Suzuki is one of the few manufacturers that does not offer any fully electric models in its lineup. As a result, even with hybrid engines, the brand is under scrutiny for CO2 standards and must make adjustments in its range.
It is not enough for a manufacturer to simply meet current standards when launching a new model. Since 2015, brands must also comply with the CAFE (Corporate Average Fuel Economy) standard. In summary, this is an average of CO2 emissions that automakers must not exceed for their entire range.
Since 2021, the threshold is set at 95 g/km of CO2, but next year, it will drop to 81 g/km of CO2. And by 2030, the CAFE standard will reduce the emission rate to only 50 g/km of CO2. Brands must green their range. This is the case for Suzuki, which does not fare well in this regard. The Japanese manufacturer offers hybrid, mild hybrid (with a starter-alternator), and plug-in hybrid thanks to the Toyota RAV4 clone (Suzuki Across), for example, but this is not enough.
Making room for electric vehicles
What do Ferrari and Suzuki have in common? Both brand names end with an “i”? Yes, but most importantly, neither currently offer a 100% electric model. In 2024, this is rare enough to be highlighted. However, this gap will be filled next year by the Japanese manufacturer with an SUV previewed by the eVX concept, presented in 2023. According to our colleagues at Autonews Europe, the head of Suzuki in the UK has stated a desire to “make room for electric vehicles.” This translates into the discontinuation of several models, thus lowering the brand’s emission rate.
Among these retired models are the small Ignis city car and the Swace estate, a clone of the Toyota Corolla Touring Sports. The famous Jimny should also disappear, before returning with a hybrid engine by the end of the year or in 2025, and even in a 100% electric version by 2030. It is expected to be one of the five electric models that Suzuki has announced for this period.
Farewell Swift Sport
It was also expected that by renewing the sports version based on its new Swift, Suzuki would not be able to meet the CAFE standard. Therefore, the Japanese hot hatch will not have a replacement. It’s a shame, especially since it brought a great alternative in a segment that is declining rapidly.