Suzuki e Vitara
By Tim Saunders
“Make sure that the motor is actually running when demisting the windscreen,” advises Adrian as he drops off the Suzuki e Vitara, adding that they’ve got very small batteries and can go flat if such a task is performed when the motor is switched off. On a full charge the e Vitara has a range of around 225 miles but this, as with all electric vehicles, is dependent on driving style, i.e. the slower you go, the further you’ll get. It’s an attractive little family car that will seat five.
It’s half-term so there’s football training, an away football match, a trip to the theatre and a shopping trip to Fareham. All good for putting the e Vitara through its paces. There are three driving modes: eco, standard and sport. Eco is a little sluggish, as you might expect but does the job and seems pretty efficient. It’s encouraging that the range reading seems to be of the more reliable kind, one that the driver might actually be able to trust, which is a first for me in an electric car. With a 0 to 60mph time of between seven and nine seconds, depending on the model, the e Vitara is swift enough at the traffic lights and I find it easily overtakes a Porsche.
The ride is smooth and my rear passengers are comfortable. Initially going from a large 4x4 to this more compact vehicle is a little shock but we all get used to it quickly enough. It’s interesting to note that the seats seem quite firm as does the suspension. It’s fitted with all the usual refinements including all round electric windows, air conditioning and an electrically adjustable driver’s seat. Overall the seats feel quite hard but it’s helpful that the rear seats can be moved forward or back, making it more comfortable for taller passengers while also being useful for awkward loads. The glass roof panel lightens up the dark cabin, especially on a dreary day. What is frustrating is that, at night, the headlights automatically go on to full beam when they shouldn’t – when there is a vehicle directly in front of me – and that is frustrating because I have to dip them.
On my first drive I struggle to select Park and then realise it’s just a matter of pressing the P. The interior is well designed as is the dashboard. It feels like a good amount of car for the money and I like the fact that the top speed is limited to 93mph. There’s no need to go any faster in the UK. Externally, the test model, finished in black with privacy glass looks very cool indeed with its rather boxy angular design. This five door looks like a three door thanks to its clever design with the rear door handles being hidden in the bodywork, a design feature borrowed from Honda. There’s a sunroof too but try as I might I cannot find the foot warmer and that means my feet remain cold; the older I get warm feet are a must. That said, there’s a lot to like about this electric car.
Facts at a glance
