Suzuki reveals the cost for its first electric vehicle, the e Vitara
The automotive industry is abuzz with the latest offering from Suzuki, the e Vitara, marking the Japanese brand's foray into the electric vehicle (EV) market. The e Vitara, priced from £29,999, is set to challenge the compact electric SUV segment, boasting a range of features that make it a compelling choice for environmentally conscious consumers.
One of the key highlights of the e Vitara is its battery options. Two battery packs are available - a 49kWh unit offering around 200 miles (approx. 320 km) range with 144 PS motor, and a 61kWh unit offering about 250 miles (approx. 400 km) range with a more powerful 174 PS motor. The larger battery also supports all-wheel drive (AWD) with a second motor on the rear axle, delivering a total power of 184 PS [1][2].
Performance-wise, the e Vitara offers both front-wheel drive (FWD) and AWD options. The larger battery pack comes with the electric ALLGRIP-e system, providing enhanced traction for rough terrain [1][2]. The interior of the e Vitara is equally impressive, featuring semi-leatherette upholstery, a layered dashboard design, a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and a 10.1-inch digital driver display [1][4].
Safety features are not compromised in the e Vitara. It is Suzuki's first India model to come with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), boasting seven airbags, a 360-degree camera, tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS), electronic parking brake, front and rear parking sensors, blind spot monitor, and rear cross traffic alert [1][4].
Additional benefits of the e Vitara include rear seat flexibility, allowing for prioritization of legroom or luggage space, and a sliding and reclining rear bench that expands the boot space to 320 litres [2]. The e Vitara also comes with a 3-year/60,000-mile manufacturer’s warranty, with an extended warranty for UK customers through a service-activated plan up to 10 years or 100,000 miles, renewing annually with qualifying services by Suzuki service partners [4].
In terms of pricing, the e Vitara starts from £29,999 in the UK, rising to £37,799 for the AWD 61kWh top variant [3]. Australian pricing is expected to be lower than the UK’s, though specific figures are yet to be announced [3].
Compared to other electric SUVs such as the Ford Puma Gen-E, Renault 4, Kia EV3, Volvo EX30, and Toyota Urban Cruiser, the e Vitara stands out with its dual battery options, off-road capable AWD system (Allgrip-e), luxury interior features, and extensive safety suite with ADAS. Its warranty extension program, providing up to 10 years of coverage with regular servicing, is a valuable benefit that may be more comprehensive than standard warranties from some competitors [1][2][3][4].
In conclusion, the Suzuki e Vitara offers flexible battery choices, AWD capability, advanced safety and luxury features, and a strong warranty program, making it a competitive option in the compact electric SUV segment against its rivals such as Ford Puma Gen-E, Renault 4, Kia EV3, Volvo EX30, and Toyota Urban Cruiser [1][2][3][4]. The e Vitara will be available from launch with 0% PCP, payable over two years and with a 20% deposit.
- The e Vitara, with its dual battery options and advanced technology features like the electric ALLGRIP-e system and a luxurious interior, positions itself as a strong contender in the electric vehicle market, particularly in the compact electric SUV segment, competing with the likes of the Ford Puma Gen-E, Renault 4, Kia EV3, Volvo EX30, and Toyota Urban Cruiser.
- Moreover, the e Vitara's extensive safety suite, featuring ADAS and various driver-assistance technologies, and its generous warranty extension program, offering up to 10 years of coverage with regular servicing, serve to distinguish it from other gadgets and cars within its class, making it an appealing choice for environmentally conscious consumers seeking a blend of lifestyle, technology, and performance.