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Following the launch of the long-wheelbase Jimny XL, Suzuki will introduce at least two new models in 2024 as well as bringing its hybrid technology to Australia for the first time.
The brand’s lineup consists mainly of small cars and SUVs with a plethora of sub 4.3-metre options to consider.
Currently, Suzuki only sells petrol vehicles in Australia, though local general manager indicated that hybrid – be it mild or true petrol-electric – is likely to arrive in 2024. Suzuki’s first electric model, the production version of the eVX, is due in 2025.
Keep scrolling if you’re interested in Suzuki Australia’s upcoming product portfolio.
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JUMP AHEAD
Fronx
The first model on Suzuki’s hit list is the Fronx, which was revealed in January 2023 at Auto Expo India as a Maruti Suzuki product.
Size-wise, the 3995mm long Fronx – described as a ‘coupe-style’ SUV by the brand – sits between the Ignis and Vitara monocoque SUVs in Suzuki’s range, and will be classified as a light SUV in Australia.
The brand’s Aussie arm has not confirmed powertrains yet, but overseas it is powered by either a 66kW/130Nm 1.2-litre four-cylinder – as found in the Swift(?) – or a mild hybrid 1.0-litre turbo-petrol producing 74kW/148Nm.
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If Suzuki decides to bring the one-litre Fronx to Oz, it could be the brand’s first hybrid model. Something that general manager Michael Pachota is hoping will join the local portfolio in 2024.
Initial details confirmed by Suzuki include that the Fronx will be available with a 360-degree camera, head-up display, wireless charging and air conditioning vents for rear passengers. We expect pricing to start in the mid-low $30K bracket and climb above $40K for a fully loaded example.
eVX
First revealed at the Delhi Auto Show in January 2023, the Suzuki eVX concept previews Suzuki’s first all-electric vehicle.
At about 4.3-metres long, its yet another small SUV from Suzuki, and is about the same size as the existing S-Cross which was recently facelifted. According to the head of design, Suzuki is targeting a 500km driving range for the eVX ahead of a 2025 launch.
The small electric SUV will be manufactured for global markets, including Europe and Asia with Australia introduction likely in 2025/2026.
In its sheetmetal – which isn’t too far removed from production – there’s elements of Suzuki’s signature toughness, with Vitara-like volumes and details, while inside the concept’s glass crystal gear selector features a rhinoceros insignia which may carry into the finished product.
Swift
Referred to as a new generation Swift, the latest light car looks rather similar to the existing model with which it shares a 2450mm wheelbase.
The new car is also 40mm narrower and, while a new ‘Z12E’ 1.2-litre three-cylinder engine has been announced it doesn’t develop much grunt, at just 60kW and 108Nm. For Australian consumption, expect more powerful engine options mated with the car’s new CVT automatic. There’s no new-gen Swift Sport confirmed.
We know a mild-hybrid system is very much on the cards, potentially cutting fuel efficiency though without a true hybrid it won’t come close to the 3.3L/100km claim of the Toyota Yaris.
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Inside, there are higher-quality materials mated with a 9.0-inch touchscreen. It may be the same size as Aussie Swifts currently get, but beneath the screen is a more powerful processor and the ability to run Apple CarPlay and Android Auto wirelessly, as seen in the five-door Jimny XL.
Pricing will be confirmed closer to the Swift’s 2024 release. Given the mild nature of the updates, we don’t expect the new light car to make huge jumps over the existing $22,490 (before on-road costs) start price.
Vitara and Grand Vitara
The current fourth-gen Vitara emerged on the global stage in 2015 and has been through a single facelift since then. Eight years into its sales life, Suzuki will be looking to replace the small SUV shortly.
However, there are precious few details on what could replace the regular Vitara, and with the more modern S-Cross on sale in Australia Suzuki has another slightly larger option in a similar price space.
One possibility is that the Vitara nameplate will be reserved for the production version of the eVX (though the ‘V’ there could be a red herring), another is that the Maruti Grand Vitara, revealed in India in 2022 could offer replacement.
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With styling more akin to the Fronx, the Grand Vitara could be suitable for our market – especially as it’s available with a 1.5-litre petrol-electric hybrid (not a mild one) developing a total of 85kW.
The only problem with Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara is its proximity to the S-Cross, measuring only 45mm longer and 50mm taller than the existing SUV.
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