With the Across, Suzuki has expanded its portfolio with a large-format model as a plug-in hybrid. The Across project grew out of a partnership between Toyota and Suzuki. The mutual marketing of passenger cars saves development costs and expands the opportunities for new customer groups for both car brands. While Suzuki focuses on mild hybrid technology, hybrid technology is offered in the Across in cooperation with Toyota.
The model is available with mild hybrid technology in the version with the 1,4 l as a mild hybrid version and now also as a full hybrid. We tested the new full hybrid version with a 1,5 l in-line four-cylinder engine and a 24,6 kW electric motor.
The sixth generation Swift has been on sale in Europe since 2017. With the use of a new platform, on which the Suzuki Baleno is based in a modified form, the weight could be reduced to 1.095 kg for the sports version. The rear door handles of the exclusively five-door vehicle are now located next to the C-pillar, the front grille is more emphasized. Due to the stricter European emission values, the manufacturer is currently relying on the mild hybrid version with a 48-volt system for sports. The Swift we tested is powered by a four-cylinder engine with direct injection as a mild hybrid version. Are the sporting values convincing?
In the coming years, Suzuki will adapt to the stricter requirements on the European market in the area of emission standards. While initially there was a share swap between the two Japanese brands Toyota and Suzuki, there is now also cooperation in the operational business. The two Suzuki models Across and Swace are available with plenty of hybrid technology from the established Toyota group. This is intended to reduce CO2 emissions and curb the consumption of cars. We are testing the station wagon Swace, which is currently being delivered as a full hybrid.
Michio Suzuki founded the company Suzuki Loom Manufacturing as early as 1920. The original loom manufacturer has grown into one of the most important motorcycle, car and outboard engine manufacturers in the world over the last few decades.
The Vitara has been part of the universally usable SUV, which is designed for everyday use and off-road use, since 1988. The fourth generation of the on- and off-roader can now be found on the streets with a facelift from 2018. As with all manufacturers, Suzuki relies on downsizing and mild hybrid technology for all car models to reduce exhaust emissions in conventional gasoline engines.