Suzuki has kept things simple as it launched its first electric car, and that is very much the point.
Instead of introducing a quirky sub‑brand or reinventing its naming structure, Suzuki has simply placed a discreet “e” in front of the long‑established Vitara name.
The range is equally uncomplicated, offering two battery capacities, two trim levels and the choice of front or four‑wheel drive. It occupies similar ground to the petrol-electric Vitara Hybrid, which will continue to be sold alongside it, offering customers a familiar transition into electrification.
The e Vitara also continues Suzuki’s collaborative relationship with Toyota, but Suzuki has taken the lead role in development this time.
Powertrain options begin with 49kWh and 61kWh battery packs, both using compact ‘blade’ cells sourced from BYD. The smaller battery powers a 142bhp motor with 193Nm of torque, while the 61kWh version produces 172bhp with the same torque figure. For those choosing the AllGrip‑e system, the configuration changes to a dual‑motor set‑up with four‑wheel drive, producing 181bhp and a healthier 307Nm of torque.
On paper the dual‑motor model looks rapid enough, but the power delivery is measured rather than explosive. While some family‑oriented EVs now offer startling acceleration, Suzuki has not chased headline numbers, preferring to focus on smooth and predictable power delivery.
The driving experience mirrors that sense of calm. The e Vitara offers three selectable drive modes – Eco, Normal and Sport – but the differences largely centre on throttle response, with sport sharpening the pedal.
Steering is accurate but light, and while the car feels secure and predictable, it never encourages enthusiastic cornering.
Where it does excel is in light off‑road conditions. Thanks to its dual motors and well‑calibrated AllGrip‑e system, the e Vitara will go further into muddy tracks, rutted lanes and wet inclines than most of its small‑SUV rivals.
Ride comfort is another strong point. Despite wearing large wheels, the suspension has been tuned to deal well with potholes and patchy surfaces.
At low speeds it feels settled and absorbent, and even when the surface breaks up it keeps its composure. The downside is a lack of refinement at higher speeds, where wind noise around the mirrors and road noise from the tyres become more noticeable than in some rivals.
In Ultra form, the e Vitara is fitted with the larger 61kWh battery, which delivers an official combined range of up to 245 miles. In everyday use, that figure feels realistic rather than optimistic, particularly if the car is driven in Eco or Normal modes.
The e Vitara supports AC charging at up to 11kW, allowing a full 10–100 per cent charge in around five and a half hours when connected to a suitable three‑phase supply.
For longer journeys, the e Vitara is compatible with DC rapid charging, where it can replenish its battery from 10 to 80 per cent in roughly 45 minutes. That’s not the fastest in the segment, but it is quick enough to make motorway travel practical. Suzuki has also included battery preconditioning and thermal management, helping to maintain consistent charging speeds and protect long‑term battery health.
Inside, the layout is straightforward and familiar.
The Ultra model offers a digital instrument cluster, a central touchscreen with navigation and wireless phone mirroring, and a decent mix of physical controls for everyday functions. Equipment levels are generous for the price point, with heated seats, a heated steering wheel, ambient lighting and a good spread of active safety features all included. The infotainment system itself is one of the car’s weaker points; it can be slow to respond, and its menu structure is occasionally frustrating.
Most drivers will find themselves relying on Apple CarPlay or Android Auto instead.
All-in-all, the e Vitara is an easy car to live with offering plenty of practicality.
The Lowdown: Suzuki e‑Vitara Ultra
VERSION: 61kWh ALLGRIP‑e
PRICE: £37,799 OTR
BATTERY OPTIONS: 49kWh or 61kWh lithium‑iron ‘blade’ batteries (BYD)
PERFORMANCE: 0-62mph in 7.4 seconds
TOP SPEED: 93mph
RANGE: Up to 245 miles (61kWh, combined cycle)
DC rapid charging: 10–80% in approx 45 minutes
