2023 Suzuki Ertiga Hybrid: 5 reasons why this MPV may be the one for you
Suzuki Ertiga gets the hybrid edge
In every class of automobile, there are rules and conventions that automakers play by. That’s the case in the compact MPV class.
Every brand aims to have an affordable 7-seat MPV with a small engine that’s just right for the size, adequate safety features, and practical versatility. It’s just the name of the game, and everyone plays it well.
Every so often, someone comes along and introduces something new that changes the rules and breaks the conventions set before. Why play by the same rules when you can do something new?
That’s certainly the case for Suzuki with the new 2023 Ertiga. There’s something new under the hood and a few more surprises along the way.
Enhanced Efficiency
The Ertiga is already a familiar vehicle enjoyed by many Filipino families, but for 2023 Suzuki is introducing a new twist for the Ertiga and a first in the class: hybrid technology. Under the hood of the Ertiga is the K15B which makes 105 PS and 138 Nm of torque, but it has been upgraded to become an SHVS: Smart Hybrid Vehicle by Suzuki.
Instead of having an alternator, the Ertiga Hybrid has an Integrated Starter Generator (ISG) that can charge up a 12-volt lithium-ion hybrid battery. While a regular automobile alternator is spun by a belt to generate voltage for a vehicle, the ISG can also drive the belt to provide a power boost. That opens up a lot of possibilities for hybrid drive and for efficiency.
The system has EASS or Engine Auto Start-Stop system. This enables the Ertiga Hybrid to shut down the engine while you’re stopped at an intersection, reducing fuel consumption that would have otherwise been wasted just idling. When the light turns green, the ISG restarts the engine and you can go.
The ISG also provides a power-up when you do start going. It gives the engine a helping hand, so to speak; when accelerating from a standstill to reduce the load and help keep the revolutions low.
What this does is reduce the consumption during the most inefficient parts of driving: idling and getting moving from a standstill. In the city fuel economy tests conducted by Suzuki, the vehicle achieved 12.54 kilometers per liter which is a 7.6% improvement over the non-hybrid Ertiga.
Refined Style
Now that the technical bits are clear, then what’s next is really the styling. And that’s where Suzuki really stepped it up with the Ertiga Hybrid.
The Ertiga has always had a strong curb appeal with its elegant design, strong character lines, and striking details. For 2023, they stepped it up even more as Suzuki introduced upscale elements such as the new grille with chrome accents, new wheel designs, new taillights, and more.
The interior also exudes a sporty vibe with the darker two-tone look, premium materials, and many more. Of course, design is just the start. The real benefit is when you start using it every day.
Maximized Versatility
Where the Ertiga Hybrid excels is when it comes to space and how it is maximized. This vehicle can comfortably seat a family of seven; two in front, three in the middle, and another two in the very back.
All around the cabin, there are storage options smartly positioned for your convenience. From door pockets, compartments, and even a concealed storage bin behind the third row, you have all the nooks and crannies you need for all kinds of stuff. And the best part is even with all seats occupied, you’ve got up to 199 liters of cargo space left behind the third row when you lift up the lid.
But the magic of the Ertiga Hybrid is when it comes to bulky items. You can fold the middle row 60:40 style and the third row 50:50, meaning you can mix and match depending on what you need to carry. If you want to fold it all down, you can too. That means the next time you shop for a big smart LED TV, there’s no need for expensive delivery fees.
Cruise in Comfort and Safety
The 2023 Suzuki Ertiga Hybrid is efficient, stylish, and practical, but it’s also convenient and reassuring to drive thanks to a series of features that makes driving easier and safer. That’s especially true for the GLX versions.
The steering wheel has a d-shape design for that sporty feel and sits just in front of a new stylish instrument meter cluster with a proud shade of blue. In the GLX variant, you’ll enjoy a new 4.2” color multi-info display that gives you all the data you need on the road, while expressway driving will be made easier thanks to a new cruise control system.
The audio system is a 10” touchscreen unit, and can easily connect to your smartphone so you can enjoy your music on the go. And you’ve got the convenience of an automatic air conditioning system, push-button ignition, reverse parking sensors, and a camera.
Safety is always the priority, and that’s where Suzuki excels. The Ertiga Hybrid’s body frame is Suzuki’s own HEARTECT platform that uses a design and materials that effectively absorbs impact forces and enhances the rigidity of the passenger cell. Suzuki also equipped the Ertiga Hybrid with plenty of other safety features such as dual airbags, anti-lock brakes, and an electronic stability program. That means you can drive easily, and drive confidently.
The Price is Right
What’s unique about the Ertiga Hybrid is that Suzuki gave customers the option to choose three different trim levels with GA, GL, and GLX, and the hybrid can also be had as a 4-speed automatic or a 5-speed manual. It’s really up to you which one you choose, depending on how you want to drive.
The pricing is also just right: the 2023 Suzuki Ertiga Hybrid starts at just PHP 954,000 for the GA MT, PHP 1,068,000 for the GL MT, PHP 1,103,000 for the GL AT, and PHP 1,153,000 for the range-topping GLX MT.
Enjoying the fuel efficiency advantage of hybrids has never been this affordable, and you’ve got 7 seats to maximize it with. And the best part? Suzuki made sure Ertiga Hybrid customers will enjoy the benefits of hybrid ownership… including exemption from number coding.
Visit your nearest Suzuki dealership to find out more or log on to https://auto.suzuki.com.ph.