2022 Suzuki Ertiga Hybrid makes ASEAN debut
After making its world debut in India, Suzuki Indonesia reveals Ertiga Hybrid for ASEAN
Last month, Suzuki Philippines (SPH) officially announced that they will be bringing hybrid models to the Philippines. This was confirmed by SPH General Manager for Automobiles Norihide Takei who mentioned they will be introducing electrified powertrains in an effort to improve and bring eco-friendly models to the country.
At the time, Takei did not say what hybrid model will be revealed for the Philippines. However, we might already have an idea of what the automaker will be launching in the not-so-distant future. It could be this 2022 Suzuki Ertiga Hybrid that made its ASEAN market debut via Indonesia.
Just like the Ertiga Hybrid launched in India earlier this year, the electrified MPV comes with the brand's mild-hybrid system called Smart Hybrid Technology, an updated exterior, as well as more standard equipment than the non-hybrid version of the Ertiga.
The mild-hybrid Ertiga for Indonesia now comes with a 1.5-liter K15B engine that's helped along by an integrated starter generator (ISG) and a lithium-ion battery pack. This allows the MPV to have a total system output of 104.7 PS at 6000 rpm and 138 Nm of torque at 138 Nm.
While it only gains a minor boost in power and torque, the MPV does now come with the following fuel-saving features; automatic start/stop system while idling, regenerative braking that collects kinetic energy and converts it to electrical energy that's stored in lithium-ion batteries, as well as torque-assist that provides extra power under acceleration.
Surprisingly, the ASEAN-spec Ertiga Hybrid does not come with the new 6-speed automatic transmission. Instead, it carries over the tried-and-tested 4-speed automatic from the regular Ertiga models. For those who still prefer to row on their own, the Ertiga Hybrid can be coupled to a 5-speed manual gearbox.
Style-wise, the Ertiga Hybrid for Indonesia has the same exterior updates like the one launched in India last month. From the more stylish grille, new tailgate garnish, and restyled 15-inch alloy wheels, the 7-seater MPV gets a much-needed makeover. High-grade variants also benefit from automatic projector headlights, dual-tone alloy wheels, and auto-folding side mirrors with integrated LED turn signals.
Inside, the MPV gets an all-black interior finish that's accompanied by a new instrument panel and an updated multi-info display. In higher-grade models, the Ertiga Hybrid is fitted with carbon-fiber accents, red contrast stitching on the seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a smart keyfob.
When it comes to safety, the 2022 Ertiga Hybrid has the following; anti-lock brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution, dual front airbags, hill-start assist, electronic stability assist, as well as a reverse camera.
With the 2022 Suzuki Ertiga Hybrid now available in Indonesia, expect other markets in the ASEAN region to get the electrified MPV. More importantly, we might see the all-new 7-seater people carrier make its way to the Philippines very soon. Heck, we won't be surprised if Suzuki will debut it at this year's Philippine International Motor Show (PIMS). Fingers crossed that we get Suzuki PH's first hybrid this year.
