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Suzuki e Vitara Design: These models didn't make it!
Among them were noticeably more angular ones, which with black, additively attached plastic fenders almost had something Jeep Wrangler-like, but also more futuristic variants with large black, aerodynamically optimized “glasshouses” without B- or C-pillars. It was clear: It was time for something completely new, which should still build a bridge to the current Vitara.
What Sato, Hayashida, and their team managed quite well. Sato explained:
“When we began the project in 2020, the EV hype was at its peak. For us, this provided the opportunity for a paradigm shift and to bring something completely new, also for the benefit of the customers.”
Nevertheless, the new model should by no means look like all the other EVs: Behind the smooth shapes, Sato suspected a rather transient trend, and he was occasionally right. This is why he placed the greatest value on the “SUV-ness” of the e Vitara.
Additionally, it was important to build a bridge to the previous, more conservatively designed Suzuki lineup and to draw a certain timelessness into the metal of the model. Nevertheless, with the coupe line from the C-pillar, he also references the Vitara, but introduced completely new style elements, including the “Three-Spot” LEDs at the front and rear: Whereby the headlights and taillights now feature three striking light strips – we are curious to see if this will also come in other Suzukis.
In the end, however, Sato did not go too far out on a limb and created a muscular SUV that comes across strongly but also allows for modifications for partner Toyota at the front and rear. For Europe, it could have been a bit more provocative. That Sato and his team can do this is proven by the designs.
Inside, a big step was taken
The visually larger step was taken inside, where a large screen, like in BMW, displays all information crystal clear digitally. Below that, like in Mini, there is a large calm surface with four angular vents, skillfully running into the door panels: Here, a clear decision was made for the more striking and bolder variant, which also offers more "SUV-ness," which Sato values so much.
Nonetheless, the center console between the seats retained a rotary control for the driving modes along with buttons for the all-wheel-drive programs and driving modes. A bit of piano lacquer and the dual-tone of the higher variants contribute to a noticeable lift in terms of quality.
For the seats, the preference was also for angular-modern "SUV-ness" with pronounced side bolsters for good lateral support and upholstery made from multiple materials with decorative stitching. It appears impressively noble and complex at first glance for a Suzuki Vitara, which so far often came in the most inconspicuous black-black fabric or (artificial) leather. But as mentioned: The time was ripe for a paradigm shift.
What does that mean?
That designers bring all their designs along is rather rare. All the more refreshing are the ideas for the e Vitara presented by Chief Designer Kimitoshi Sato. Well, we would have gone for the hardcore SUV variant if we had truly provoked the paradigm shift – a bit back to the distinctly more hardcore off-roader original Vitara. Or perhaps chosen an even more futuristic version? It would all have been drawn, but: You shouldn't allow the gap to the current program to become too big either, which is why Sato ultimately decided on a somewhat more moderate design. The real paradigm shift potential it then truly has will be shown by time.
Translated automatically from German.
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Elektromobilität , Newsletter Elektromobilität , IAA Mobility , SUVs und Geländewagen , Hybrid , Antriebsarten, Kraftstoffe und Emissionen , Oberklasse- und Sportwagen , Carsharing , Autonomes Fahren (Straßenverkehr) , Ladeinfrastruktur , Verkehrspolitik , Formel E , Brennstoffzellen , Fahrzeug-Vernetzung und -Kommunikation , Fahrzeuge & Fuhrpark , Automotive-Messen & Veranstaltungen , Pkw, Kompakt- und Mittelklasse , Minis und Kleinwagen , E-Auto-Datenbank, E-Mobilität-/Automotive-Newsletter, E-Auto-Tests
