First new Suzuki Vitara rolls off the line in Hungary
Suzuki has started production of the latest Vitara at its Esztergom plant, with plans to build 70,000 units in the first year for global markets.
Suzuki has begun series production of the new-generation Vitara at its Esztergom plant in Hungary, marking a major step for the company’s European operations. The first completed vehicle was driven off the assembly line by Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, with Suzuki Motor Corporation chairman Osamu Suzuki present at the ceremony.
The Esztergom facility, already responsible for the SX4 S-Cross and Swift, is now the sole production site for the latest Vitara. Suzuki plans to build 70,000 units in the first year alone, relying on a network of 74 Hungarian suppliers. The company has confirmed that the new Vitara will be exported to more than 70 countries in its first year on sale, with a target of reaching 100 markets within three years.
Hungarian plant takes global lead
The decision to base production in Hungary reflects Suzuki’s strategy to use Esztergom as a European hub for its compact models. The plant’s output is destined not only for Europe but also for regions as diverse as Asia and Australia. The new Vitara’s global ambitions echo those of other compact SUVs built in Central and Eastern Europe, such as the Dacia Duster, which has seen strong export demand from its Romanian base.
Production at Esztergom is supported by a local supply chain, with the majority of components sourced from Hungarian firms. This focus on local content is expected to benefit the country’s automotive sector, supporting jobs both at the factory and among suppliers.
Technical details and market rollout
The new Vitara is built on a fresh platform and offers Suzuki’s ALLGRIP four-wheel drive system as an option. The engine range includes a 1.6-litre petrol and a 1.6-litre diesel, each delivering 120 horsepower. The petrol model is paired with a five-speed manual gearbox as standard, while a six-speed automatic is due to follow later in the year. The diesel variant comes with a six-speed manual transmission.
| Engine options | 1.6L petrol (120hp), 1.6L diesel (120hp) |
|---|---|
| Transmissions | 5-speed manual (petrol), 6-speed manual (diesel), 6-speed automatic (petrol, later availability) |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive, ALLGRIP four-wheel drive optional |
| Production site | Esztergom, Hungary |
Suzuki has already opened order books for the Vitara in Hungary and other European markets. The model is positioned to compete in the growing compact SUV segment, where rivals include the Renault Captur, Peugeot 2008 and Nissan Juke. Its global rollout is scheduled to continue throughout 2015, with further expansion planned as production ramps up.
