Suzuki Launches eVitara in Ireland: Brand’s First Fully Electric SUV...

Suzuki has officially launched the eVitara, the brand’s first fully electric car, with UK deliveries having begun in October 2025. The new model marks a major milestone in Suzuki’s global electrification strategy and introduces an all-new EV platform, fresh design language, and a choice of two battery capacities.

Attending the launch of this all-new eVitara to the Irish market during an event held at Powerscourt Estate, I was afforded the chance to drive Suzuki’s latest model not just on-road, but also off the beaten track. And it didn’t disappoint.

Japanese manufacturer Suzuki, long recognised for producing small, rugged and agile 4x4s, is expanding its presence in the electric vehicle market with the launch of the all‑new e Vitara. The model joins a diverse lineup that includes the Swift, Vitara Hybrid and S‑Cross, reinforcing the brand’s reputation for compact yet capable vehicles.

Suzuki reported 2.42 million global sales in 2025—an increase of 5.3% over the previous year—driven largely by its strong mass‑market presence in India. The company enters 2026 with renewed confidence as it targets buyers seeking a smaller electric SUV, a segment currently populated by competitors such as the Kia EV3, Hyundai Kona, MGS5, Ford Puma and Volvo EX40.

Built on an all‑new chassis, and priced from £26,249 the e Vitara aims to distinguish itself with improved build quality, Suzuki’s well‑established customer service reputation and optional all‑wheel drive, offering off‑road capability uncommon in this class. The SUV debuts as Suzuki celebrates both the Vitara’s 37th anniversary and 55 years of four‑wheel‑drive development.

As part of the launch incentives, customers purchasing an e Vitara will receive a free Ohme home charge point, including standard installation. Suzuki has partnered with dealerships to ensure chargers are installed before customers collect their new vehicle. The brand is also offering 0% finance deals, making the transition to electric—along with a potential switch to Suzuki—an attractive proposition for many buyers.

Initial on‑road impressions highlight the e Vitara’s composed driving manners, but its off‑road performance is what delivers the biggest surprise. Despite having less ground clearance than larger purpose‑built SUVs, the model showcased unexpected capability on the challenging estate tracks at Powerscourt.

A full breakdown of specifications and features follow, and a comprehensive road test is planned in the coming months with a model secured for extended evaluation.

Two Battery Options, 4WD Capability and Up to 264-Mile Range

The eVitara is available in two familiar Suzuki grades — Motion and Ultra — with customers able to select either a 49kWh or 61kWh battery on Motion models, while Ultra variants come exclusively with the larger 61kWh pack.

The 61kWh 2WD version delivers a WLTP combined range of 264 miles, placing it competitively within the compact electric SUV sector. Ultra, priced from £32,049 can also be specified with Suzuki’s new ALLGRIP‑e dual‑motor electric 4WD system, which adds a rear eAxle for additional traction, performance and off‑road capability.

New Heartect‑e Platform Designed Exclusively for EVs

Underpinning the eVitara is Suzuki’s newly developed Heartect‑e platform — engineered specifically for battery‑electric vehicles. The architecture incorporates a flat floor, short overhangs and a rigid, high‑tensile steel structure designed to maximise cabin space, improve crash protection, and optimise driving efficiency.

Suzuki says the platform doubles the use of high‑tensile materials compared with previous models, while redesigned underbody covers and a low‑profile battery pack contribute to improved aerodynamics and reduced energy consumption.

High‑Tech & Adventure: A New Design Direction

Stylistically, the eVitara introduces a bold evolution of Suzuki’s SUV identity. The exterior features:

• Deeply sculpted body lines
• A distinctive grille‑less front face made from DURABIO plant‑derived material
• Matrix LED headlamps
• A long 2,700mm wheelbase and short overhangs
• SUV‑style protective cladding and vertical rear door handles

Ultra models add a dual‑tone roof, glass panoramic panel, and 19‑inch alloy wheels, while Motion variants come with new 18‑inch machined alloys.

Inside, the “High‑Tech & Adventure” theme continues with a 10.25-inch digital instrument panel seamlessly paired with a 10.1-inch multimedia touchscreen, ambient lighting with 12 selectable colours, a floating centre console and a newly designed D‑shaped steering wheel.

The rear seats offer unusual flexibility for this segment, with 160mm of sliding travel, 10‑step recline adjustment and a 60:40 layout to increase legroom or luggage capacity as needed.

Performance: New eAxle System and LFP Batteries

Driving the eVitara is Suzuki’s high‑efficiency eAxle system, integrating the motor, inverter and reduction gears into one compact unit. Outputs vary by battery and drivetrain:

• 49kWh, 2WD: 106kW
• 61kWh, 2WD: 128kW
• 61kWh, ALLGRIP‑e: 135kW combined (front + rear motors), with 114Nm extra torque from the rear eAxle

The vehicle uses Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) batteries borrowed from BYD stable — chosen for safety, durability and thermal stability — with liquid cooling, individual cell chambers, and extensive high‑voltage protection built into the body structure.

Charging and Thermal Management

The charging system supports:

• 45-minute DC rapid charging (10–80%)
• 11kW (3‑phase) AC charging in 4.5–5.5 hours
• 7kW AC charging in around 9 hours

A standout feature is the standard-fit heat pump, a rarity among rivals, which manages both cabin and battery temperatures to maximise range in extreme weather.

A convenient “My Room” mode lets drivers stay in the vehicle during charging while using climate control or the infotainment system.

Advanced Safety and Driver Assistance

The eVitara arrives with a comprehensive suite of safety technologies, including:

• Dual Sensor Brake Support (AEB)
• Adaptive Cruise Control
• Lane Keep Assist & Lane Departure Prevention
• Blind Spot Monitor & Rear Cross Traffic Alert
• Driver Monitoring System
• High Beam Assist (Adaptive High Beam on Ultra models)
• Multiple Collision Braking, a new system that applies the brakes automatically after an airbag-triggered impact to help prevent secondary collisions

The model has earned a four‑star Euro NCAP rating under the latest 2025 criteria.

Connectivity and Equipment

Suzuki includes a three‑year subscription to Suzuki Connect, enabling:

• Remote climate control
• Remote seat and steering wheel heater pre-conditioning
• Charging status updates
• Battery monitoring
• Scheduled charging

Both Motion and Ultra grades come with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, navigation, four speakers, and extensive cabin lighting. Ultra models upgrade to a premium Infinity sound system with subwoofer and amplifier.

Warranty and Ownership

Suzuki is offering one of the most comprehensive warranty packages in the class:

• 10 years / 100,000 miles vehicle warranty (3 years manufacturer + 7 years service-activated)
• 8 years battery warranty, plus an additional 2 years service-activated coverage

A Global Milestone for Suzuki

The eVitara will be produced initially at Suzuki’s Gujarat plant in India for European markets before a broader global rollout. Suzuki President Toshihiro Suzuki calls the model a “significant milestone” in the company’s journey toward carbon neutrality, with four more BEVs planned for launch by 2030.