At the Philippine International Motor Show (PIMS) press con last August 30, Suzuki Philippines general manager for automobile, Mr. Norihide Takei gave a hint that they will be launching a hybrid model at the show as “their answer to high fuel prices.”

Although the Suzuki hybrid vehicle still remains unnamed, in their latest pre-PIMS release, they did confirm that that they’ll be displaying “a special model that will showcase the brand’s latest technology.”

However, based on the teaser (see below), it does look to be the Ertiga Hybrid, specifically the non-Suzuki Sport GX model. This can be surmised by the turbine-style alloy wheels which are unique to this variant.

Now, if Suzuki Philippines brings in the same spec as Indonesia, expect the Ertiga Hybrid to have features such as automatic projector headlights with guide me lighting and power folding side view mirrors with turn signal repeaters. This is on top of the aforementioned 185/65R15 wheels and new grille.

Inside, it stands to get an all-black interior with charcoal black gloss accents and a revised meter cluster with a full-color multi-info display too. Convenience features could include a smart keyless entry with push-button start/stop, an 8-inch infotainment system, and cruise control.

Regardless of creature comfort features, it will get Suzuki’s Smart Hybrid system. This mild hybrid system mates the K15B engine with an integrated starter generator (ISG) and a 6-Ah 12-volt lithium-ion battery. This helps bump up the outputs of the 7-seater MPV from 100 horsepower to 104.7 horsepower (at 6,000 rpm), while torque is up to 138 Nm at 4,400 from 130 Nm. An idle start/stop is also standard. For the ASEAN region, it comes with either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic.

Plopping in a hybrid powerplant into the Ertiga means a fuel economy figure that could breach the 20 km/L mark (based on Suzuki’s own tests).

Aside from this “special model,” Suzuki Philippines will also be displaying the all-new Celerio, Dzire, XL7, S-Presso SE, and Jimny. These models will also be available for test drives at the event.

In addition, during the four-day deal, Suzuki Philippines is extending even more savings for the Celerio, Dzire, and Ertiga. Would-be buyers can save P 58,000 (Celerio), P 70,000 (Dzire), or P 10,000 (Ertiga) when completing their purchase from September 15 to 30, 2022, and P 48,000 (Celerio), P 65,000 (Dzire), or P 5,000 (Ertiga) when completing their purchase from October 1 to 31, 2022. This is on top of existing promos.

“Suzuki is happy with the recovery of the automobile industry despite the numerous challenges posed by the pandemic,” shared Mr. Norihide Takei. “We look forward to partaking in this initiative by CAMPI that will be beneficial for the automotive industry, and continue to contribute to the next generation of mobility, where mobility meets humanity.”

Branded merchandise items will be made available exclusively at the event, as well as a slew of hosted and self-facilitated games guests can enjoy, including the Suzuki Wheel of Fortune and Suzuki Buzz Wire Challenge. Kids can join in the fun as Suzuki Safety Scout area will be made available for the future road warriors.

In addition, special guests and personalities are set to make appearances during Suzuki’s scheduled 30-minute shows as well, happening 12 NN on September 15, and 4 PM on September 17 and 18.