After granting a sneak peek to the public at last year’s Philippine International Motor Show (PIMS), Suzuki Philippines Inc. (SPH) officially unveiled its first-ever (in the Philippines) hybrid model, the 7-seater Ertiga Hybrid MPV.
Boasting advanced features including Engine Auto Stop Start System (EASS), a 4.2” full-color TFT LCD multi-information display, cruise control, automatic headlamp with follow-me-home headlamp function among its various fuel-efficient features, the Ertiga Hybrid brings a new level of technology to the affordable compact MPV segment.
“The introduction of the new Ertiga Hybrid marks a great beginning for SPH as we introduce our first hybrid entry in the market. With the Ertiga being our flagship and bestselling model, incorporating the hybrid technology and other benefits that it has, this makes the product a well-packed choice for our customers,” says Norihide Takei, Director and General Manager for Suzuki Automobile.
Sporting an understatedly elegant styling with its long, flowing lines, the new Ertiga Hybrid presents a modern front grille with chrome accents and a distinctive “Hybrid” emblem on the tailgate. Black accents on the lower portion of the front bumper and on the fog lamp surrounds, plus flashy 15-inch machine-finished two-tone alloy wheels (with 185/65R15 tires) add a touch of sportiness.
The Ertiga’s interior provides comfortable seating for up to 7 people in a 2-3-2 layout with multiple easy-adjust configurations to accommodate numerous people/cargo-loading combinations. The Ertiga’s third-row seat even has decent legroom—something that can’t be said of some of the much bigger midsize diesel SUVs.
The new Ertiga Hybrid is packed with passive and active safety features. Aside from the usual dual SRS airbags and ABS with EBD, the Ertiga Hybrid is equipped with Hill-Hold Control and Electronic Stability Program (ESP) to help keep you in better control of the vehicle, even in slippery conditions.
The Ertiga’s body structure is based on Suzuki’s TECT (Total-Effective Control Technology) and new HEARTECT platform, which makes the body light and rigid and effectively absorbs impact upon collision while improving overall driving dynamics.
The Ertiga Hybrid is powered by a strong and fuel-efficient 1.5-liter petrol engine, which produces impressive torque for quick acceleration. Integrated Starter Generator (ISG) replaces the conventional alternator that has the functionality of charging the battery, while providing assistance during standing starts and acceleration. It also has Engine Auto Stop Start System (EASS) that automatically stops the engine when the vehicle is in idle to prevent unnecessary fuel consumption, while limiting exhaust emissions and engine noise for a quiet ride.
The new Suzuki Ertiga Hybrid comes with a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic. Drivers can focus on the road with cruise control and audio system controls integrated on the premium-feeling flat-bottom steering wheel. The Ertiga Hybrid is also equipped with a 10-inch touchscreen audio system with Smartlink connectivity.
The Ertiga Hybrid reinforces Suzuki’s reputation of offering fuel-efficient vehicles, posting an impressive 12.54 km/L (7.6% better than the regular non-hybrid Ertiga in city driving), as observed by the Automotive Association of the Philippines (AAP).
In addition, Suzuki’s first hybrid vehicle offering qualifies under the EVIDA implementing rules and regulations. With that, future owners will be exempted from number coding, enjoy 15% discount on vehicle registration, priority lane on vehicle and franchise registration, and TESDA training program, among others.
The new Suzuki Ertiga comes in a variety of colors in GA and GL/GLX variants: Snow White Pearl, Silky Silver Metallic, and Cool Black Pearl for GA variants and Metallic Magma Gray, Burgundy Red Pearl, and Brave Khaki Pearl for the GL/GLX variants
The new Suzuki Ertiga Hybrid comes in 4 variants with surprisingly low pricing: GA M/T Php954,000; GL M/T Php1,068,000; GL A/T Php1,103,000; and GLX A/T Php1,153,000. It’s now available at all 71 Suzuki Auto dealerships nationwide.
