Suzuki’s All-New 2017 Ignis Small Crossover Arrives in Europe

It comes with an optional mild hybrid system

On sale in Japan since late 2015, the all-new Suzuki Ignis has finally debuted in Europe at the Paris Motor Show.

Sporting a quirky appearance inspired by the iM-4 Concept unveiled at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show, the third-generation Suzuki Ignis is a B-segment crossover based on a lightweight and rigid new platform.

The Japanese automaker says the Ignis features a newly-designed suspension that delivers "excellent handling," while the 89 hp 1.2-liter Dualjet three-cylinder gasoline engine equipped with a dual injection system is said to provide "powerful performance and excellent fuel economy."

While no official specs have been released yet for Europe, the carmaker said the Ignis is also available with the Smart Hybrid Vehicle by Suzuki (SHVS) compact mild hybrid system. The technology uses an Integrated Starter Generator (ISG) consisting of an integrated power generation and electric motor, as well as a lithium-ion battery pack. When equipped with the SHVS system, the Ignis returns even better fuel economy, with CO2 emissions significantly under 100 g/km.

Sales of the new Ignis in European markets are scheduled to begin in January 2017, with pricing to be announced closer to launch. Initially, Suzuki will sell front-wheel drive versions, but an all-wheel drive Ignis will be available at a later date as well.