Suzuki Philippines, Inc. has officially launched the 2023 Ertiga Hybrid, which is its first hybrid offering in the local market. The said car was first previewed at the Philippine International Motor Show (PIMS) back in September 2022.
The 2023 Suzuki Ertiga Hybrid
Now, the 2023 Suzuki Ertiga Hybrid has been officially launched in the Philippines, which adds to the list of new seven-seater MPVs in the market. That said, what can Suzuki’s MPV offer? Here’s a rundown.
Exterior
One of the key features that separate the 2023 Suzuki Ertiga Hybrid from the regular Ertiga is a different-looking grille, which can be described as more elegant. Other than that, the Ertiga Hybrid retains the same front fascia as the non-hybrid version that’s equipped with automatic headlamps with a follow-me-home function, and front fog lamps.
A closer look at the Ertiga Hybrid's headlamps
From the side of the Ertiga Hybrid, one can also see that it carries the same silhouette as the non-hybrid Ertiga. The rear is also identical to the combustion-only model, though it does get a “Hybrid” emblem on its tailgate.
The Ertiga Hybrid from the rear
There are several color options available for the 2023 Suzuki Ertiga Hybrid. For its GA trims, it may sport Silky Silver Metallic, Snow-White Pearl, or Cool Black Pearl. The mid-spec GL and the top-spec GLX may then come in Metallic Magma Grey, Brave Khaki Pearl, and Burgundy Red Pearl.
Interior
The interior of the 2023 Suzuki Ertiga Hybrid is again largely identical to the non-hybrid model. At the front cabin is a well-arranged dashboard that is decorated with faux wood. Its flat-bottom multi-function steering wheel likewise gets faux wood trim, as do its interior door cards.
Also present is an analog gauge cluster and a color digital display sitting in between the gauges. It also comes with a push-to-start button, as well as knobs and physical buttons for its air-conditioning system.
Second-row seating
The second- and third-row are similar to the non-hybrid Ertiga. Up to seven can occupy the Ertiga Hybrid, and each row also comes with cup holders. The second row then provides a charging port, and a center armrest.
Tech & Safety
The new Ertiga Hybrid gets several safety features that one would expect from a modern MPV. Specifically, it comes with dual front airbags, anti-lock braking with electronic brake-force distribution, hill-hold control, and electronic stability control.
The Suzuki Ertiga Hybrid is also equipped with Cruise Control, which makes it at par with its segment rivals such as the Mitsubishi Xpander, Hyundai Stargazer, and Honda BR-V.
A peek inside the Ertiga Hybrid's front cabin
It also uses the same Suzuki Tect structure and the Heartect platform for effective impact absorption during collisions.
Providing entertainment to the Ertiga Hybrid is a 10-inch touchscreen headunit. The said headunit is equipped with Smartlink connectivity for seamless smartphone linking, Apple Carplay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and USB connectivity.
Engine & Performance
Under the hood of the 2023 Suzuki Ertiga Hybrid is a 1.5-liter gasoline inline-4 engine that’s paired with an Integrated Starter Generator (ISG). The aforementioned part then charges up the car’s battery and electric motor. With that setup, the Ertiga Hybrid can make a combined output of 103 horsepower and 138 Nm of torque.
Sending power to its front wheels is a five-speed manual gearbox or a four-speed automatic transmission, depending on the trim.
The new Suzuki Ertiga Hybrid also gets an Engine Auto Stop Start System. As its name suggests, it automatically shuts down the engine when it senses that the vehicle is idling.
The Ertiga Hybrid's 1.5-liter inline-4 gasoline engine
According to the Automobile Association of the Philippines (AAP), the Suzuki Ertiga Hybrid can return 12.54 km/l in city driving. Suzuki says that’s 7.6 percent better than the regular non-hybrid Ertiga version.
Since the Ertiga comes with a hybrid powertrain, Suzuki PH said that it qualifies for the Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act (EVIDA) law. This means that the 2023 Suzuki Ertiga Hybrid is exempted from number coding, among others.
Price
There are four available Suzuki Ertiga Hybrid trims for the Philippine market. The entry-level Ertiga Hybrid GA MT is priced at Php 954,000, while the GL MT retails at Php 1,068,000. The mid-spec GL AT can be had for Php 1,103,000, while the top-spec GLX AT has a price tag of Php 1,153,000.
The Ertiga Hybrid is Suzuki PH's first-ever hybrid model
With a starting price of Php 954,000, the Suzuki Ertiga Hybrid is currently the most affordable hybrid vehicle in the Philippines so far.
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