Suzuki has announced its intention to create a cutting-edge direct-injection turbocharged (DITC) engine as part of its strategic initiative dubbed ‘Technology Strategy 2026: Looking 10 Years Ahead.’ This new engine is primarily aimed at emerging markets, including India. Recently, the company disclosed details of a prototype 1.2-litre 3-cylinder turbo-petrol engine, which is being designed with compatibility for various fuels, such as E100, compressed natural gas (CNG), and compressed biomethane gas (CBG).
While the company has yet to officially confirm its plans, there is a strong possibility that this engine will make its way to the Indian automotive market. The prototype engine boasts an impressive output of up to 126 horsepower and a torque of 230Nm, with a focus on achieving thermal fuel efficiency of around 40 percent.
Details on the New Engine Prototypes
The 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine, which is derived from Suzuki’s existing Z12E engine, is designed to enhance fuel efficiency and performance. According to reports from Japanese automotive publications, the goal is to reach a thermal fuel efficiency of up to 50 percent by the year 2035. This engine features advanced components, including a variable-geometry turbocharger and a water-cooled intercooler, optimizing its performance.
This engine is already familiar to some Suzuki vehicles in its naturally aspirated form, such as the Swift, Baleno, and Dzire. The turbocharged variant is expected to be integrated into sub-4m vehicles in India, pending confirmation from the manufacturer.
Series-Hybrid Powertrain Development
In addition to the turbo-petrol engine, Suzuki is also working on a series-hybrid powertrain utilizing the Z12E engine. In this innovative configuration, the engine serves to generate electricity, while an electric motor powers the wheels. This hybrid system incorporates two motors: one for electricity generation and another for propulsion.
The Z12E engine in this hybrid application is capable of producing up to 82 horsepower and 108Nm of torque, with the generator motor achieving an output of 83 horsepower and the drive motor delivering up to 88 horsepower. A compact 0.6kWh battery supports the hybrid setup. Future plans may involve combining this series-hybrid system with the new 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine to create a plug-in hybrid solution with a total output of approximately 177 horsepower.
Additional Engine Developments
Furthermore, Suzuki is expanding its engine lineup with a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine projected to produce around 160 horsepower and 280Nm of torque. Similar to the smaller 1.2-litre variant, this engine is also being developed for compatibility with E100, CNG, and CBG fuels.
Additionally, a smaller 0.66-litre 3-cylinder engine is under development, specifically aimed at kei cars. This engine will come in both naturally aspirated and turbocharged versions. It is important to note that all engines showcased are intended for transverse front-wheel-drive (FWD) layouts, with no immediate mention of powertrains for rear-wheel-drive (RWD) vehicles like the Jimny, although such developments are anticipated to be unveiled in the future.
