Paul Tan's Automotive News» Suzuki at Paul Tan’s Automotive News

Suzuki SX4 hatch updated with more power

Paul Tan — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 03:28:36 +0000

The Suzuki SX4 Sport Crossover (that’s the hatchback version, not the sedan) has been updated with new specifications in Malaysia. On the outside, the model adds auto-retractable side mirrors with intergrated signal indicators, new design 16 inch alloys, and a new front grille.

Inside, there is a new meter cluster with an integrated MID, a new design for the automatic climate control panel, armrests for the front seats, illuminated audio controls, and an additional dash center speaker and aux-in socket for the audio system.

The most significant change has been to the engine – output is now 110 horsepower at 5,600rpm and 150Nm of torque at 3,800rpm instead of the previous power figures of 101hp at 5,600rpm and 140Nm at 4,000rpm. This means the engine will now perform much better – it now makes more torque, but at a lower RPM at the same time. The 4-speed automatic remains. Other technical changes include a revised front suspension for better comfort, and the addition of ventilated discs for the rear brakes.

The car goes for RM89,998 in Peninsular Malaysia, OTR with insurance. From what I heard, the CBU Japan odd-looking “tall” sedan version can be had at some Suzuki dealerships for much cheaper under RM80k after a RM12k discount.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 22 Nov 09 06:59:46 +0800.

2010 Suzuki Kizashi: Power figures released

Harvinder Sidhu — Sun, 18 Oct 2009 06:57:17 +0000

Suzuki recently unveiled the 2010 Kizashi but along with the announcement, the auto maker did not reveal power figures of the new Japanese sedan. The Kizashi is initially offered with a 2.4 liter 4-cylinder powerplant that can output 185HP at 6,500 revs and 230Nm of torque at 4,000 revs. The engine has 16 valves and features a DOHC setup. The power unit is mated to a 6 speed manual transmission that allows the vehicle to hit 100 km/h in 7.5 seconds.

Fuel consumption is rated at 23 miles to the gallon (US, city) or 31 miles to the gallon (US, highway). Furthermore, apart from a front wheel drive setup there is also an all wheel drive configuration. Buyers can also opt for a CVT tranny, but horsepower will be reduced to 178HP at 6,000 revs.

Suzuki will add a range-toppng V6 petrol unit later on and as reported earlier, a hybrid variant will join the line-up as well. Both these additions will be offered in about two years. In the US, the 2010 Kizashi is offered with four trim levels including S, SE, GTS and SLS.

The basic S model comes with features like sport front seats, automatic dual-zone climate control, up to eight airbags, push button start and more. Pricing for this model starts from US$20,000. The range topping SLS model fitted with the all wheel drive system costs US$24,000.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 22 Nov 09 06:59:46 +0800.

Suzuki Swift Concept gets Plug-In Hybrid System

Paul Tan — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 08:18:48 +0000

The plug-in hybrid system in this modified Suzuki Swift features a combustion engine that’s much smaller than its production Swift counterparts – only 658cc producing 54 horsepower (40kW). But what it does have is a 74 horsepower (55kW) electric motor to run the car at all times, powered by lithium ion batteries. The combustion engine kicks in to recharge the batteries, making this a series hybrid system much like Volt. One full charge can take the car about 20km.

Because there is no need for a conventional geared transmission, the lithium ion batteries are positioned in the center console where a car’s transmission would typically be, between the two front seats. The seats are quite funky though – with a design reminding me of expensive ergo office chairs.

Look after the jump for larger photos of the Suzuki

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 22 Nov 09 06:59:46 +0800.

Tokyo gets its own Suzuki Alto Concept

Paul Tan — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 06:41:59 +0000

Suzuki has so very quickly updated the Alto for the Tokyo Motorshow 2009, though it’s still calling it a “concept” for now.. This update may seem like it’s coming a little too soon considering the Alto has just been launched in India and various other countries.

It could be either one of two things. One is it’s a facelifted model being previewed a little too prematurely. I have a feeling that it could also be not really a new car but a more premium and refined take on the existing car for the Japanese market, and potentially any other market that can accept paying a little more for a compact car.

See in Japan, people don’t exactly buy a really small car because they can’t afford anything better. Alot of the times its more of a choice. It’s a very Japanese thing really. These customers don’t mind paying a little more for extra design finesse and refinement.

Or even a little more uniqueness, which is why you have the Mira and you also have the Mira Custom. Or Move and Move Custom, etc. Even the Alto shares a nameplate in Japan with a different looking vehicle – the Suzuki Alto Lapin. So this is it, an updated Alto for the Tokyo show, and it does look sharper than the original Alto. Look after the jump for 5 shots of the Alto Concept.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 22 Nov 09 06:59:46 +0800.

2010 Suzuki Kizashi officially revealed! Hybrid model coming soon

Harvinder Sidhu — Fri, 31 Jul 2009 06:03:06 +0000

Suzuki has officially revealed the 2010 Kizashi mid-sized sedan, that is offered in both front wheel drive and all wheel drive forms. Based on the Kizashi Concept that was previewed two years ago, the mid-size sedan is treated to a large prominent grille up front with curvaceous design lines under the projector beam headlights, which is also evident at the rear end. There are two exhaust tailpipes as well, on each side. The Kizashi also sits on the ground with 18-inch alloy wheels, treated to a multi-spoke design.

Inside, you can choose between cloth or premium leather seats. With the latter, you will get three-stage heating and memory function. Both material options are finished with French seams, hard cover rears and low fatigue foam. More features include, key-less entry (with start/stop button), iPod connectivity, Bluetooth (optional) and a 425-watt Rockford Fosgate audio system (optional). There is also a three-spoke steering wheel, in front of a two-gauge (with chrome outline and light blue lighting) instrument panel, with an LCD display.

Now to what is under the hood. Before I can continue, I must say that Suzuki has neglected to mention official performance figures of the Kizashi, along with the engine output numbers as well. We do know that it is powered by a 2.4-liter DOHC inline 4-cylinder, mated to either a 6 speed manual or a CVT transmission. With the CVT, buyers will get steering wheel mounted paddle shifters.

The engine includes an aluminum block and cylinder heads, aluminum pistons with low tensile force rings, dropped-forged connecting rods, rotating on a forged steel crankshaft and a balancer shaft that delivers improved engine balance and reduced noise, vibration and harshness (NVH).

Suspension wise, the Kizashi with a rigid steel unibody features MacPherson struts in the reinforced front suspension, while the rear is treated to a multi-link setup, which is constructed with embedded aluminum to improve handling. As mentioned earlier, the Kizashi is also offered with an all wheel drive system, which is Suzuki’s first for its sedan segment. The system’s torque split remains dependent on several factors, including wheel slippage and throttle input.

Safety wise, it comes with eight airbags, ESP, ABS with EBD and a tire pressure monitoring system. You can also go home with Suzuki’s synergetic vehicle dynamic control, which allows you to have more fun with the car, with minimal intrusion from the ESP. The auto maker also revealed that it is developing a hybrid variant of the Kizashi, and that it will be added into the line-up in the future. Expect the new sedan from Suzuki to hit US showrooms by December. Continue reading to view an image gallery and to watch a half-hour long video.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 22 Nov 09 06:59:46 +0800.

Volkswagen to take up 10% stake in Suzuki?

Paul Tan — Sun, 28 Jun 2009 14:27:46 +0000

A German magazine reported last week that Volkswagen is looking to take up a 10% stake in Japanese carmaker Suzuki. Taking up stake and collaborating with the Japanese company in various areas such as network and product collaboration will allow Volkswagen to enter the Indian market with more success than they currently are having. Suzuki currently dominates the Indian market through the local JV, Maruti Suzuki.

The small little cars that Suzuki and Daihatsu are so good at building at seems to be a secret art that no one else can master. Most of the time the cars come out too cramped as there is not very efficient use of space, or they end up being too costly to manufacturer and price at the appropriate price tag that it needs to have.

Suzuki could benefit from Volkswagen’s technologies such as various fuel-saving tech such as FSI, TSI, TDI diesel and even hybrid tech, and Volkswagen could definitely use Suzuki’s access in India, and perhaps its K-car platforms in case it wants to do something smaller than the NSF (the Up! concepts – future Lupo).

Either way, investors seem to think positively of such a deal, as Suzuki shares went up by nearly 7.7% before settling down up 5.5% at 2,195 Japanese Yen.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 22 Nov 09 06:59:46 +0800.

Suzuki SX4 and SX4 Sedan facelift revealed in China

Harvinder Sidhu — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 02:23:26 +0000

Changan-Suzuki, Suzuki’s auto arm in China has launched the facelift version of the Suzuki SX4 and SX4 Sedan for the Chinese market.

The facelift consists of a redesigned bumper, revised grille, concave surfaces above the fog light, as well as a new skid-plate at the rear of the hatchback. The facelift also matches the 2010 SX4 for the European market.

The Suzuki SX4 facelift range also comes with a slightly updated interior and a revised GPS navigation system. Please continue reading to view an image gallery.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 22 Nov 09 06:59:46 +0800.

Suzuki Swift now with keyless entry and start

Paul Tan — Sun, 08 Mar 2009 10:29:34 +0000

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Suzuki Malaysia Automobile Sdn Bhd have updated their Suzuki Swift for the 2009 model year. The locally assembled Swift retails at RM 73,788.00 OTR with insurance and comes in 5 colours, including Bayside Blue, Silver Grey, Supreme Red and Tranquility Black as well as one new colour – Superior White.

Suzuki has basically added 2 features – a keyless entry and start system, and auto-retractable side mirrors with integrated signal indicators. The keyless entry system allows you to open the door via pressing a button on the door handle, and the keyless engine start is not unlike Latio’s where you turn an ignition knob, not as sexy as a start button but it works. Its primarily to allow you to access and start the car without having to take out the key fob from your pocket or in the case of ladies, your handbag.

The rest of the car should remain largely the same – a 1.5 liter DOHC engine with variable valve timing producing 101hp at 6,000rpm and 133Nm of torque at 4,000rpm mated to a 4-speed automatic transmission, good cute but perhaps now dated looks and one of the best handling and fun factor in its class.

Look after the jump for more shots of the Swift.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 22 Nov 09 06:59:46 +0800.

The Suzuki Kizashi sedan is not dead (yet?)

Paul Tan — Wed, 07 Jan 2009 09:55:13 +0000

The media blitz about Suzuki canceling its D-segment Suzuki Kizashi earlier this week was fueled by Japanese business daily The Nikkei. Now it appears that the show will go on, and the Kizashi will go on as scheduled to make a production debut at the 2009 New York Auto Show in April 2009! As for when a showroom debut will happen, that will happen at the show in April.

The Nikkei’s sources must have made a mistake somewhere, but they’re not to blame for believing it’s true! During this time where the market is shifting towards smaller and fuel efficient cars, Suzuki who is an expert at building small cars wants to come up with a large car in a segment that it has absolutely no presence in. Will anyone take a chance to buy something so distant and unfamiliar in that range of cars in this time and day?

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 22 Nov 09 06:59:46 +0800.

Suzuki cancels the Suzuki Kizashi D-segment sedan

Paul Tan — Tue, 06 Jan 2009 01:09:16 +0000

We have another recession casualty here, this time it’s a Suzuki. Joining the ranks of cancelled projects by car manufacturers such as the recent NSX is the upcoming (not anymore, for now!) Suzuki Kizashi D-segment sedan. Despite what seems to be a properly running full production model running around all sorts of terrain and even the Nurburgring, the large sedan has been canned. Suzuki is an expert at doing small cars, and small cars seem to work best in current times. More and more car manufacturers are moving down the segments, so why would Suzuki move up? Good for them for making this decision!

UPDATE: Suzuki executives have denied the report and said the Suzuki Kizashi is not dead, and will be making a production appearance as scheduled at the New York auto show in April.

Source

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 22 Nov 09 06:59:46 +0800.

GM sells its Suzuki stake to stay float

Paul Tan — Mon, 17 Nov 2008 08:18:52 +0000

As it doesn’t look like GM is going to receive any federal bailout anytime soon, it’s raising some cash to stay afloat by selling all of its stake in Suzuki – 3% or 16.413 million shares to be exact – back to the Japanese company, who will buy back its own shares at 1,363 yen (RM50.40) a share.

GM originally owned 20% of Suzuki but sold 17% back in 2006 in a transaction worth USD$1.96 billion. With this recent sale, it ceases to have any stake in the Japanese automaker. It also sold its 20% stake in Subaru in 2005, and part of that ex-GM stake is now owned by Toyota.

What’s next to go? Saab? Perhaps Buick will go to a Chinese company, since the brand is rather popular in China, doing even better there than in the US. There was also a story about it trying to flog off Hummer to Tata or Mahindra.

Perhaps at the end of the day Proton can buy GM for US$1

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 22 Nov 09 06:59:46 +0800.

Suzuki GB offers “new” Clarion touch screen GPS

Paul Tan — Thu, 13 Nov 2008 09:50:14 +0000

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Suzuki Great Britain is now offering a Clarion 2-DIN multimedia system priced at £1,499 including VAT, excluding installation, which can be specified for the Suzuki Grand Vitara, the Suzuki Swift, Suzuki Swift Sport and the Suzuki SX4. Suzuki claims the unit has been developed specifically for Suzuki, but the wordings on the top right indicate its the MAX973HD, a model that been out since last year!

Features of the new 2-DIN head unit include GPS navigation, CD, DVD and iPod connectivity, and a touch-screen 7 inch LCD interface to select songs, playlists and artists. There is also a CD-ripping function that can store MP3 recorded from CDs onto its on-board 40GB hard drive.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 22 Nov 09 06:59:46 +0800.

Suzuki Splash “GT” styling kit

Paul Tan — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 02:36:54 +0000

Click the thumbnails above for larger images.

This special GT styling package is currently offered to owners of the Suzuki Splash who want to spice up their little hatchback in certain market regions.

At this price segment these bits of kit probably do not offer any aerodynamic benefits at all, but almost every car looks better with a little diffuser-ish design on the rear bumper to help it look less fat, especially with increasingly strict crash test regulations bloating those bumpers up.

Any European entrepreneur want to develop a similiar styling bodykit for the Suzuki Splash-derived Opel Agila?

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 22 Nov 09 06:59:46 +0800.

Suzuki Grand Vitara facelift launched in Malaysia

Paul Tan — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 16:54:16 +0000

One advantage of selling a CBU car in Malaysia is that you can react to model offering changes very quickly. That is why Suzuki Malaysia Automobile Sdn Bhd is able to bring in the facelifted Suzuki Grand Vitara so quickly shortly after it was unveiled internationally in early October 2008.

There are very minor changes on the front end – so minor that at first glance you may think that it looks exactly the same. I had trouble spotting the difference, to be honest. The bumper design is almost the same except the foglamps have been moved further away from the center to help the Grand Vitara look wider. There is also a new design for the front grille. From the side view, you will now notice a new 17 inch wheel design.

On the interior, there is a new multi-information display integrated into the meter cluster. The climate control area also has been redesigned. The steering wheel audio switches are now illuminated. Finally, the seat upholstery now has a new design for the fabric.

The facelifted Vitara adds a 2.4 liter engine to the model line-up but in Malaysia we continue to get a 2.0 liter model producing 138hp at 5,900rpm and 183Nm of torque at 4,300rpm, mated to a 4-speed auto with ratios from 2.862 to 0.688. One technical change is the addition of disc brakes at the rear.

The Suzuki Grand Vitara minor facelift retails for RM117,125.90 OTR with insurance (RM113,900 without insurance).

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 22 Nov 09 06:59:46 +0800.

New Suzuki Alto: performance and dimensions

Paul Tan — Sun, 05 Oct 2008 16:31:40 +0000

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Here are more details on the Suzuki Alto, which we sort of had a look at earlier in teaser form and also as a rebadged Nissan Pixo. The new compact A-segment hatchback is targeted to sell about 60,000 units a year in Europe following its Spring 2009 launch. It’s also set to be one of the few top sellers in India under the Maruti name.

The new Suzuki Alto measures 3,500mm long, 1,600mm wide and 1,470mm tall with a wheelbase of 2,360mm. This means it is shorter, wider but lower than the Viva which has dimensions of 3,575mm x 1,475mm x 1,530mm. As for boot size, the Alto can take 129 liters with the rear bench in place and utilised.

The Alto uses a MacPherson strut suspension design at the front and what Suzuki calls a proprietary 3-link torsion beam at the rear, whatever that means. Under the hood is the inline-3 1.0 liter K10B unit that made its debut with the Suzuki Splash. It produces 68 PS at 6,000rpm and 90Nm of torque at 4,800rpm.

With a kerb weight of 910kg for the high-spec automatic version, it has a power to weight ratio of 13.38kg per PS, compared to the Viva 1.0 Premium automatic’s 13.33kg per PS. This means its performance should be very similiar to the Viva 1.0 Premium, though the VIva’s peak torque of 90Nm kicks in earlier at 3,600rpm.

Look after the jump for 3 more shots of the Alto.

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Video: Suzuki Alto

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 22 Nov 09 06:59:46 +0800.

Facelifted Suzuki Grand Vitara now with 2.4L engine

Paul Tan — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 16:58:33 +0000

Suzuki has unveiled a facelifted version of the Suzuki Grand Vitara flagship, now available with a new larger 2.4 liter engine.

The new 2.4 liter engine produces 166 PS in the three door body and 169 PS in the five door body. The engine features a balance shaft, a three-stage variable air intake and a tumble control valve for the intake to for the best possible fuel-air mixture.

Other changes include new ventilated discs for the rear brakes, extra shock-absorbing elements at the front to reduce pedestrian injury risk, and ESP is now fitted as standard. Apparently the interior and exterior styling has received minor updates as well but they are probably so minor that other than the new wheels, I can’t seem to detect any.

Look after the jump for a photo of the 3-door body and the new interior.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 22 Nov 09 06:59:46 +0800.

Suzuki Wagon-R launched in Japan

Paul Tan — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 05:36:07 +0000

Suzuki has just unveiled its all-new Suzuki Wagon-R in Japan. It’s essentially the same car and model line-up as the Mazda AZ-Wagon, offering two different styling options, two engines and three choices of gearbox.

The base model is the Suzuki Wagon-R while the more upmarket racy version is the Suzuki Wagon-R Stingray, mirroring Mazda’s AZ-Wagon and AZ-Wagon Custom Style cars. You have the choice of either a 54 PS normally aspirated 660cc engine or a turbocharged 660cc offering 64 PS.

Look after the jump for more photos of the new Suzuki.

PHOTO GALLERY: Suzuki Wagon-R
Click thumbnails to view high resolution photo

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 22 Nov 09 06:59:46 +0800.

New Suzuki Alto images released, details to come

Paul Tan — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 16:20:49 +0000

Suzuki has unveiled a preview of the next generation Suzuki Alto, which will make its debut at the 2008 Paris Motor Show. The new Alto was shown to us in concept form as the Suzuki A-Star Concept. The new Alto will replace the best-selling Maruti Alto currently sold in Japan, but the Maruti 800 based on an even older Alto will still soldier on, repositioned with less specs and a lower price to compete with the Tata Nano.

As India is the Alto’s biggest market, the world production center for the new Suzuki Alto will be situated in Maruti Suzuki’s Manesar plant. If Suzuki Malaysia deems the Alto suitable for Malaysian consumption (Hyundai seems to think so with the recently introduced Indian-sourced i10), the Alto we get will most likely come from India.

The recent news of a free trade agreement being discussed between ASEAN and India will be good news for the i10 and the Alto if it is introduced here as it would mean less taxes for Indian imports.

One more photo of the new Suzuki Alto available after the jump, with more details to be revealed as we approach the 2008 Paris show.

Related Posts:
Next generation Suzuki Alto spotted in India

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 22 Nov 09 06:59:46 +0800.

Suzuki SX4 Sedan 1.6 Auto launched in Malaysia

Paul Tan — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 23:51:03 +0000

After teasing us with the Suzuki SX4 Sedan’s impending introduction with various units placed in shopping malls around the country as part of a contest, Suzuki Malaysia Automobile Sdn Bhd has unveiled the Suzuki SX4 Sedan yesterday. The car is a CBU unit fully imported from Japan and two variants are available, both with a 1.6 liter engine and automatic transmission.

The Nissan Latio is no longer alone in its game as a 1.6 liter B-segment sedan. The Suzuki SX4 sedan is powered by the same 1.6 liter VVT engine as its hatchback sibling. It puts out a rather sedate 102 PS at 5,600rpm and 140Nm of torque at 4,000rpm through the front wheels via a 4-speed automatic.

It’s a rather tall sedan with higher than usual ground clearance. The front fascia is actually inspired by a Japanese Kabuki mask, which explains its aggressive look. The addition of a boot onto the hatchback’s body results in a very impressive 515 liter boot space, probably the largest in its class. Also first in class is the inclusion of ISOFIX mounting points for child seats on the rear passenger bench and automatic climate control.

The base model comes standard with a bodykit. It features a standard CD player with MP3 capabilities, mated to an 8-speaker audio system with steering wheel audio controls. In addition to the standard ISOFIX points, there are dual SRS airbags in the front.Wheels are 15 inchers with 195/65R15 tyres and brakes are discs at the front and drums at the rear.

The standard version costs RM88,888 OTR without insurance (RM91,437 with insurance). The premium version will cost you RM96,567.50 OTR inclusive of insurance and adds window tinting, a trunk lid spoiler (the rest of the aerokit is standard), door visors and leather seats. Three colours are available – Silky Silver, Azure Grey and Black Pearl.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 22 Nov 09 06:59:46 +0800.

Nice Ze-O is based on the Changhe Ideal II

Paul Tan — Sun, 20 Jul 2008 16:31:25 +0000

Only one photo of the Nice Ze-O has been released by electric car manufacturer Nice (No Internal Combustion Engine) so far, but we are able to have a preview of how it will look like by looking at the car it is based on, the Changhe Ideal II, a joint venture development between China’s Jiang Xi Changhe Automobile and Suzuki, Changhe’s partner in China.

The Changhe Ideal was designed by design firm Bertone and launched in 2003, and it received its current looks when it got a minor facelift in 2006. It comes with a choice of a 45hp 1.0, a 64hp 1.1, a 78hp 1.3 or a 90hp 1.4 liter engine but naturally these will be missing in the Nice engineered version as the Ze-O will be powered by an electric motor. The Ideal is sold outside China under various badges like Suzuki and Effa.

More photos of the car found after the jump, including of the interior.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 22 Nov 09 06:59:46 +0800.

Suzuki SX4-FCV approved for public testing

Paul Tan — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 19:22:19 +0000

The Suzuki SX4-FCV is a fuel cell vehicle with a 80kW fuel cell powering a 68kW (91 horsepower) electric motor with a high voltage capacitor that supports brake energy regeneration. Hydrogen is stored on board a 70MPa high pressure hydrogen tank. The SX4-FCV can go up to an estimated range of 250km, and has a top speed of 150km/h.

It has just gotten approval from the Japanese government to test it on public roads, so this makes it Suzuki’s fourth fuel cell test vehicle, with the other three being the Suzuki MR Wagon-FCV, the Suzuki Wagon R-FCV and another updated Suzuki MR Wagon-FCV.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 22 Nov 09 06:59:46 +0800.

Suzuki SX4 Sedan spotted in Malaysia!

Paul Tan — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 17:55:05 +0000

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A Suzuki SX4 Sedan was spotted in The Curve, Mutiara Damansara displayed as a prize for some contest organised by Metrojaya and Citibank, if I’m not mistaken. Did not particularly pay much attention to the poster near the car as I was too busy snapping photos of the car itself.

The SX4 Sedan is another of those new-fangled small B-segment hatches turned into sedans. This particular execution looks either like a hit or miss depending on what angle you look at. At some angles you start to praise what a good job Suzuki has done tacking on a boot to a hatch, and a very tall one at that, but at some angles the rear starts to look too narrow and tall and that is made worse with the window profile that slopes upwards at a noticeably steep degree of angle.

Expect the Suzuki SX4 Sedan to be making a debut in our local market very very soon since it is already offered as a contest prize. Word is that it will be offered as a CKD.

Look after the jump for more photos with different angles of the Suzuki SX4 Sedan.

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This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 22 Nov 09 06:59:46 +0800.

Next generation Suzuki Alto(?) spotted in India

Paul Tan — Tue, 24 Jun 2008 17:19:12 +0000

Remember that aggressive metallic dark silver concept car from Suzuki that we saw at the 2008 Geneva Motor Show this year? It was called the Suzuki A-Star Concept and word is that it previews the next generation Suzuki Alto, an important car for the Indian market.

A forumer at Team-BHP found these photos on the Orkut social network, which depicts a production version of the A-Star Concept on Indian roads.

While the overall shape including headlamp outline and etc stays true to the concept, it has lost much of its aggressiveness, instead taking on a much more cutesy look typical of A-segment cars. The rear end design is also much more realistic than the concept version, which only featured thin Nike logo-shaped slits on each side.

View more spyshots after the jump.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 22 Nov 09 06:59:46 +0800.

Suzuki SX4 WRC Edition

Paul Tan — Fri, 06 Jun 2008 18:50:46 +0000

Suzuki has unveiled a special 500-unit run of the Suzuki SX4 for the German market called the Suzuki SX4 WRC Edition, nevermind that there’s nothing WRC about the special edition other than the stickers on the outside.

The Suzuki SX4 WRC Edition features a bodykit, rally-ish decal stickers, rally-ish 16 inch wheels wrapped with 205/60R16 tyres, and a mesh grille. On the inside you get carbon-lookalike trim, a leather shift knob, and keyless entry and start.

A follow-up post with details on the rear SX4 rally car is coming up, but for the moment view more photos of the Suzuki SX4 WRC Edition after the jump.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 22 Nov 09 06:59:46 +0800.

Maruti Suzuki Swift Dzire sedan unveiled in India

Paul Tan — Wed, 26 Mar 2008 21:06:43 +0000

The Maruti Suzuki Swift Dzire sedan has been unveiled in India, and comes with a choice of either a 1.3 liter SOHC petrol engine or a 1.3 liter Multijet DOHC common rail intercooled turbodiesel engine.

The petrol engine produces 87 bhp at 6,000rpm and 113Nm of torque at 4,500rpm, while the oil burner makes 75 horses and 190Nm of torque at 2,000rpm. Both petrol and diesel variants are available only with a 5-speed manual gearbox.

Dimension-wise the Swift Dzire sedan is longer than the Swift hatchback of course, but keeps the same wheelbase of 2390mm. The following table lists the differences between the two dimension-wise.

	Swift	Swift Dzire
Length	3695mm	4160mm
Height	1510mm	1530mm
Width	1690mm	1690mm
Wheelbase	2390mm	2390mm

Boot space varies between 440 liters and 464 liters depending on trim level. The larger boot space value is available on the Lxi, Ldi, Vxi and Vdi trims, probably because of the slimmer tyre profile (165/80R14 versus 185/70R14) which means the spare tyre does not take as much space in the boot.

Safety features include ABS brakes, EBD, and dual front SRS airbags, which Maruti Suzuki claims are safety features that are not usually seen in this segment. Not all trim levels have them though. Spec level is relatively high, with some variants getting automatic climate control.

More photos after the jump.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 22 Nov 09 06:59:46 +0800.

Suzuki Kizashi 3 Concept

Paul Tan — Fri, 21 Mar 2008 20:25:15 +0000

This is the third Kizashi Concept to come out of Suzuki’s stables, and it was displayed at the 2008 New York International Auto Show. While the previous two Kizashi Concepts had estate bodies, this version is a sedan. Dimensions are 4650mm long, 1900mm wide, 1450mm tall and it has a wheelbase of 2800mm.

A production version is in the works, but there are no final specs yet, though Suzuki hints at a 3.6 liter DOHC V6 putting out about 300 horses or so. The engine will have plated cylinders which save weight and space, a technique that pays homage to Suzuki’s motorcycle business. The engine will be mounted at the front, and will send power to all four wheels.

See more photos and watch an animated video of the Kizashi 3 after the jump.

Related Posts:
More about the Suzuki Concept Kizashi

VIDEO: Suzuki Kizashi 3 Concept

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 22 Nov 09 06:59:46 +0800.

Maruti Suzuki Swift DZiRE due end-March

Paul Tan — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 18:01:33 +0000

The Maruti Suzuki Swift DZiRE is set to hit India’s shores on the 29th of this month, and a teaser site is already up online. The car is essentially a Suzuki Switch hatchback with a boot tacked on. The site has a few preview images depicting a Swift DZiRE shrouded by shadows, or just parts of the car, but look after the jump and you will find some low resolution spyshots captured from a video.

According to Maruti Suzuki, the Swift DZiRE will feature class-leading equipment that have never been offered in an entry-level sedan in India, like an integrated head unit with steering wheel audio, automatic climate control, dual SRS airbags and ABS brakes.

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This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 22 Nov 09 06:59:46 +0800.

Suzuki takes up 40% stake in Suzuki Malaysia

Paul Tan — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 04:43:17 +0000

The latest principal to enter the Malaysian market with stakeholding is Suzuki Motor, which has just acquired 40% of Suzuki Malaysia Automobile, previously a DRB-Hicom company. Suzuki will pay RM 14 million for the 40% stake, and another 20% stake will be taken up by Japanese trading form Itochu, which will pay RM 7 million. The remaining 40% is held by DRB-Hicom.

“The proposed joint venture displays Suzuki’s strong commitment to strengthen its relationship with DRB-Hicom in the marketing, distribution and assembly of Suzuki vehicles in Malaysia and to widen its product range and models in Malaysia,” said DRB-Hicom in a statement.

The new JV will be complete by end Q1 2008, and will involve subscription of new ordinary shares of RM1.00 each in SMA. SMA will issue and allot a total of 21 million new ordinary shares of RM1.00 each in SMA, through an increase in issued and paid-up capital from RM14 million to RM35 million. DRB-Hicom is expected to realise an estimated gain of RM5.2 million from the Proposed Joint Venture based on SMAs audited financial statement for the financial year ended 31 March 2007.

This could mean faster time to market for new Suzuki products in Malaysia as well as perhaps better allocation of stock to reduce waiting times.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 22 Nov 09 06:59:46 +0800.

Suzuki Equator based on Nissan Frontier unveiled

Paul Tan — Sun, 10 Feb 2008 14:23:05 +0000

The new Suzuki Equator was unveiled at the 2008 Chicago Auto Show and as expected thanks to earlier leaked images and an already established relationship between Nissan and Suzuki, it is revealed that the Equator is essentially a badge-engineered Nissan Frontier, and is even built alongside the Frontier at Nissan’s Smyrna plant.

The Suzuki Equator is aimed at Suzuki bike and ATV lovers, who might want a truck with a matching badge for their vehicles. It will come in both Extended Cab and Crew Cab body styles, and power will go to either the two rear wheels or all four wheels via a selectable 4WD system.

There are no diesel powertrain options, instead you have a 2.5 liter DOHC inline-4 putting out 152 horsepower and 232Nm of torque, or a larger 4.0 liter DOHC V6 engine with 261 horsepower and 381Nm of torque. These are both Nissan engines and they are mated to a 5-speed auto for both engines, or a 5-speed manual for the inline-4 and a 6-speed for the V6.

More shots after the jump.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 22 Nov 09 06:59:46 +0800.

First image of Suzuki Equator pick-up truck released

Paul Tan — Sat, 02 Feb 2008 12:53:38 +0000

Click to enlarge

Suzuki has released an official front three quarter photo of the new Suzuki Equator pick-up truck, a badge reengineered version of the US market mid-sized second generation Nissan Frontier, built on the Nissan F-Alpha platform.

The F-Alpha ladder frame platform can be configured with either a fully independent suspension or with a rear solid axle, but as with the Frontier, the Suzuki Equator will go the solid axle way. Expect it to be powered by the same 265 horsepower 4.0 liter V6 in the Frontier.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 22 Nov 09 06:59:46 +0800.