There's a video on Youtube describing how the Suzuki SHVS system works. https://youtu.be/2SswlsyuXb4
Seems like a simple, clever idea. I'll definitely be looking out for the real mpgs on this one when it's been around for a while.
What a great video, explains the system really well. I see they use the same system on the diesel engines in India, its a shame they don't do that here, as the diesel would already be way more efficient. It works identically to the system on my Honda.
I've only read one review of the Baleno hybrid, they pretty much said what I expected, that with careful driving, you might see 60 MPG, but they are never as good on fuel as you expect them to be, especially considering its a mild hybrid.
The benefit of a mild hybrid is that it adds little weight, cost and takes up little space, so can easily be fitted to other cars too. Suzuki are adding the same system to the new ignis too, quite like it's funky shape.
So I was looking at the stats for the hybrid Baleno V's the standard 1 litre turbo, and it doesn't look good. The hybrid has an engine 20% larger but it's down on power by 20%, and torque is a staggering 30% lower, meaning the 0-60 time is slower too by about 10%. Emissions are also higher on the hybrid by 20% meaning 1 years road tax is the same as 5 years worth on the non hybrid. Fuel figures are similar, slightly higher on the hybrid, but in the real world they are probably closer.
So you're better off all round with the little 1.0 litre turbo, which is a shame because I really like the idea of a low cost mild hybrid.
Linear Mode
