Suzuki Motor Corporation has launched new versions of the Solio and Solio Bandit compact cars equipped with its newly-developed hybrid system in Japan today.

The Japanese carmaker says the hybrid versions of the Solio and Solio Bandit, which are equipped with Suzuki’s hybrid system, are the most fuel-efficient models in the compact height wagon class in Japan at 32km per litre.

The newly-developed hybrid system adopts Suzuki’s parallel hybrid system, which combines a Motor Generator Unit (MGU) to an Auto Gear Shift (AGS). MGU is a compact driving motor that instantly boasts a big amount of energy, while AGS is a lightweight, compact, and efficient transmission. Together, they enable smooth acceleration by supplementing with MGU’s driving force while changing shifts.

The system offers two driving modes of ‘Normal mode’ and ‘Eco mode’ which allows the driver to select between brisk driving in start and acceleration, and driving with priority on fuel efficiency by increasing the frequency of EV driving. Plus, all variants qualify for eco-car tax breaks in Japan.