Suzuki GB is culling four major models as part of plans to ditch combustion models and embrace EVs.
The Japanese brand is killing off the Swift Sport, Jimny LCV, Ignis and hybrid Swace estate from early 2025 – “or sooner if dealer stock depletes” – leaving the hybrid Swift, Vitara, S-Cross and Across PHEV on sale.
Suzuki said streamlining its model range would support the arrival of its first fully electric car, the eVX, in the second half of 2025, followed by further EV models through to 2030.
Culling models will also enable the brand and its dealer network to fully comply with EU and UK legislation – such as the ZEV mandate, which became law at the start of 20245 and demands 22% of new vehicles sold this year by brands must be zero emission. Brands failing to achieve ZEV mandate sales targets face swingeing fines.
Dale Wyatt, Suzuki UK’s managing director, said: ‘‘The departure of these models will make room for EV and enable us to compete during a period where our sales ratio of hybrid versus EV products will drive our business. We’re exiting the ICE era with a focus on SUVs and new Swift, then starting in the second half of 2025 we’ll begin a period of EV growth.”
Suzuki unveiled its eVX concept at the start of 2023, said to combine the company’s “strong 4×4 DNA with the advanced features of the latest BEVs”.
It also seeks to “carry forward the brand’s 4×4 legacy into the new electric era to deliver a true Suzuki SUV driving experience”.
The eVX features a chunky design and is expected to deliver 310 miles of range thanks to a 60kWh battery.
