Suzuki Ertiga Hybrid: strengths and weaknesses

The Suzuki Ertiga Hybrid has been available for the local market for quite some time now. Regardless, it remains a good value proposition for would-be buyers. 

To put it into perspective, the aforementioned multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) has a relatively accessible price that ranges from P954,000-P1.178 million. 

With its asking price for its four different trims, the Ertiga Hybrid can be an attractive buy for people looking for a family-friendly seven-seater. It is, after all, far more affordable than locally available vans and mid-size sport utility vehicles. 

Additionally, the model likewise sits as one of the more affordable rides that are coding exempt - a huge boon for Metro Manila residents who are looking to get this model. 

Like all cars, however, the Suzuki Ertiga Hybrid does have its own set of strengths and weaknesses. So, what is the Suzuki-made MPV good at, and what are its cons? Let’s find out here. 

Pros

Efficient fuel-sipper

The Suzuki Ertiga Hybrid is touted by Suzuki Philippines Incorporated as a very fuel-efficient ride. According to the brand’s local arm, it is 13 percent more efficient in urban driving conditions compared to its discontinued non-hybrid counterpart. 

The aforementioned is achieved via its 12-volt hybrid system, which consists of a 0.12 kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery, electric motor, and automatic start-stop system. 

For the unaware, Suzuki’s automatic start-stop system shuts off the vehicle’s engine when coming to a standstill (like at stoplights). With a press of the accelerator, the system brings the engine back to life. 

While it is a certified fuel-sipper, the model’s 1.5-liter inline-4 K15B engine also develops a respectable amount of oomph. For reference, it can dish out up to 103 horsepower and 138 Newton-meters (Nm) of torque. 

It isn’t the most powerful MPV on the market right now, but its maximum output is more than enough for city roads and even highway driving. 

Moreover, many will appreciate the fact that the Ertiga Hybrid is still available with a manual transmission. Its top-spec GLX exclusively uses a four-speed automatic, but the entry-level version comes with a five-speed manual. 

Decent amount of creature comforts

The top-of-the-line Suzuki Ertiga GLX comes with a decent amount of creature comforts, considering its price. 

For starters, it has sturdy but soft fabric upholstery, a 60:40 second row and a 50:50 split third row for extra versatility, and a conservative amount of faux wood trim on its dashboard and interior door cards. 

With regard to onboard entertainment and navigation, the GLX variant has got the basics covered with its 10-inch infotainment touchscreen. The said display is linked to a four-piece speaker set, and it provides Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity, and several USB ports for device charging. 

Keeping everyone inside cool, meanwhile, is an automatic air-conditioning system with separate manual controls for its rear vents. Other notable interior features of the Suzuki Ertiga Hybrid include, but are not limited to, the following: 

• Leather steering wheel (GLX)
• Cruise control
• 12-volt accessory outlet
• Push-to-start button
• Keyless entry
• Center armrests
• LCD instrument display with analog gauges

Lastly, the Ertiga Hybrid boasts a default cargo space of 550 liters with the third row folded down. Stow away its second row seats, and it can provide a total of 803 liters of usable space. The aforementioned is good to have, especially for families with pets, and for people who want to utilize the model as a road trip chariot. 

Adequate safety

Despite lacking a suite of advanced driver-assist systems, the Suzuki Ertiga Hybrid still comes with a decent array of basic safety gear. 

To be specific, it has dual front airbags, anti-lock braking, ISOFIX child seat anchors, childproof rear door locks, stability control, electronic brake-force distribution, and hill-hold control. 

For easier parking, the Suzuki nameplate comes standard with two rear parking sensors and a reverse parking camera. Added security for the vehicle, meanwhile, is handled by a central door locking system, a security alarm, and an engine immobilizer. 

Elegantly styled exterior

When it comes to exterior styling, the Suzuki Ertiga Hybrid leans more towards elegance. It does have angular details for its lower front bumper and an eye-catching chrome-plated grille, but the rest of its body is well proportioned and quietly styled. 

Beyond its good looks, the model also has plenty of practical exterior features. The most notable among the aforementioned is a pair of sharp-looking halogen headlamps with automatic functionality. Towards the rear, it also has LED taillights equipped with light guides. 

Other notable exterior features of the Suzuki Ertiga Hybrid include: 

• 15-inch alloy wheels
• 185/65 tires
• Front fog lamps
• Power-folding side mirrors (GLX)
• Chrome door handles (GLX)

Cons

3rd row can be tight

The third row seats of the Suzuki Ertiga Hybrid can be stuffy for adult-sized occupants. Then again, many of its rivals, such as the Toyota Avanza and Mitsubishi Xpander, don’t fare much better in this regard. 

Plus, the third row seating of the Suzuki model is still comfortable for younger teens and smaller adults. Space in the rearmost row is likewise tolerable for most during short in-city runs. 

Suzuki Ertiga Hybrid: specifications

Model	Suzuki Ertiga Hybrid GLX
Exterior
Dimensions (L x W x H, in mm)	4,395x1,735x1,690
Wheelbase (mm)	2,740
Ground clearance (mm)	180
Wheel size	15-inches
Lighting system	Halogen
Interior
Material	Fabric
Amenities	Automatic air-conditioning Four-piece speaker set Leather steering wheel  Cruise control 12-volt accessory outlet Push-to-start button Keyless entry Center armrests 60:40 split-folding second row 50:50 split-folding third row USB ports 12-volt accessory outlet
Infotainment system	10-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Seating capacity	Seven
Powertrain
Engine	1.5-liter K15B inline-4
Fuel type	Gasoline
Transmission	Four-speed automatic
Horsepower	103
Torque	138 Nm
Hybrid system	12-volt hybrid system
Technology
Safety	Dual front airbags Anti-lock braking Electronic brake force distribution ISOFIX Stability control Hill-hold control Rear parking sensors Reverse camera
Price	P1.178 million

Final thoughts

Overall, the Suzuki Ertiga Hybrid is a good buy for people looking for a reasonably priced hybrid family car. It isn’t too bare nor is it too fancy, but it has the right stuff to keep its occupants comfortable and provide a fuel-efficient drive in or out of the city. 

For people who like what they see in the Ertiga Hybrid, do take the time to take it out for a test drive. Doing so will acquaint you better with the said model, and thus will make for a more informed purchase in the end. 

Also read:

4 rides for fun family nights

Suzuki Ertiga: Enticing alternatives

Cabin check: What’s inside the Suzuki Ertiga Hybrid

Connect with us through our various social media pages:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ZigWheelsPhilippines

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zigwheelsph/

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@zigwheels

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@ZigWheelsPhilippines/