New Suzuki e Vitara becomes firm’s first all-electric car

Available in two or four-wheel drive with an estimated 248 miles of range, we find out if Suzuki’s belated electric arrival has been worth the wait.

Better late than never, right? Meet Suzuki’s first foray into the world of electric cars: the all-new e Vitara. And, first things first, where has it been for the last five years? While the Japanese marque’s key rivals have been electrifying SUVs since the turn of the decade, Suzuki has stood idly by with nothing to offer. Perhaps that’s due to President Toshihiro Suzuki’s reluctance to fully commit to an electric future. Or, maybe it’s just a symptom of slowing EV demand more generally. Whatever the reason, we’re just glad it’s finally here. Keep reading for the full lowdown. 

Ruggedly handsome: The e Vitara’s ‘robust’ styling 

The new electric gubbins might be the e Vitara’s party piece, but Suzuki has made sure they’re wrapped in a pretty package. Designed to embody the themes of ‘high tech’ and ‘adventure’, a long wheelbase, chunky sidewall tyres, and plastic body cladding, combine to give the e Vitara a strong presence. Is it the best-looking car in its class? Probably not, but we think it strikes the right balance between eye-catching and sophisticated.

Smooth operator: The e Vitara’s electric powertrain 

Given Suzuki took its sweet time developing the Vitara’s EV setup, the headline stats are fairly unremarkable. Base model cars come equipped with a puny 49 kWh battery hooked up to a 142-bhp motor on the front axle. Upgrade to the 61-kWh model and you’ll get greater range — though the official figures are still under wraps — plus an extra 30 bhp to play with. While those looking for the most capable (and powerful) off-roader, should choose the range-topping four-wheel drive model with an additional, rear-mounted 64-bhp motor. 

As for the performance, based on the power specs it’s unlikely any e Vitara will feel particularly explosive off the line. Then again, with the exception of Volvo’s shockingly potent EX30, few cars in this class are much of a hot rod. Considering most owners will value the e Vitara’s serene, effortless progress over warp-speed acceleration, the Suzuki’s relative lack of grunt shouldn’t be an issue.

A cosy cabin: The E Vitara’s interior and practicality 

Inside, vertical air vents and swathes of brown leather are strangely similar to a 1970s Rover SD1 — a look we’re not sure Suzuki was trying to emulate — though it’s a fairly genial coincidence. The two-spoke steering wheel, on the other hand, is more akin to a modern Skoda item, with buttons to control the infotainment and cruise control mounted on the spokes. Suzuki is yet to divulge a full list of standard equipment, however, if the large dual screens and relatively button-free layout are any indication, the e Vitara should be a winner on this front. 

Unfortunately, as with the powertrain, the e Vitara’s practicality is far from class leading. A modest boot (320 litres) offers less space than even the smallest rivals, while early reports suggest a high floor in the rear could compromise passenger comfort. 

Coming soon: The e Vitara’s pricing and availability 

Following Toshihiro Suzuki’s latest announcement that the firm looks to throttle back on its previously promised five-car EV strategy, who knows what the future holds for further electric vehicles. In the meantime, if you’re not one to obsess over facts and figures, there’s plenty to like about the new e Vitara. We just can’t help but wonder if it needs a bit more pizzazz to appeal in this crowded yet uncertain segment. 

Would you take a chance on Suzuki’s first-ever EV? If so, it’s due to land next summer with an expected starting price of around £35,000.

Hero image credit: Suzuki