Paul Tan's Automotive News » Suzuki

Maruti Suzuki Ertiga launched in India – it’s a Swift MPV

Danny Tan — Fri, 20 Apr 2012 08:10:17 +0000

Last week saw the launch of the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga in India. First shown at the Delhi Auto Expo earlier this year, Ertiga is the production version of the Concept rIII show two years earlier. Sitting on a extended Swift platform, the Ertiga is a seven-seat MPV with a 2-3-2 seating configuration, pretty much like a Toyota Avanza.

But it’s a bigger car than the Toyota MPV. The Ertiga measures 4,265 mm long, and has a 2,740 mm wheelbase. Both figures shade the Avanza’s 4,150 mm and 2,655 mm. The second row of seats can slide back and forth, and there are 135 litres of cargo room with all seats in place, rising to 735 litres with two rows of seats folded down.

The Ertiga also debuts a new K-Series, 1,373 cc VVT engine. This K14B unit makes 95 PS and 130 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm. Indians also get a diesel option, the proven 1,248cc MultiJet engine with 90 PS and 200 Nm of torque at 1,750 rpm. Both are mated to a five-speed manual gearbox. The oil burner is claimed to be good for 20.77 km/l, over 4 km/l better than the petrol unit.

There are six trim levels in India, from the 5.89 lakh LXi (RM34,726) to 8.54 lakhs (RM50,353) for the range topping ZDi. India’s auto market leader has collected 10,000 bookings for the Ertiga in five days following the launch, so it’s a big hit. The majority of those orders were for the diesel engine, despite it being more expensive variant.

Exports to Indonesia will start next month. Is Malaysia in the plans somewhere down the line? Click here for a live gallery of the Ertiga from the Delhi Auto Expo.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 13:11:31 +0000.

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Suzuki Kizashi is finally here – two trims, from RM147,888

Danny Tan — Fri, 23 Mar 2012 05:11:53 +0000

Suzuki Malaysia Automobile (SMA) has finally given the Suzuki Kizashi an official launch – the D-segment sedan was unveiled at the roof of Lot 10 this morning. Only one drivetrain is available here – a 2.4L four-cylinder engine with 176 hp (131 kW) and 230 Nm at 4,000 rpm.

This J24B unit is paired to a CVT gearbox with six ratios, controlled by paddle shifters. 0-100 km/h is done in 8.8 seconds and top speed is 205 km/h. We’re pleasantly surprised to see performance figures on the brochure, something not very common these days. Fitting, since the Kizashi is positioned as a sports entrant, and looks the part.

Fully imported from Japan, the Kizashi is new ground for Suzuki, both in price and type of car. Known as a small car expert, the Kizashi (translates roughly to “something great is coming” in Japanese) sees Suzuki trying its luck in a segment dominated by Japanese heavyweights and a new breed of Euro sedans coming in from VW, Peugeot and Ford. Let’s not forget that the Koreans are very much in the game, too.

However, the Kizashi is rather unique, because it’s smaller bodied compared to a Camry or Accord. The car’s length and width of 4,650 mm and 1,820 mm is only 110 mm and 65 mm more than that of a Honda Civic, and the Suzuki’s 2,700 mm wheelbase is identical to the C-segment Honda’s. So it’s clearly not for those who want the most space for money, but the proportions lend the Kizashi a compact and muscular appearance, like a proper sports sedan.

Two trim levels are sold by SMA, the SDLX and Sport. The well equipped SDLX is priced at RM147,888 and it comes with six airbags, traction control, ESP, leather seats (from Japan, not locally fitted), electric seats (10-way for driver with three memory settings), auto cruise, keyless entry and push start, ABS, EBD, BA and Hill Assist.

There’s more. Stereo with steering controls and USB, front/rear parking sensors, auto folding side mirrors, auto dimming rear view mirror, auto leveling HID headlamps with washer and 17-inch alloys are all standard on the cheaper Kizashi. Quite a list.

The Sport, which looks more menacing, is priced at RM158,188 OTR with insurance. As seen on the white car here, it adds on 18-inch rims in a sportier design, sports suspension that lowers ride height by 10 mm, a different front bumper and chrome highlights around the car. Inside, Sport trim gives you a sport leather gear knob and silver stitching on the seats and gearshift/handbrake boot.

Here’s an interesting fact. The headlights of the Kizashi are from Malaysia! A supplier from Penang supplies the headlights to Suzuki Japan, which fits it on every Kizashi it makes.

Actually, SMA worked hard to get prices down to the current level, which is very decent for a fully-loaded 2.4L CBU import from Japan. On a different note, SMA bosses let slip that the new Swift will be assembled at DRB-Hicom’s Pekan plant, but it won’t start so soon, perhaps a year from now.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 13:11:31 +0000.

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Buying books bags avid reader a Suzuki Grand Vitara

Anthony Lim — Tue, 13 Mar 2012 04:09:47 +0000

Now, who says that reading doesn’t pay? Lee Hor San will tell you it does, and in a big way. Lee emerged as the grand prize winner in the MPH Read & Reap Contest, and walked away with a Suzuki Grand Vitara.

The contest, organised by MPH Bookstores in conjunction with its 105th anniversary, kicked off in March last year, and customers who bought a minimum of RM50 worth of books – either at MPH Bookstores outlets or through its web store – became eligible to enter it. Participants were asked to count the number of books in a given image, come out with a creative book title and a short synopsis.

Each month, one main prize winner was selected to enter the final by a panel of judges from MPH Bookstores, Suzuki Malaysia, Samsung Malaysia and an editor from a local daily. The entries of all ten finalists were eventually posted on mphonline.com and open to public voting, with points from the panel of judges determining the eventual winner.

Lee’s winning entry was titled The Lord of the Fly – An Autobiography, which was about a zipper tycoon revealing his private life and stories of living in the fastener lane. Aside from the Grand Vitara, which came courtesy of Suzuki Malaysia, Lee also took home a Samsung Wave S8500 and an i-River Cover Story. Not a bad haul in his books, eh?

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 13:11:31 +0000.

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Suzuki Ertiga MPV to be introduced in Indonesia

Anthony Lim — Wed, 07 Mar 2012 02:07:00 +0000

Suzuki says it plans to introduce the Ertiga compact MPV in Indonesia in the near future, with the aim of taking its annual sales volume to 100,000 units. Last year, the Japanese automaker sold 91,000 vehicles in the country.

The Ertiga, which debuted at the Delhi Auto Expo in January in its Maruti Suzuki form, will thus be sold in both Indian and Indonesian markets, with vehicles for the latter market being produced in Indonesia, quite likely from CKD kits prepared in India.

The 4.2 metre-long seven-seater will be offered in two engine variant guises, a 1.4 litre gasoline and a 1.3 litre diesel, with pricing to be announced at a later point, presumably at launch. Suzuki is aiming to make its large seating capacity, coupled with its compact size and frugally-sized engine, the main selling points for the vehicle.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 13:11:31 +0000.

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New Maruti Swift Dzire spied in India, it’s a ‘Swift Sedan’

Danny Tan — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 08:01:32 +0000

The previous gen Suzuki Swift, which is still current in Malaysia, spawned a sedan in India called Swift Dzire. The looks were odd, but the booted Swift proved popular. Here’s the new one, based on the latest Swift. Caught on camera by MegaPower Services, it confirms that the Dzire name has been continued, and that a launch is imminent.

Viewed from the rear, the “Swift Sedan” looks decent, but the funny proportions are unavoidable, since Suzuki wanted it to be below four metres in length to enjoy the Indian government’s excise benefits for small cars. As a result, the stubby tailed new Dzire is shorter than the old one, which is 4,160 mm long.

In front, the Dzire is distinguished from the hatch by a new grille and fog lamp housings. The cabin is carried over from the new Swift, which dumped the old minimalist dash for a more conventional layout. Being a sedan, the Dzire is trimmed with “luxury” in mind, as opposed to sporty – a two-tone theme and wood trim can be found.

Engine options are said to include a 1.2-litre K Series petrol and a 1.3-litre Multijet diesel from Fiat, engines that already see service in Maruti’s range.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 13:11:31 +0000.

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Maruti Suzuki Ertiga MPV debuts at Delhi Auto Expo 2012

Paul Tan — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 07:00:14 +0000

This is the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga MPV, a production version of the Maruti Suzuki Concept rIII that made its debut in Delhi two years ago. I’m quite curious about the name – rIII becomes Ertiga, sounds like Bahasa Malaysia to me!

The Ertiga sits on a Suzuki SX4 platform stretched to have a long 2,740mm wheelbase (overall length: 4265mm, overall width: 1695mm, overall height: 1685mm). That’s actually a pretty long wheelbase, when you compare it to other vehicles in its class.

The 7-seater compact MPV is powered by either a new K-14 model 1.4 liter VVT four cylinder petrol engine producing 94 horsepower at 6,000rpm and 130Nm at 4,000rpm, or a 1.3 liter Fiat four cylinder turbodiesel engine producing 88 horsepower at 4,000rpm and 200Nm of torque from 1,750rpm.

The interior offers features such as a tilt adjustable electric power steering, twin AC, audio system (USB Compatible, 4+2 speakers), steering mounted audio controls, central door locking and keyless entry, multi information display, power windows with auto down and electrically adjustable mirror.

“The Ertiga brings space, style and compactness to Utility vehicles for customers in India. As India gears to be amongst the largest global automobile markets by 2020, with the foray into UV segment, Maruti Suzuki will strengthen its leadership position in the industry. With Ertiga the Maruti Suzuki will step into the Utility Vehicle segments and effectively create a new Compact MPV segment in India,” said CEO of Maruti Suzuki Mr. Shinzo Nakanishi.

We hear that India will be producing CKD kits to be exported around the world, so this is definitely not an India-only product. Will Suzuki Malaysia offer the Ertiga here in Malaysia?

Live photos by MotorBeam.com

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 13:11:31 +0000.

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Maruti Suzuki XA Alpha Compact SUV Concept

Paul Tan — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 06:53:02 +0000

Compact SUVs seem to be the theme at the Delhi Auto Expo 2012 in India. Not content with letting the Ford EcoSport stand alone, Maruti Suzuki unveiled this concept compact SUV called the Maruti Suzuki XA Alpha at the Auto Expo 2012 today.

The Maruti Suzuki XA Alpha Concept took about 10 months of development time, and 5 Maruti engineers were involved in the project. Maruti Suzuki does not currently have an SUV in the Indian market. SUVs consist of about 14% of the total market in India, and a smaller model like the XA Alpha would probably do better in India compared to larger models like the Grand Vitara.

The production Maruti Suzuki XA Alpha will come with a choice of both petrol and diesel engines. The petrol engine is expected to be a 1.3 liter, while details on the diesel engine remains unknown.

“India is set to become one of the top automobile markets of the world. This may become evident as early as the next Delhi Auto Expo. Maruti Suzuki will lead India’s automobile growth and evolution by strengthening its compact car portfolio, entering new segments and creating new product categories across fuel options. The Concept XA is designed for a market of customers with a young urban lifestyle. This Concept showcases the unified R&D efforts of Suzuki and Maruti which will be a big asset for us in India in the future,” said Managing Director and CEO of Maruti Suzuki, Mr. Shinzo Nakanishi.

Live photos thanks to Motorbeam and Maruti Suzuki.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 13:11:31 +0000.

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Suzuki on course to triple engine production in Indonesia

Anthony Lim — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 04:27:42 +0000

Suzuki is on schedule to triple its engine build output to 150,000 units a year in Indonesia – the company’s new engine manufacturing plant, which will take the number to that eventual figure, remains on course, according to a report.

The Nikkei adds that the facility, which will occupy a 1.3 million sq. metre plot on the outskirts of Jakarta, will feature comprehensive engine manufacturing operations by 2015, including the ability to cast and forge engine parts.

The company, which assembles the Swift and SX4 in Indonesia, is working to lift its annual output capacity there from 120,000 vehicles to at least 150,000 next spring. Its engine production capacity in Indonesia however still stands at 50,000 units a year.

The report adds that in addition to using its Indonesian engines and parts locally, Suzuki will consider exporting some output to factories in other ASEAN member countries. At the same time, the company plans to import engines and parts from Thailand to Indonesia, creating a division of labour and cutting costs by consolidating the production of individual engine types.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 13:11:31 +0000.

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Suzuki Kizashi Sport: the new big cheese for Suzy globally

Anthony Lim — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 06:14:59 +0000

There’s a new global flagship model for Suzuki, and it’s the Kizashi Sport. The Sport model features a host of external and internal modifications, which include a muscular front fascia (with chrome accents) and lower grille. It also gets body side-sill extensions, lower body side mouldings with chrome accents, custom lightweight 18-inch alloy wheels and a unique sport steering wheel with contrasting stitching for its leather seats, gear shift surround and parking brake boot.

It’s powered by the 2.4 litre J24B mill, which offers 178 PS at 6,000 rpm and 230 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm for numbers, mated to a CVT gearbox with manual shift. There’s also an intelligent all-wheel-drive system (i-AWD), which offers switchable 2/4WD; the car can be operated in two-wheel-drive mode, where drive is predominantly to the front wheels with minimum torque transmitted to the rear wheels – operation is via a switch on the dashboard and can be altered when the car is in motion.

Kit for the car includes leather upholstery, sports seats, electric glass sunroof, cruise control, an eight-speaker audio system with Bluetooth and USB port. Safety equipment includes seven airbags, ESP, ABS and EBD.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 13:11:31 +0000.

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Tokyo 2011: Live photos of the Suzuki Regina concept

Harvinder Sidhu — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 04:07:05 +0000

We are reporting live from the Land of the Rising Sun and this is the Suzuki Regina concept which could point to a new global compact car from the Japanese brand. Little has been revealed about the car but we do know that it is powered by an 800cc petrol engine that is also turbocharged.

The small engine is paired to a continuously variable transmission or CVT and there is brake energy regeneration and an engine start/stop function. It weighs only 730 kg and has a drag coefficient at least 10% lower than that of current models in Suzuki’s line-up.

This allows the Regina to deliver a fuel economy reading of 3.76 liters per 100 km which is rather impressive. The concept which measures 3,500 mm long and 1,600 mm wide was produced using a new manufacturing process that helps reduce the number of parts required.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 13:11:31 +0000.

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Suzuki wants to divorce VW, taking the dispute to court

Danny Tan — Fri, 25 Nov 2011 07:29:06 +0000

We saw it coming, and the sour relationship between Suzuki and VW is now going to the courts, with the Japanese bride demanding that her estranged German husband sign the divorce papers.

“Suzuki is today commencing arbitration proceedings in London with the ICC, International Court of Arbitration, in order to compel Volkswagen AG to dispose of its Suzuki shares to Suzuki or Suzuki’s designated third party,” the company said in a statement released yesterday.

“The arbitration proceedings follow Suzuki’s termination of its alliance, and Volkswagen AG’s lack of response to Suzuki’s requests for the disposition of its shares,” it added.

The Japanese small car expert declared last week that it had ended its alliance with VW, and demanded that the German giant sell back its stake in Suzuki by November 2012. Suzuki also warned that it would seek arbitration if VW refused to sell the 112.21 million shares, or 19.89%, back to Suzuki or an appointed third party.

Suzuki’s executive VP Yasuhito Harayama was previously quoted as saying: “It was made very clear when we tied up with Volkswagen that we did not want to become consolidated, and that we would remain independent. We feel we need to return to the starting point, including over the ownership ratio. The understanding that we are independent companies, and equal partners, is the absolute prerequisite in pursuing any specific cooperation.”

Besides that, Suzuki has complained that VW failed to provide promised access to green technologies, while VW is sore about the supply of diesel engines to Suzuki from Italian rival Fiat.

VW denies any wrongdoing in the marriage and dismissed Suzuki’s claims that it had violated terms of partnership. “Volkswagen categorically rejects these accusations. We are very disappointed (by Suzuki’s decision to seek arbitration). There is no legal reason to take such action,” a company spokesman told AFP.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 13:11:31 +0000.

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Suzuki to build new assembly plant in Vietnam

Anthony Lim — Thu, 17 Nov 2011 04:46:12 +0000

Suzuki says it is going to build a new assembly plant in Vietnam to meet the country’s growing need for cars, a report says. The company has been building motorcycles and cars in Vietnam since 1996, and its existing plant in the country turned out 3,000 vehicles in 2010.

The new factory, which will cost the company about one billion yen, will be built in a different location and is scheduled to commence operation in 2013. Suzuki says the new plant will have an initial annual production of 5,000 vehicles, though there are plans to increase capacity later.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 13:11:31 +0000.

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Suzuki Swift EV Hybrid set for Tokyo: market entry in 2013

Anthony Lim — Fri, 11 Nov 2011 12:30:15 +0000

Yet another Tokyo debutant from Suzuki, and though the Swift EV Hybrid is also coming through in concept form, it’s downright conventional when you consider the likes of its Regina and Q-concept siblings. It’s also set to make its way into production form sometime in 2013.

On battery power alone, the car offers a 30 km operating range, though an engine-driven generator, as the company tags it, extends travel distance – by how much, Suzuki hasn’t said. No specific details are mentioned, but it shouldn’t stray too far from the Swift Plug-In Concept that was shown at the 2009 edition of the show.

That one featured a 658cc mill offering 54 hp (or 40 kW), working in tandem with a 74 hp (55 kW) electric motor, powered by lithium-ion batteries. The series hybrid system then offered around 20 km of pure electric mode driving, so this one improves on things by a bit.

Suzuki says that the car – which features a covered front grille, LED lighting and covered wheels among the external revisions – has a smaller battery that’s quicker to charge, weighs less, uses fewer resources and costs less. More undoubtedly, in Tokyo.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 13:11:31 +0000.

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Suzuki Q-concept – is that you, Suzy Q?

Anthony Lim — Fri, 11 Nov 2011 05:16:21 +0000

Joining the Regina at the Suzuki stand in Tokyo will be the Q-concept, which the company says offers an entirely new kind of mobility, one that’s positioned between conventional motorcycles and cars.

The 2.5 metre long vehicle seats two in a tandem configuration, and Suzuki says it’d be perfect for everyday journeys within a radius of about 10 km, offering more practicality than a car as it’s more manoeuvrable and takes up much less parking space – at the same time, a cabin makes it a more attractive, more comfortable option than a motorcycle.

Which makes it outstandingly handy for shopping, commuting, going to the doctor and transporting children to and from school. Just the thing to have for people who live in towns where businesses, schools, hospitals and other essential facilities are all in relatively compact areas, so it goes.

Ther Q-concept offers configuration options – you can have a single seat for a parent at the front and a two-person child seat at the rear, or it can be configured as a delivery vehicle with a single seat at the front and a cargo area at the rear.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 13:11:31 +0000.

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Suzuki Regina concept is another Tokyo debutant

Anthony Lim — Thu, 10 Nov 2011 05:39:43 +0000

Among the Tokyo-bound brigade will be Suzuki’s Regina concept, which the company says offers a vision of a next-generation global compact car, one displaying excellent fuel efficiency and low emissions through lightness of being and superior aerodynamics.

The Regina weighs just 730 kg, so it’s as light as a minicar, and aided by a clear focus on minimising weight, the company says this funky Suzy has a drag coefficient at least 10% lower than that of current models, all due to uncompromising efforts to heighten aerodynamic performance.

As a result, it offers a fuel economy of at least 32 km per litre (measured in the JC08 test cycle) and CO2 emissions as low as 70 g/km (under the NEDC) using a petrol engine. Of course, there’s no mention of exactly what mill the car uses – more when the 42nd running of the show takes place, one presumes.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 13:11:31 +0000.

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Suzuki-Volkswagen squabble: no backing down either way

Anthony Lim — Mon, 17 Oct 2011 01:26:08 +0000

According to reports, the ongoing dispute between Suzuki and Volkswagen over the companies’ capital tie-up took a turn for the worse last Friday, and there’s a likelihood that the matter may be taken to court.

At a press conference in Tokyo, Suzuki executive VP Yasuhiti Harayama said that Suzuki was promised easy access to VW’s environmental car technologies, but it never became a reality, referring to the 2009 agreement between the firms.

The German automaker said that it has honoured its commitments all along, and expostulates that it’s prepared to provide comprehensive technological assistance, but that Suzuki is misunderstanding the situation, the reports add.

On Friday, VW said – in response to Suzuki – that every possibility will be considered in weighing its options, suggesting that it may file suit to prove that the agreement has not been violated on its side.

Volkswagen also reiterated its stand that Suzuki has done nothing about its own violation of the contract, with regards to Suzuki’s cooperation with Fiat to procure diesel engines from the latter – VW says that the engine deal violates their tie-up agreement, but Harayama stated that it was not a breach of contract.

A September 30 deadline issued by Suzuki for VW to retract what it called a defamatory accusation went by without the desired response from the German automaker; it had received a response from the German automaker, but had then stated that it was “not worth commenting on.”

Both sides are effectively refusing to budge, and so a meeting between top executives may hold the key to resolving the conflict; Harayama added that Suzuki is hoping to talk to VW’s chief executive Martin Winterkorn as soon as possible.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 13:11:31 +0000.

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Suzuki Swift GX launched – RM65,888 OTR with insurance

Anthony Lim — Wed, 05 Oct 2011 09:40:56 +0000

Suzuki Malaysia Automobile (SMA) today introduced its latest Swift 1.5 variant, the GX, which takes the ongoing second-generation hatch to a new price level, dipping well under the RM70k mark.

The arrival of the GX follows on the refreshed variant called the GLX, which was introduced in July, and the idea with this one is to bring the car to a new level of affordability, and very much aimed at specific competition. At RM65,888 on the road, with insurance, it should very well open up the Swift to a new crowd, with the idea of providing ownership that’s easy on the wallet – a monthly repayment of as low as RM550 can be had for it, going through selected loan packages.

For the price, SMA has kept all bits deemed necessary, with nothing omitted in the safety department – the GX has dual SRS airbags, and ABS, electronic brakeforce distribution and brake assist have been retained.

Essentially, it’s very much the same car as the GLX, sans the new front bumper grille, rear combination lamp, side skirts and rear spoiler. Also, you don’t get the retractable side mirrors with indicator light found on the GLX, and there are no rear headrests on the GX, though SMA says you can buy them as an optional item.

Elsewhere, out go the digital information display and keyless go, and the GLX’s six-speaker radio/CD system is replaced by a Blaupunkt single-DIN head unit with USB connectivity and a two-speaker system, the idea being that owners are more likely than not to up the audio system to something tastier.

Otherwise, you get the same 15-inch alloys, reverse sensors and alarm system with immobiliser as on the GLX. The same five colours available for the GLX – Bayside Blue, Serene Silver, Supreme Red, Superior White and Tranquility Black – are also to be had for the GX.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 13:11:31 +0000.

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Volkswagen-Suzuki rift: no resolution despite deadline

Anthony Lim — Mon, 03 Oct 2011 05:10:12 +0000

So does the spat continue with the now out-of-love pair. According to reports, the ongoing feud between Volkswagen and Suzuki remains unresolved, with a September 30th deadline set by Suzuki – for VW to retract what it called a defamatory accusation – having gone past without the desired response.

Suzuki had sent a letter to VW last week giving the German automaker until the above date to publicly revoke a statement that the Japanese automaker had violated a pact by signing a diesel engine deal with Fiat, saying that the claim had damaged Suzuki’s reputation.

On Friday, the reports said that Suzuki stated it had received a response from the German automaker that was “not worth commenting on,” declining to disclose the contents of the response. Suzuki added that it hadn’t yet decided on the next course of action, now that its request had been ignored.

According to a Suzuki spokesman, the company wanted to keep the contents of the recent correspondence private, and that it simply wanted to inform that VW had honoured a request to respond by the due date. Meanwhile, VW also declined to reveal what it said in the emailed letter, but did repeat its demand that Suzuki reverse the alleged breach of contract within several weeks. It has also remained steadfast in its refusal to sell back its 19.9% stake in Suzuki to the Japanese automaker. A full takeover by VW has been bandied recently, but is very unlikely.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 13:11:31 +0000.

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Suzuki demands Volkswagen detract claims that Suzuki violated tie-up agreement with Fiat engine purchase

Paul Tan — Thu, 22 Sep 2011 16:46:28 +0000

The drama continues with Volkswagen and Suzuki’s rocky marriage – Suzuki has sent a letter to Volkswagen demanding that the German company retract its claim that Suzuki violated their tie-up agreement by purchasing diesel engines from Fiat.

According to Suzuki, their global reputation has been significantly damaged by the announcement, and denies that the diesel engine purchase from Fiat Powertrain Technologies violated the agreement. Suzuki claims they consulted Volkswagen about buying the Fiat diesel engines in January, and both parties came to an agreement at that time.

Furthermore, it is claimed that Suzuki only turned to Fiat after engines offered by Volkswagen failed to meet Suzuki’s specs.

The following is an excerpt from a press release issued by Suzuki this week detailing their side of the story of what happened:

Last year, both companies negotiated for several months regarding the conditions for Suzuki’s use of certain engines manufactured by Volkswagen AG, however, Suzuki’s requirements were never satisfied.

In January of this year, when Mr. Osamu Suzuki conferred with Dr. Winterkorn in Hamamatsu, Suzuki delivered its message that Suzuki would not be using Volkswagen diesel engines together with background reasons.

In response to such explanation, Dr. Winterkorn requested Suzuki to issue a written notification if Suzuki decided not to use diesel engines manufactured by Volkswagen AG. Within a couple days of such request, we formally notified Volkswagen AG of such decision in writing. Immediately after issuing such notice, engineers from both companies who are responsible for this matter also mutually confirmed with each other that Suzuki will not use diesel engines manufactured by Volkswagen AG.

Volkswagen AG has requested Suzuki in the mentioned notice to implement a process to compare the diesel engines manufactured by Volkswagen AG and by Fiat as a remedial action. We believe it is clearly unreasonable for Volkswagen AG to claim on 11 September that Suzuki is in breach of the Framework Agreement based on presumption that this process is deficient, after a considerable amount of time has passed since Suzuki and Volkswagen AG mutually confirmed that Suzuki would not be using such engine.

In addition to the above, we have fully expressed our views in the rebuttal letter which we have sent today and have included references to the factual background of this matter including negotiations that occurred before the execution of the agreement which established the alliance on 9 December 2009, and detailed quotations from letters exchanged between the two companies.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 13:11:31 +0000.

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Volkswagen takeover of Suzuki is unlikely to happen

Anthony Lim — Tue, 20 Sep 2011 04:46:03 +0000

The Volkswagen-Suzuki relationship may be heading south, but the rumour mill continues to run unabated. Now, a report speculates that VW is mulling a full takeover of Suzuki, even as the Japanese automaker is seeking a complete separation from the partnership.

German mag Der Spiegel reported that a senior manager at VW was quoted as saying that he didn’t rule out a full takeover of Suzuki. Other reports, however, have come out stating that this is highly unlikely to happen, given that Suzuki would have to want to sell, and without the willingness on the part of company chairman and CEO Osamu Suzuki in any bid would ultimately fall through.

Earlier reports said that Suzuki is looking to end its two-year relationship, following a fall-out that began when VW accused Suzuki of violating the agreement of the partnership by looking at Fiat for an engine deal. Suzuki has reportedly offered to buy back VW’s 19.9% stake, but VW has said it is happy with the investment and has no intention of selling.

While VW is unable to raise its stake in the Japanese company without the latter’s consent as long as the alliance is still in place, it can begin to do so if Suzuki cancels the partnership, the report adds. The takeover attempt is probably not going to get very far, given that the Japanese will likely adopt a protectionist attitude towards what would be correctly regarded as a hostile foreign bid.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 13:11:31 +0000.

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Frankfurt: 134 hp Suzuki Swift Sport makes public debut

Harvinder Sidhu — Thu, 15 Sep 2011 04:48:05 +0000

Although Suzuki is currently having a feud with Volkswagen over the supply of diesel engines from Fiat, it did stop the company from taking part in the Frankfurt Motor Show. It arrived in Germany with the Swift Sport which was already unveiled last month. The Swift Sport is a production version of the Suzuki S-Concept which was shown earlier this year.

It is powered by Suzuki’s high-revving 1.6 litre M16A engine which produces 134 hp and 160 Nm of torque. This is an increase from 125 hp and 148 Nm. The engine is linked to a 6-speed manual cog box along with a suspension that is said to offer “superior cornering stability”. The sporty treatment continues into the interior with sports seats, alloy pedals, a 5-gauge instrument cluster and more.

The Swift Sport also comes with a total of seven airbags and an Electronic Stability Programme (ESP). You can learn more about the new Suzuki Swift Sport right here. You can also continue reading to check out some live photos.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 13:11:31 +0000.

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Suzuki and Volkswagen partnership may come to an end over Fiat engine deal

Harvinder Sidhu — Mon, 12 Sep 2011 11:30:38 +0000

The Nikkei has just published a report in regards to the brewing Suzuki/Volkswagen feud, stating that the Japanese brand will offer to terminate its capital and business deals with the German auto giant.

A statement by Suzuki that was sent to the Tokyo Stock Exchange revealed that the decision was made during an unscheduled board meeting today. This comes after Volkswagen claimed on Sunday that Suzuki has breached its partnership with Volkswagen by engaging Fiat to supply diesel engines to Suzuki.

Autonews also reported that Suzuki will ask Volkswagen to sell the 19.9% stake it has in Suzuki. At the same time Suzuki also plans to sell its 1.49% stake in Volkswagen, if it agrees to the arrangement.

This issue has somewhat affected Volkswagen’s plans of forming a strong alliance with Suzuki. The marriage was supposed to combine Suzuki’s dominance in India with Volkswagen’s global reach. A forecasting done by IHS Automotive indicate that Suzuki, or Maruti Suzuki as it is known in India will sell 36% of the total 3.07 million vehicles delivered in the country in 2011.

A technology collaboration was also planned in the hybrid and EV segments but to date, no solid outcome has been announced. Chairman Osamu Suzuki mentioned in a newspaper column in July that he has not found any Volkswagen technologies that he would like to carry over into Suzuki.

He also went on to say that he is open with forming alliances with others and mentioned in an interview on August 10th that he does not see a reason why Volkswagen would be upset in regards to the Fiat deal. Last month, two Suzuki executives also said that “a successful relationship depends on an understanding that the two are equal partners”.

Suzuki also said that the partnership has become non-beneficial for the company’s management freedom. It was in fact stated in Volkswagen’s annual report in March that the company can “significantly influence financial and operating policy decisions” in Suzuki.

Despite all this, Volkswagen said on Sunday that it still considers Suzuki as an attractive investment and has given the company several weeks to remedy the infringement. The company’s CEO Martin Winterkorn revealed in May that his company planned to target the small car segment in India as part of a potential joint project with Suzuki, apart from parts procurement and the alternative-drive technology development.

Suzuki is expected to make an official announcement over the matter soon.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 13:11:31 +0000.

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New Maruti Swift off to a great start, 80% ordered diesel!

Danny Tan — Thu, 25 Aug 2011 07:06:13 +0000

Maruti Suzuki launched the new Swift in India last week, and the supermini has got off to the best possible start. Even before the price was announced at the launch, Maruti received an amazing 50,000 bookings for its latest model, and the waiting period starts from three months.

Maruti plans to sell 18,000 units of the new Swift per month, making it the market leading brand’s second biggest model in terms of volume, second only to the Alto. It’s looking like a successful sequel to the success that is the previous gen Swift, which found over 600,000 new Indian owners since it was launched back in 2005.

Here’s something more interesting: of the 50k pre orders, 80% of them were for the Swift Diesel, proving that diesel torque and economy is really catching on in the subcontinent!

The oil burner in question is a Fiat sourced 1.3-litre DDiS engine with 75 PS and 190 Nm of torque from 2,000 rpm. Maruti quotes 22.9 km/l economy, which should be a best effort cruising figure. The other option is a 1.2-litre K series petrol engine with 87 PS and 114 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm. This one does 18.6 km/l.

Wouldn’t it be great if Suzuki introduces a diesel option when they launch the new Swift here?

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 13:11:31 +0000.

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New Suzuki Swift Sport – 136 PS, 160 Nm, 6-speed manual

Danny Tan — Thu, 11 Aug 2011 04:57:04 +0000

Click to enlarge image

This is the new Suzuki Swift Sport, based on the current generation Swift that was launched last year. To debut in next month’s Frankfurt show, it has emerged almost identical to the Suzuki S-Concept shown in Geneva in March.

Compared to Geneva’s yellow concept, we can see that the production SSS has lost both the vents behind the front wheels and in front of the rear wheels. No red calipers, the alloy design is less flashy and there’s a more subtle rear spoiler. But that’s about it. Like the current car, the Swift Sport doesn’t shout too loud, which is a good thing.

This is the Suzuki S-Concept, production SSS looks almost identical bar small details

Under the hood is Suzuki’s 1.6-litre M16A engine, coaxed for better figures. The high-revving twin-cam naturally aspirated unit now makes 136 PS and 160 Nm of torque, up from 125 horses and 148 Nm. Also important is the fact that max torque is now made at 4,400 rpm, 400 rpm lower than before. There’s also something else current Swift Sport owners will envy – the SSS now comes with a six-speed manual gearbox.

Handling wise, Suzuki says that the new Swift Sport offers “superior cornering stability and brisker, more responsive handling thanks to struts with internal rebound springs and an exclusive rear-suspension design”. Seven airbags (including driver’s knee) and ESP are among the safety kit.

In today’s landscape where a 200 hp hatch is no big deal, and many cooking variants are turbocharged or diesel powered, the SSS might be scoffed at, but we commend Suzuki for sticking with this formula. A high revving NA engine can be intoxicating for those who know. You may be going faster, but I’m having lots of fun getting there!

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 13:11:31 +0000.

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Suzuki Malaysia refreshens Swift – 1.5 GLX introduced

Anthony Lim — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 08:44:40 +0000

Suzuki Malaysia Automobile today introduced the updated Swift, now in 1.5 GLX guise. It’s essentially the second-generation one, given some new bobs and bits – there’s no sign of the third-generation model just quite yet.

No change to the drivetrain and powertrain, or their specs and figures, the 1.5 litre M15A VVT DOHC mill continuing along with the four-speed auto transmission. As far as it goes, no changes to the interior too, with the exterior being the only thing reworked. What’s new is to the Swift 1.5L GLX is a deeper front bumper, new lower grille and sporty side skirts

Also on the new list are silver-coloured fog lamp piping, an engine cover and a new ‘expressively styled’ spoiler, as the company puts it, adorning the rear. Meanwhile, the rear bonnet flows downwards into a deeper bumper, which defines the outer edges of a new honeycomb grille that extends to the lower edge of the bumper. New rear combination lamps finish the dressing up of a fave that has sold more than 19,000 units here since it was introduced.

Five colours are available – Bayside Blue, Serene Silver, Supreme Red, Tranquility Black and Superior White. The 1.5 GLX goes for RM75,788, on the road with insurance, which is two thousand more than before with the 1.5A/T. If you’re so inclined, you can opt for the add-on package that is badged the GXS, replete with leather seats, V-Kool tint and an Threebond Ultra Glass Coating Neo treatment, which bumps the price up to RM81,888, again OTR with insurance.

Gallery of launch photos after the jump.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 13:11:31 +0000.

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Suzuki now looking to expand ties with Fiat

Anthony Lim — Mon, 25 Jul 2011 03:27:24 +0000

In further news that is surely telling about the current climate of that particular relationship, Suzuki is eyeing deeper ties with Fiat as its frustration with Volkswagen grows, reports say.

Automobilwoche reports that a senior Suzuki executive, who was unnamed, told the German weekly that the cooperation with Fiat has been going well in a climate of mutual trust for years. “It is perfectly imaginable that a strengthened partnership would be beneficial to both parties. On the other hand, our cooperation with Volkswagen is still being reviewed,” he said.

Back in May, Corriere della Sera, an Italian daily, reported that a secret meeting took place between Fiat and Suzuki executives in Italy.

Meanwhile, Hans Demant, who is in charge of international cooperation at VW, said both automakers were two independent companies with different economic models. “As a result, cooperation should be developed with caution. It is unfortunately taking a little longer than what had been initially planned,” he was quouted as telling Automobilwoche.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 13:11:31 +0000.

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IIMS 2011: Suzuki Concept-G is based on the JDM Alto

Danny Tan — Fri, 22 Jul 2011 08:22:25 +0000

Small car is big news at the 2011 Indonesian International Motor Show, and besides the Daihatsu A-Concept that will be unveiled later in the day, Suzuki has a little green thing called the Concept-G. They call the colour Breezy Pasture Green Pearl, and the car is so green that the eco-friendly hue can be seen on the rims and lights as well. Ok guys, we get the message!

If it looks familiar, yes, the Concept-G is based on the Japanese market Suzuki Alto. This JDM Alto, which stays inside the 3.4-metre long and 1.48-metre wide kei car boundary, is a different car from the Suzuki Alto sold in Malaysia, which is made in India for the rest of the world. In Japan, Suzuki also makes the car for Mazda, which calls it Carol.

They’re not giving out any technical details for now, except that the engine is a K-series petrol unit. That’s not surprising, since there’s no need for a 660 cc engine outside of Japan, and the K-series is widely used by Maruti Suzuki in India, where the unit powers cars like the Swift and A-Star (Alto to us).

Last month, Jakarta Post reported that Suzuki will be investing up to US$800 million over the next few years to expand its business in Indonesia, which will act as its regional base. The same report says that Suzuki will set up a new plant in West Java while boosting production capacity at its existing plants in Tambun, Bekasi and West Java.

Will the Concept-G be part of Suzuki’s plans for the region? Live gallery after the jump.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 13:11:31 +0000.

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Suzuki unhappy with Volkswagen’s attitude in partnership

Anthony Lim — Mon, 18 Jul 2011 09:44:11 +0000

According to a report, Suzuki isn’t very pleased with Volkswagen’s attitude in the partnership the two companies formed at the end of 2009. The tie-up was planned to give Wolfsburg an inside track into Suzuki’s small-car technology, and for Suzuki to access VW’s hybrid and a host of next-gen tech that it had no means financially to develop on its own.

Suzuki’s CEO Osamu Suzuki had insisted back then that the alliance would be formed on an equal basis, limiting VW’s stake in the Japanese automaker to 19.9% and stating it would pay the equivalent value to buy VW’s shares.

Now, cracks in the relationship have come about. Reuters reports that the Japanese automaker isn’t chuffed by its German partner’s claim that it could wield great influence over Suzuki’s management, something that was stated in VW’s annual report to shareholders, no less.

Suzuki’s executive vice-president Yasuhito Harayama told reporters in Japan just who is in charge of Suzuki’s relations with VW. “It was made very clear when we tied up with Volkswagen that we did not want to become consolidated, and that we would remain independent,” he said.

“We feel we need to return to the starting point, including over the ownership ratio. The understanding that we are independent companies, and equal partners, is the absolute prerequisite in pursuing any specific cooperation.”

Harayama added that Suzuki will continue to pursue operational relationships with a wide range of companies, while holding back on any projects with VW until the two parties are able to reaffirm their initial understanding. “Right now, there is no specific joint development project going on with Volkswagen,” he stated.

Last month, Suzuki announced a deal to buy 1.6 litre diesel engines from Fiat, a deal that the company says proves it can do without VW.

Update: Further reports coming about say that Volkswagen, in response to Harayama’s comments, has said it would not encroach on Suzuki’s autonomy.

“Volkswagen and Suzuki are and will remain two independent companies. No increase of Volkswagen’s Suzuki stake has been agreed upon,” Hans Demant, who is in charge of the alliance at VW, told Reuters through comments provided by his spokesman,

The rift isn’t that trivial sounding. As an analyst puts it, “Japanese managers do not readily criticise publicly, so the fact that in this case they have shows that there really is a problem.”
Whether it means the end of a long-term working partnership between the two companies remains to be seen.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 13:11:31 +0000.

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“Monster” Tajima breaks 10 minute barrier at Pikes Peak

Anthony Lim — Wed, 29 Jun 2011 07:54:32 +0000

Click to enlarge

Nobuhiro “Monster” Tajima has become the first person to break the fabled 10 minute barrier at Pikes Peak. The 60-year-old steered his SX4 race car to a record time of 9 minutes, 51.278 seconds to record his sixth consecutive outright win at the international hill climb.

Tajima had to overcome serious mechanical issues on his record-breaking run, in this case a blown radiator and a sudden loss of power steering in the final part of run up the 19.9 km-long course.

Click to enlarge

A fixture at the event since 1988, Tajima has now won the unlimited division a record 11 times, all behind the wheel of Suzuki vehicles.

Click to enlarge

This year’s win in the turbocharged 912 hp and 890 Nm 3.0 litre V6 Monster Special Pikes Peak SX4 maintains an unbeaten run that now stretches back to 2003.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 13:11:31 +0000.

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Suzuki to build new engine plant in Indonesia

Anthony Lim — Fri, 24 Jun 2011 04:48:34 +0000

Suzuki has unveiled plans to construct an engine plant in Indonesia, which is set to be ready by March 2012, according to the Nikkei.

When operational, the facility – which is being built at its existing production base in West Java – will have a build capacity of 100,000 engines a year. It already makes 50,000 engines a year in Indonesia, but imports the rest from Japan to fulfill the demand from its local assembly operation, which produces the Swift, SX4 and APV minivan.

Local assembly output was 75,000 vehicles in fiscal 2010, but the Japanese automaker is set to increase its annual output to 100,000 units. The new plant will obviously help boost local procurement, lower production costs and improve efficiency. The total investment for the exercise will amount to 30 billion yen (RM1.13 billion)

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 13:11:31 +0000.

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