Suzuki’s Vitara has been a mainstay of the Japanese company’s range since 1988, with the fourth generation launching in 2016. Recent refreshes and a move to hybrid power will ensure that it will continue on sale for many years to come.

However, with more buyers now wanting a fully electric car, Suzuki has released its first offering in this rapidly growing sector, the e VITARA. This exciting new model has been available to order since July last year. Built in India, the e VITARA doesn’t qualify for the government’s new grant, but never fear, as with Suzuki’s ‘Granted’ scheme, all models come with £3,750 off the list price.

The look says 'Vitara', but make no mistake, this sedan is an all-new model built on a newly developed platform specifically for BEVs. The car rides high, with black body cladding, emphasising its all-terrain credentials. Ultra models benefit from an optional dual-tone roof finish and incorporate a glass roof panel with a retractable sunshade.

Inside, the cabin is functional but modern, with durable materials and a neatly arranged dashboard. There are some physical buttons for key functions, though, as is the modern way, many functions require some prodding of the central touchscreen. The latter is a little laggy in its responses.

The grey interior trim is a little sombre, though on Ultra models, if ‘Land Breeze Green’ or ‘Splendid Silver’ paint finishes are selected, then a rather lovely tan fabric/synthetic leather interior colour theme is used. Luckily my car was silver with the snazzy interior.

The eVITARA features an all-new EV powertrain and charging and power supply system, along with a heat pump battery thermal management system for optimal battery range. Buyers can choose from two battery options: a 49kWh pack with 144bhp and a larger 61kWh version producing 174bhp. As is the Suzuki way, an ALLGRIP-e all-wheel drive system is an option, the twin motor boosting the power to 239bhp.

My test car boasted the larger battery variant (plus ALLGRIP), and performance was brisk enough. A 0-62mph time of 8.7 seconds is reasonably competitive, and driving one up, the e VITARA bowls along quite nicely. The ride is supple, a pleasant surprise, though when pushing on there is some body roll through the corners.

The range is, of course, dependent on the battery size, with the 49kWh entry-level model good for up to 213 miles (WLTP). Choose the single motor 61 kWh version, and this rises to 264 miles. The official figure for my test car was 245 miles. On an especially cold morning, a 200-mile run to Newcastle and back, I was disappointed by the real-world range. 160 miles was nearer the mark on the mixed test route, and that was with the heater off and just the heated seat for warmth.

Public charging on a rapid DC charger was slower than I would have expected, so a wait of 45 minutes will be needed to charge from 10 to 80%. I topped up just enough to get me home, where charging costs are modest. Suzuki has partnered with Ohme and e VITARA buyers will get a free charger fitted, subject to survey – a good offer. Charging at 7kW, a 10 to 100% charge will take nine hours to replenish the 64kWh battery.

Both Motion and Ultra models are well equipped. Expect to find adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, a reversing camera and keyless entry and start as standard, whilst Ultra variants add a panoramic roof, wireless phone charging, an Infinity audio system with subwoofer, a 360-degree camera, a 10-way power adjustable driver’s seat and half synthetic leather seat material.

Suzuki Connect integration allows remote checks on charging status, range, and climate preconditioning via your smartphone. The vehicle also includes the very latest driver-assist technology, with autonomous emergency braking and high-beam assist as standard.

Electric seats are fitted in the Ultra version, so getting comfortable behind the wheel is easy. There’s space in the back for two, three at a push. The rear seats are on rails, making it easy to optimise rear legroom or boot space depending on need. At its maximum, luggage space with the rear seats up is 310 litres, this shrinking to 244 litres when the extra legroom is needed.

We have owned a Vitara for many years, and it has been a paragon of reliability, and I would expect e VITARA to be the same. I’m impressed by the up to 10 years/100,000 miles vehicle and battery warranty, provided you stay within the dealer network for servicing.

On-the-road prices start at £26,249 after Suzuki’s granted saving is applied and low-rate competitive finance is offered (APR 2.9%). A deposit of £5,599 down on a 61kWh Motion 2WD model and expect to pay £299 for 49 months. Contract hire rates from £299/month on offer too.

I would choose the Ultra trim, adding £2,800 to the list price, and might be tempted by 4WD, an additional £2,000.

There is much to like about the new e VITARA. I like its rugged SUV styling, the practicality and good level of standard equipment. Marks lost for the poor winter range and slow charging, both of which may be improved in the future with over-the-air updates.