Suzuki Cuts Back UK Dealer Network: What’s Going On?

Buying a car is about more than just picking the right model. It’s also about knowing there’s a dealer nearby who can help when you need it. That’s why news of Suzuki cutting its UK dealer network has got people talking. Why are they closing sites? What does it mean for customers? In this article, you’ll find out what’s really happening, why Suzuki made this choice in 2025, and how it might affect you if you’re thinking of buying or servicing a Suzuki.

Suzuki Reduces UK Dealer Network

In early 2025, Suzuki GB announced a cut of its UK dealer network. The number dropped from 129 dealers to around 100, meaning about 30 outlets closed or changed status. This move is real and recent—it was shared with dealers in January and became clear by 10 February 2025 .

Why Did Suzuki Make This Change?

The main reason? The new ZEV mandate. From 2024, automakers in the UK must meet strict zero-emission vehicle targets. Suzuki felt the impact. They only just avoided fines thanks to transitional measures. With its first EV—the eVitara—due in 2025, the firm decided to reshape its dealer network .

When and How It Happened

• January 2025: Affected dealers got direct calls from Suzuki GB boss David Kateley
• By 10 February 2025: Public confirmation came via Car Dealer Magazine and national media
• The aim is to go from 129 to around 100 outlets.
• Many of the cut sites can stay on as Authorised Repairers rather than selling new cars

What It Means for Dealers

About 30 dealers are affected. Most can keep running service workshops. For example, Browning in Melton Mowbray—Suzuki partners for 21 years—lost its franchise on 30 June 2025, but remains an Authorised Repairer. The message from Suzuki is clear: fewer sales sites, but a focus on servicing and repair alongside EV readiness.

Why Suzuki Thinks This Is Smart

Suzuki says the trims won’t leave customers stranded:

• They mapped coverage so most customers travel no more than ten minutes extra to get to a dealer
• They promise retained access to seven-year/100,000-mile warranties, free with full servicing since mid-2023
• They aim to grow their vehicle base (parc) by 25%.
• The changes support the upcoming eVitara EV launch, and align with ZEV rules

Wider Context in the Market

The network change sits alongside its earlier decision to drop Ignis, Swace, and Jimny from its EU line-up in 2025, to meet stricter CO₂ limits. It’s part of a broader shift towards EVs—a required drift in today’s car market.

Impact on Customers

• Buying: For someone thinking about buying a Suzuki, it could mean a drive farther than they are used to if their closest dealer no longer sells new cars. Suzuki says they’ve carefully planned this extra step to ensure that most people won’t experience too much hardship.

• Service and Repairs: When it comes to servicing and repairs, most of those dealers will stay open to help with maintenance, MOTs, and any problems that come up. That means current Suzuki owners will still have a local person they can trust.

• Warranty: Warranties will continue as before, with strong cover designed to give peace of mind and keep people coming back for regular servicing.They has been offering a seven-year warranty if you service with them, and there’s no plan to change that.

• EV Readiness: And with the eVitara, their first electric car, on the way this year, the network changes are also about making sure dealers are ready for new technology. They’ll be trained and equipped to support electric vehicles properly, so drivers can feel confident buying one in the future.

Real Dealer Experience

Browning in Melton Mowbray is a good case. Closed for new-car sales on 30 June 2025, but keeping its service centre. They even switched to selling KGM (formerly SsangYong) cars instead. They say this shift wasn’t about their performance—they had strong sales and good reviews—but about Suzuki’s changed product range and dealer structure.

What Suzuki Plans Next

• Network now ~100 dealers, focused on retail plus service.
• Ongoing mapping to make sure dealers remain accessible.
• Support for repair centres through warranty and maintenance programmes.
• Preparation for EV rollout, including training and equipment alignment.

Some details, like final timings, are still pending. Suzuki says they’re working to reduce disruption.

What This Means for You

• If you’re buying soon, check your nearest Suzuki dealer. Some sites no longer sell new cars.
• For servicing, look for locations labelled “Authorised Repairer.”
• Expect the eVitara later in 2025—visit dealers to check EV-ready options.
• Remember: dealers you visit for servicing may still handle warranties and parts even if they don’t sell new cars.

Final Thoughts

Suzuki trimming down its UK dealer network is very much about preparing for what happens next. They are looking to comply with new regulations for cleaner cars and to plan for the selling of electric models. Even if you have fewer showrooms available to you, most locations will still help with servicing and repairs, so drivers won’t necessarily be left in the lurch. It’s a major change, but Suzuki says it will continue to look after its customers and prepare for the future of motoring in the UK.