1. It measures approximately 165.4 inches long, 70.9 inches wide, and 63 inches tall. The weight, as expected with EVs, is somewhat substantial due to the battery pack. The 2WD version with a smaller battery weighs 3,752 lb, the bigger battery adds another 214 lb while the 4WD model piles it all at 4,187 lb.

Suzuki has yet to release pricing details for the e-Vitara. Given its size, features, and target markets, it's likely to compete in the growing segment of affordable electric SUVs, hovering around $44,000 in Europe.

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