2024 Suzuki e-Vitara BEV debuts; for global sales, LFP battery, electric 4WD, and will also be sold as a Toyota

This is the Suzuki e Vitara, the Japanese brand's first-ever battery electric vehicle (BEV). Set as the brand's first global BEV SUV, it will go on sale in Europe, India, and Japan beginning summer 2025. It will be manufactured at Suzuki Motor Cars' plant in Gujerat, India.

More pertinently however, this is the first look at the car that Suzuki will build and supply to Toyota, as part of a deepening relationship between the two companies.

Specs of Suzuki e Vitara

This is the production version of last year’s eVX concept, available with front- or all-wheel drive and two lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery options.

Front-wheel drive models generate 144 PS and 189 Nm of torque with the 49 kWh battery, or 174 PS and 189 Nm with the 61kWh battery. Range was not given at point of publication.

All-wheel drive versions use the larger 61 kWh battery and add a 65 PS rear motor, boosting total output to 184 PS and 300 Nm; making it the most powerful Suzuki model in a while.

The electric all-wheel drive system, called Allgrip-e, includes a Trail mode that simulates a limited-slip differential for enhanced off-road capability.

All of this rests on the Heartect-e platform, a BEV-specific architecture that's developed in collaboration with Toyota and Daihatsu. Standout features include its lightweight structure, high-voltage protection, a short overhang, and no underfloor members by the chassis to maximise battery capacity.

In terms of dimensions, its 4,275 mm length, 1,635 mm height, and 1,800 mm width makes it about the size of a Mazda CX-3. Its wheelbase measures 2,700 mm long, so it should be quite roomy for its five occupants.

Though Suzuki has shared technical specifications, the feature list for the e Vitara remains unconfirmed.

A peek inside, however, reveals a digital instrument cluster that includes a map display and an infotainment touchscreen, both integrated within a single unit. The center stack is clean and minimal, with only a few physical controls for the climate system.

At the bottom, there’s a wireless charging pad for smartphones, while further back on the console are two cupholders and controls for drive modes, trail mode, hill descent control, and the electronic parking brake.

Buttons on the steering wheel suggest it will also feature adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist.

Suzuki Motor Corporation President Toshihiro Suzuki stated that the launch of the e Vitara marks a major step toward achieving carbon neutrality. This debut, he said, will pave the way for a broader lineup of more BEVs, along with offering a range of options such as hybrids, carbon neutral gas, biofuel, and ethanol-powered cars, each suited to the unique needs of different regions.