Suzuki hybrids based on VW technology?

Better off with GM technology?

Not long ago it seemed as if Suzuki hybrids based upon GM hybrid technology was a done deal. Of course, with GM shedding brands and executives like a furry dog heading into summer, technology partnerships might have been too much of a distraction for both companies. Likewise, GM still needs to prove that any of its hybrid technology can be cost-effectively viable.

Hence, it's not much of surprise that Suzuki would look for other technology partnerships. Nonetheless, it does seem a bit of a surprise that Suzuki and VW would hook up on hybrid vehicles considering that VW has yet to sell a hybrid in the US. Hence VW's technology might just be as ineffective as was GM's BAS hybrid powertrain.

Of course, perhaps Suzuki needed any partner. Or, even better, perhaps Suzuki received an inside look at VW's hybrid technology and liked what they saw. Hopefully, it's the later, as a little more serious hybrid competition is certainly in order.