Suzuki Admits To Incorrect Fuel Economy Testing Methods In Japan

Suzuki is the latest carmaker to come clean and admit its chosen methods for calculating official fuel economy readings have, in some instances, been flawed.

Instead of using the Japanese industry method, Suzuki has instead ‘estimated’ fuel economy readings based on previously-gathered data using similar parts configurations. 

The carmaker also conducted some tests designed for ‘real world’ outdoor environments “on top of a hill, close to the sea”, potentially benefitting from prevailing wind conditions in a test designed to measure wind resistance.

The announcement comes during a month that has already seen a similar declaration from Mitsubishi, and an accusation from Korean authorities that Nissan has used an emissions ‘defeat device’ in its diesel-powered Qashqai.

Mitsubishi’s President and Vice President have resigned over the issue, and Nissan announced that it would take up a 34 percent stake in Mitsubishi soon after the deliberately-inaccurate fuel figures were exposed.

Following the Mitsubishi saga, Japan’s transport ministry began cross-checks against other carmakers in the local market, and Suzuki is the next to fall foul.

Fuel