Confirmed: Suzuki will bring hybrids to PH

As more and more automakers offer electrified models in their lineup, it seems Suzuki Philippines (SPH) is ready to introduce its hybrid powertrain in the country.

This comes after the newly-appointed SPH General Manager for Automobiles Norihide Takei confirmed that the automaker will be introducing its hybrid powertrains in an effort to improve and bring more eco-friendly models.

While Takei did not mention any specific models that will come with the hybrid system, we already know that it's called the Smart Hybrid Technology. It's actually a mild-hybrid setup that has an integrated starter generator (ISG) that is connected to a dual battery system. During braking and deceleration, the ISG collects kinetic energy and converts it to electric energy that is stored in high-capacity lithium-ion batteries. This aids in providing torque-assist under acceleration, as well as idle stop/start while the vehicle is stationary.

One of the earliest examples of Suzuki's mild-hybrid system being used was for a turbo-diesel version of the Ertiga. Coupled with a five-speed manual transmission, the MPV produced 89 PS and 200 Nm of torque. It was also able to achieve 22.6 km/l thanks to the mild-hybrid system.

Today, the mild-hybrid system is currently seeing use in the recently-launched XL6 Hybrid and Ertiga Hybrid models. But instead of having a turbo-diesel under the hood, the mild-hybrid system is now paired to a 1.5-liter K15C DualJet inline-four. It can then be paired to either a new 6-speed auto or a 5-speed manual gearbox.

With both mild-hybrid vehicles now available in India, Does this mean SPH will have to source its hybrid vehicles all the way from our Indian neighbor? Not exactly.

Last year, we reported that Suzuki Indonesia will build hybrid versions of the XL7 and the second generation Ertiga. The automaker has reportedly already drawn up plans to make the mild-hybrid versions of both vehicles. The electrified Ertiga is expected to be revealed later this year while the hybrid XL7 will supposedly debut in 2023.

Since SPH already sources both the regular Ertiga and XL7 from Indonesia, the upcoming electrified versions will likely be the initial hybrid models for the Philippines. But until Suzuki officially reveals it in Indonesia, all we can do for now is wait until both vehicles are unveiled to the public.