Suzuki has unveiled the new Across, the first electrified vehicle from the brand.
It is based on Toyota’s RAV4 with the Japanese manufacturer describing it as a robust and sporty SUV equipped with a sophisticated plug-in hybrid system and an E-Four electronic 4x4. It adds that it delivers uncompromising performance and efficiency with the capability and styling of a full-fledged modern SUV.
The Across is the first model supplied from Toyota Motor Corporation under the collaborative business agreement between Toyota and Suzuki.
Across sales are set to start in autumn of 2020 in Europe, but no price has been announced yet.
A derivative of the Toyota Corolla is expected to follow, and to be built at Toyota’s Derbyshire plant in the UK, but the outcome of Brexit negations may determine that.
Both brands announced in March that they intended to expand their collaboration in new fields after agreeing to pool their expertise to develop alternative fuel vehicles (AFV ) and compact cars.
The Across features an impressive SUV design, which bears a strong resemblance to the Toyota RAV4, except for the new front-end. Suzuki points to a robust polygonal body that combines characteristic SUV toughness and a sporty front face featuring a large open grille. Further features include sophisticated LED headlamps with a bi-beam projector (combining low and high beams ) and a LED DRL, and premium quality 19-inch alloy wheels with black gloss coating and a distinctive polished face.
It will be powered by a highly sophisticated plug-in hybrid system that Suzuki boasts delivers superior fuel efficiency and CO2 emissions, with quick response and smooth acceleration.
It adds that the Across is equipped with the E-Four electronic 4x4 system, which ensures efficient and effective 4x4 performance for confidence inspiring handling and control even in slippery conditions.
Suzuki says the interior environment of the Across has been designed to evoke a sense of comfort, luxury and driving confidence. It adds that further enhancing the driver and passenger experience is a nine-inch touchscreen display that works with Apple CarPlay for iPhone, Android Auto and MirrorLink for compatible smartphones.
While cabin space is designed for ample comfort in both the first and second rows, there has been no compromise in luggage space. The large 490-litre luggage compartment provides plenty of space to store luggage for a wide range of lifestyles and purposes.
Suzuki claims the plug-in hybrid system in the Across provides unparalleled fuel economy (although its press release makes no specific fuel efficiency claims ) and smooth acceleration, with CO2 emissions of just 22g/km.
It says at the core of the plug-in hybrid system is a powerful front electric motor that delivers vigorous torque at low speeds and combines with a powerful 2.5-litre petrol engine for rapid acceleration at higher speeds.
With a maximum output of 134kW and 270Nm of torque, the electric motor draws its energy from an 18.1kWh (50.9Ah ) high capacity lithium ion battery that is mounted beneath the floor.
Paired to the electric motor is the A25A-FXS Dynamic Force engine, which functions as a charger for the battery and provides power assistance to the electric motor during high-speed driving if required. Suzuki says it is designed to deliver both high output and excellent fuel efficiency.
The plug-in hybrid system is equipped with four modes - the default EV mode, auto EV/HV mode, HV mode, and battery charger mode - which the driver can select depending on driving conditions and battery status. In EV mode the vehicle is driven entirely by the power of the electric motor even under full acceleration. When in Auto EV/HV mode and HV mode, the engine contributes to power delivery when required, such as when the accelerator is pressed strongly. To store electricity for EV mode when the charge is low, the battery charger mode runs the engine to re-charge the battery.
The state-of-the-art E-Four electronic 4x4 system in the Across provides drivers with genuine 4x4 performance while maintaining superior fuel efficiency.
Pricing details of the Suzuki Across and the Toyota RAV4 plug-in hybrid version have not been released to date.
Toyota unveiled the RAV4 plug-in hybrid concept at the Los Angeles Auto Show last November. It features a circa 300PS drive train and claiming about a 65km electric driving range.
