The Kizashi EcoCharge concept car is powered by a 2.0-litre four cylinder petrol engine, and uses a 15kW electric motor/generator to provide extra power during acceleration and reduce consumption, but without blunting the driving experience.

To boost fuel economy further, Suzuki has fitted technology including regenerative braking, a start/stop setup, fuel cut-off during deceleration and low rolling resistance tyres. Inside, the concept uses environmentally friendly materials that require 80% less emissions than in the production car.

American Suzuki Motor Corporation’s director of automotive marketing and product planning, Steve Younan, commented: 'Our basic concept was to attain substantial gains in fuel economy without the traditional sacrifices in drivability required with today’s mid-size hybrid sedans.

'The proof of our concept is that the Kizashi EcoCharge has the capability to deliver a 25% fuel economy gain in real-world driving through an electric charge to the powertrain system while still retaining the production Kizashi’s dynamic handling and braking advantages that make it a standout category performer.'