We’ve known it’s been coming for some time but now the pure-electric Suzuki e Vitara small SUV has been detailed ahead of its launch in what is effectively its home market of India.
Produced (for domestic and export consumption) at the Suzuki Motor Gujarat (SMG) plant in north-western India, the e Vitara rides on the brand’s ‘HEARTECT-e’ platform and features a choice of two - 49kWh and 61kWh - lithium ion battery packs, the latter delivering a claimed range of 500km.
A single electric motor in the nose produces 107kW/193Nm or 129kW/193Nm in line with battery size, with front-wheel drive for the Indian market. A dual-motor all-wheel drive version will also be produced for export, raising outputs to 137kW/300Nm. Multiple drive modes include ‘Eco’, ‘Normal’, ‘Sport’, ‘Snow’ and ‘Regen’, with ‘Trail’ on the AWD.
External dimensions for the five-seater are 4275mm (long), 1800mm (wide) and 1635mm (tall) with a healthy 2700mm wheelbase.
Aero efficiency is obviously a key focus, the car featuring a ‘Smart Grille’ with adaptive shutters, 18-inch aero alloy wheels, a full underbody cover and a rear roof spoiler.
The interior is dominated by a 10.1-inch central media display with multiple customisable screens, as well as a 10.25 digital instrument/information display for the driver. A broad, floating console includes wireless device charging.
Standard equipment in India is impressive, including a fixed glass sunroof, multi-colour ambient lighting, Infinity (by Harman) audio, a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat and ventilated front seats.
ADAS Level 2 safety includes AEB, adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, adaptive high beam, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, ‘Active Cornering Control’, a 360-degree camera view, tyre pressure monitoring, front and rear parking sensors and more.
Passive safety includes seven airbags - front, front side, side curtain and driver’s knee as well as multi-collision brake to help prevent additional impacts after an initial collision.
Suzuki Australia is yet to confirm if or when the e Vitara will hit our shores, although it is worth noting that the brand’s local division has been evaluating rival EV offerings like the Kia Niro and BYD Atto 3 at its Altona facility in Victoria over the last 18 months.