2011 Suzuki GSV-R

The Rizla Suzuki MotoGP team has unveiled its 2011 challenger. Sporting a livery from Troy Lee Designs, the Suzuki GSV-R now produces over 220 bhp (165 kW / 225 PS) from its 800 cc V4 engine.

Combined with a weight of around 150 kg (330 lbs), that should be enough for a top speed of at least 205 mph (330 km/h). But that’s just one part of the performance mix - work has also been done to improve driveability and acceleration out of slow corners, while chassis stiffness has received attention to enhance handling and traction.

Rizla Suzuki will only be fielding one GSV-R this season, for Spanish rider Álvaro Bautista. The new bike will make its debut at this weekend’s MotoGP test session at Qatar, ahead of the first race of the season on 20 March which also takes place at the Losail circuit.

Suzuki’s fuel-cell scooter

Could a production version of the Suzuki Burgman Fuel-Cell Scooter be closer to reality?

The model has just earned European Union Whole Vehicle Type Approval, meaning that each example built for the development programme now no longer needs to go through Single Vehicle Approval to check conformity to safety and environmental standards.



EU approval is important to the project, because the bike’s hydrogen fuel-cell was developed by UK firm Intelligent Energy, and the Burgman’s trials are centred on Loughborough University in Leicestershire, England.

Arguably, electric vehicles that take their charge from a fuel-cell are a much more practical proposition compared to those that use a battery. There’s no recharging time, the only emission is water and range anxiety is an alien concept.



The current downsides, however, are the amount of energy required to obtain the hydrogen in the first place and the lack of a refuelling infrastructure.

Top 10: Cheapest new cars

With the increase in the rate of UK Value Added Tax from 17.5% to 20% on 4th January, the media has been trying to paint a picture of doom and gloom for the car industry.



But for anyone still looking to buy a brand new car without paying lots of extra tax, these are the ten cheapest model ranges currently available in the UK. Of course, for the same money, there will probably be plenty of better used cars available...



1. Chevrolet Spark £7,215 - £10,485

Modern with distinctive looks, the Spark benefits from the Chevrolet 5 Year Promise which includes warranty, servicing, roadside assistance, annual vehicle checks and MOT warranty for - no prizes for guessing - five years.



On the downside, the basic £7,215 Spark does without niceties such as central locking and air conditioning. There’s no radio either, and the windows have to be wound up and down manually.



2. Nissan Pixo £7,350 - £9,450

The Pixo is essentially a re-badged Suzuki Alto, and is built alongside it in India by Maruti Suzuki.



Those buyers looking for remote central locking, side airbags, electric front windows and split folding rear seats will have to go for the mid-range Acenta trim level, which costs £8,100. None of those items are included with the entry-level Visia specification.



3. Kia Picanto £7,370 - £9,100

In basic Picanto ‘1’ guise, there’s vinyl and cloth trim and no air conditioning, but at least electric front windows are standard.



As an incentive to buy, Kia has cut prices across the Picanto range until the end of January 2011. Consequently, the Picanto ‘1’ is currently reduced to £6,670, while the more generously equipped Picanto ‘2’ has dropped from £8,595 to £8,095. However, it’s worth bearing in mind that a second generation Picanto has just been announced, so expect the current model to be replaced later this year.



4. Volkswagen Fox £7,615 - £8,525

A new Volkswagen for under £8,000? Then it’ll have to be the Brazilian-built Fox, although in Europe it’s only available in three-door form.



The 54 bhp (40 kW / 55 PS) 1.2 litre petrol engine found in the £7,615 Fox has been phased out, because it’s not compliant with Euro 5 emissions standards. Cars in that spec might still be available from dealer stock, but any new factory orders will come with a reworked 1.2 motor that produces 59 bhp (44 kW / 60 PS). Unfortunately, the change pushes up the entry price slightly to £7,790 but, as a sweetener, until the end of March 2011 Volkswagen is offering three years’ fixed priced servicing for £299. 



5. Hyundai i10 £7,890 - £9,040

Even the basic i10, the Classic, comes with a generous list of equipment: air conditioning, electric front windows, radio / CD player with four speakers, 60/40 split rear seats, central locking and front side airbags are all standard. What’s more, there’s a five year warranty to complete the package.



Power comes from a 76 bhp (57 kW / 77 PS) 1.2 litre petrol engine with a five-speed gearbox. Performance is respectably brisk, with 0-62 mph (100 km/h) acceleration taking 12.8 seconds and a top speed of 102 mph (164 km/h).



6. Fiat Panda £7,960 - £13,975

The top end of the Panda range is now rather decimated, because the more expensive variants - including the 100 HP, 4x4 and 4x4 Cross - aren’t Euro 5 compliant. Lesser models have been affected too, with the lead-in £7,960 Panda 1.1 Active Eco also only conforming to Euro 4. That means that Fiat has to get rid of any unsold stock fast, so it has reduced the price down to £6,295 until the end of March 2011.



Effectively replacing the 1.1 Active Eco is the 1.2 Active, which meets Euro 5 standards but costs £8,155. The slightly bigger engine does have its benefits, though. Power is up 25% from 53 bhp (40 kW / 54 PS) to 68 bhp (50 kW / 69 PS), allowing the Panda to top 100 mph (160 km/h), yet combined cycle fuel economy actually improves from 56.5 mpg (5.0 l/100km) to 57.6 mpg (4.9 l/100km).



7. Proton Savvy £7,995 - £8,695

There’s really just one Savvy model on offer, the only choice being between manual or automated manual transmissions, but it’s well equipped. Electric front windows, air conditioning and a four-speaker stereo are all included, as are 15” alloy wheels, remote central locking and reverse parking sensors. 



One drawback though is relatively high CO2 emissions from the 73 bhp (55 kW / 75 PS) 1.2 litre engine. 134 g/km means that UK owners will have to hand over £110 each year for road tax, whereas Pixo and Alto drivers, for example, would pay £20.



8. Perodua Myvi £7,999 - £9,399

With the disappearance of the Kenari from the Perodua price list, the Myvi becomes the only model in the manufacturer’s UK line-up. Based on the Daihatsu Sirion / Boon and Toyota Passo, the Myvi comes with a three year warranty, but service intervals are only 10,000 miles.



Perodua is currently knocking off £1,000 from the prices of all its cars until the end of March 2011, which brings the entry-level SXI down to £6,999.





9. Suzuki Alto £8,345 - £9,760

Prices for the Alto have increased dramatically in recent months but, to compensate, Suzuki is offering the Alto SZ3 and SZ4 derivatives ‘VAT free’ until the end of March 2011. That useful discount brings the cost of the cheaper SZ3 down to £6,953.



Like the Pixo, all versions are powered by a 67 bhp (50 kW / 68 PS) three-cylinder petrol engine that produces 103 g/km of CO2 - so near yet so far from the 100 g/km target that would have made both models exempt from the London Congestion Charge.



10. Toyota Aygo £8,485 - £11,115

One reason for choosing the Aygo over the basically identical Peugeot 107 and Citroën C1 is the Toyota’s lower entry price. £8,485 is enough for the basic three-door version, with another £355 needed for the five-door.



However, with that entry-level spec, there’s no air conditioning, central locking or electric windows although, like every Aygo, it does benefit from a five year warranty.





As a footnote, the Daihatsu Sirion might have made it onto the list. However, the company hasn’t updated its prices since last April and this notice on the Daihatsu website probably explains why:

“Due to the current weakness of the Pound against the Japanese Yen it has not been possible to order cars from our factory. As a result, some models are now in very short supply. We are sorry if you are unable to find the exact colour and specification of the car you want, however your dealer will be able to advise you on the availability of stock across the UK.”

2010 SUZUKI CONCEPT GSX-R4 VERSION

This is suzuki concept car assumed it is Suzuki since it has Suzuki logos all over Suzuki has premiered the 2010 Kizashi Turbo Concept which made its public debut April 30th on the Speed Channel's Test Drive program.

The concept was born out of the designs of Suzuki tuner Road Race Motorsports working with a pre-production Kizashi GTS. Road Race Motorsports added its own 16G turbocharger, high-flow intercooler, an extreme spray injector, a blow-off valve and a velocity air intake. All that takes the Kizashi up to a competitive 290 bhp (216 kW).

  is made by a student with good taste and skills. He drawn a sketch and made the clay model. It took 10 months to build it (April 06 - February 07). I don't remember if I saw it since it is 4 years old model(maybe one of the GSX-R4 version?) but I wouldn't mind if Suzuki would build such a great looking sports car.

Suzuki 2010 New Review Specification

Those of you cat-and-mouse for the new Suzuki Swift to get Stateside will accept to adjournment a little bit longer. After the Kizashi didn't absolutely accomplish the burst that Suzuki had hoped for, and with Suzuki sales in America crumbling, it appears that the Japanese automaker and 20% stakeholder Volkswagen AG will sit bottomward to anatomy a new action plan.Suzuki 2010 New Review Specification

Part of that plan includes putting the Swift's US accession on authority until at atomic 2011 so that appraisement and action could be evaluated. Some of the acumen abaft the adjournment has to do with the ascent Japanese yen, which has additionally biconcave the company's US business division.

Having already cut announcement spending significantly, Suzuki says that they are afraid to accession prices or cut agreeable to annul the barter amount issue. The baby auto will be awash in Europe and Japan until US bazaar capacity are finalized.

Suzuki V-Strom 650A XP

Suzuki’s range of 645 cc V-twin middleweights continues to expand. Following the re-launch of the SV650S back in May, there’s now another member of the V-Strom family.



The V-Strom 650A XP - to give the new arrival its full title - is based on the existing ABS-equipped model. What makes the XP unique is all the extras that Suzuki has thrown at it, in an attempt to appeal to serious touring / adventure riders. So, standard kit includes black aluminium panniers (with a total capacity of 82 litres), a centre stand and plenty of guards (for the engine, sump and rider’s hands).

Available from the end of August in a choice of Candy Max Orange or Metallic Oort Grey, the V-Strom 650A XP has a UK retail price of £7,300, which translates to £7,425 on the road.

An obvious competitor will be the BMW F 650 GS which, with the optional centre stand and ABS specified, costs £7,210 OTR. Of course, at that price it still lacks the various guards and panniers of the V-Strom, but the BMW still has two things in its favour that may appeal to certain riders.



The first is weight, because the F 650 GS weighs 199 kg ready to ride and fully fuelled. That’s considerably lighter than the Suzuki which, in standard V-Strom 650A guise, has a ‘kerb mass’ of 220 kg. Data for the XP version has yet to be released but, given its additional equipment, expect it to be even heavier.



The second is seat height. Although both bikes have standard seat heights of 820 mm, the BMW can be ordered with a 795 mm low seat at no extra charge. Alternatively, for £165 the F 650 GS can be built with tweaked suspension that lowers it down to 765 mm.

Confusing Suzuki SX4

Car manufacturers are generally very careful when choosing car names, in case something is lost in translation. That’s why, for example, the Mitsubishi Pajero is known as the Montero for the Spanish market, and the Buick LaCrosse was originally renamed Allure in Canada to better appeal to French speakers.



The easy solution is to just use letters and numbers, although that didn’t work out too well for Toyota when its MR2 went on sale in France. And that strategy can also lead to a long string of nonsense, which is where Suzuki comes in.



Its SX4 has been around for nearly four years now. Sporting mini-SUV looks and that name, casual observers might be lured into thinking it has four-wheel drive - which it probably doesn’t. The latest model names just add to the confusion.

The entry-level version is known as the SZ3 (no sign of an SZ1 or SZ2), which features niceties such as four electric windows, six airbags, eight speakers but no four-wheel drive. There’s only one engine choice, a 1.6 litre petrol that produces 118 bhp (88 kW / 120 PS).



45.6 mpg (6.2 l/100km) on the combined cycle is good, as is a CO2 emissions figure of 143 g/km. However, it looks like economy has been the priority, as 0-62 mph (100 km/h) acceleration takes a leisurely 10.7 seconds and the top speed is 115 mph (185 km/h). The UK on the road price for the SZ3 is £11,750.



Next up is the SX4 SZ4. Now you’d think that with all those 4s surely it must have four-wheel drive? But no… still front-wheel drive, and still just that 1.6 litre petrol on offer, although it can be had with a performance-sapping automatic gearbox. Additional spec over the SZ3 includes 16” alloys, keyless entry and start, side body protection and fully automatic air con. The SZ4 costs £12,395, with the optional automatic £1,025 extra.



Completing the revised line-up is the SZ5. This too is available with the petrol engine, although there’s also a 133 bhp (99 kW / 135 PS) 2.0 litre diesel on offer. The former comes with rear privacy glass, while the latter adds cruise control and a six-speed manual gearbox to the standard kit list.



The shocking news is that both have Suzuki’s i-AWD (intelligent - All Wheel Drive) system. This has three modes that the driver can switch between: 4WD-Auto, 4WD-Lock, and 2WD.



As expected, the SZ5 diesel is less thirsty than the petrol, achieving 51.4 mpg (5.5 l/100km) on the combined cycle. It’s marginally slower though, with a 0-62 mph (100 km/h) time of 11.2 seconds and a top speed of 112 mph (180 km/h).



It’s quite a bit more expensive, too. Whereas the petrol SZ5 costs £14,235, the diesel version is £15,995.

New Suzuki Swift Breaks Cover

A 1.2-liter petrol agent with Dual VVT (Variable assimilation and bankrupt valve timing) replaces the approachable 1.3-liter unit. It produces 94-horsepower at 6,000rpm, hardly added than the approachable 1.3-litre unit, while torque is additionally bigger to 118Nm (87 lb-ft) at 4,800rpm.

Fuel burning for this agent on the accumulated aeon is 5.0 lt/100km, according to 56.5mpg UK and 47.0mpg US for the chiral manual model, an advance of 0.8lt/100km or 7.8mpg UK over the antecedent 1.3-litre unit.New Suzuki Swift Breaks Cover

GSX-R 25th anniversary

The first Suzuki to bear the GSX-R name was the 750F, launched back in 1985. Twenty-five years later, Suzuki has created special editions based on the current GSX-R range to celebrate the anniversary.



Earlier this year saw the arrival of the GSX-R600 and GSX-R750 Limited Editions. Both had blue and white paintwork inspired by earlier versions of the bikes, Yoshimura exhausts and commemorative plaques.



Now it’s the turn of the GSX-R1000 to get the Limited Edition treatment. Like its smaller siblings, it gets engraved Yoshimura exhaust end cans and a numbered plaque, but it also features laser etched wheel rim graphics and a unique colour scheme.

Perhaps confusing 25th and 50th anniversaries, Suzuki has gone for gold and white paint (surely silver would’ve been more appropriate?). Fair enough, except that the gold colour looks suspiciously like brown from the pictures.



That probably won’t put off buyers of the twenty-five examples that’ll be available in the UK, out of a total world-wide production of 1,000. And nor will the price: at £11,125 on the road, customers will be paying a £651 premium over the standard bike for what are - exhaust apart - purely cosmetic changes.



The order book for the GSX-R1000 Limited Edition opens on 1 June 2010 via the Suzuki website.

Suzuki SV650S returns

After a brief absence, the SV650S is returning to Suzuki GB’s line-up. Priced at £4,999 on the road, it seems rather a bargain - so much so that maybe Suzuki has shot itself in the foot.

That’s because spending an extra £725 on an SV650 Sport, which is the same bike except for its pillion seat cover and fairing lowers, just got much harder to justify. The S even manages to be cheaper than the similarly-engined naked Gladius, which costs £5,274 OTR.



Of course list price and actual price are two very different things. For example, there’s currently a Scottish dealer offering the Sport at £4,595, but that could be an indication that Suzuki dealers are very willing to haggle right now.



The all-rounder middleweight / ‘first big bike’ market is very crowded, with well-established models such as the Kawasaki ER-6f, Yamaha XJ6 and Honda CBF600, as well as less obvious choices such as the Ducati Monster 696 or Aprilia Shiver 750. Nevertheless, the SV650S should be able to poach sales from its competitors on price alone.



The one thing the SV650S doesn’t offer is a colour choice. It’s only available in white, with a blue racing stripe through the middle of the fairing that is carried across along the top of the tank.

Suzuki Hayabusa: Fastest Motorcycle in the World

Suzuki Hayabusa designed by Suzuki is the fastest motorcycle in the world. 1300CC engine produces 175 horsepower and has a speed limit up to 189 mph. Hayabusa means Peregrine Falcon and also known as the GSX1300R in some countries. first introduced by Suzuki motorcycle in 1999. Have a 1340 cc (81.7 cu in) inline-4 engine and are consistently tested as the production of the fastest motorcycles in the world. yg 2008 model year sold U.S. $ 11,999.

Suzuki has presented restyling of compact hatchback SX4

The Japanese company Suzuki has presented restyling of model SX4 in China.

Appearance of a compact hatchback with crossover elements has undergone cosmetic changes. On each side a front bumper there were flows over fog lights. A sedan, which sell in China and the USA (but not in Europe) has received modified rear optics. There was behind a small moulding on the fifth door.

Seats have upholstered with new materials, have changed the central extension housing. The North American version has received navigating system in a base complete set.

Engines and transmissions remained former since 2006. For model offer three petrol motors (1,5, 1,6 and 2,0-litre) and two turbodiesels (1,6 and 1,9-litre). Company Suzuki advertises the product as the car for middle class.

Mazda: special series AZ-Wagon

Japanese company Mazda has prepared for sales on home market special version Mazda AZ-Wagon.

The car is practically copy Suzuki Wagon R. Anything essentially new in the car is not present. The special version differs such small details, as lateral mirrors with repeaters of indexes of the turn, the chromeplated details of an interior, an automatic climate the control and a leather braid of a steering wheel.

2009 Suzuki Equator Debuts in Chicago

Suzuki's 2009 Equator pickup truck goes on sale late this year to offer one-stop shopping for adventurous types seeking recreational motorcycles and four-wheelers and a vehicle to carry them with. The styling takes cues from the rest of the Suzuki lineup (and looks a little bit like an old Toyota Tundra) but it's not too hard to tell that the Equator's based on the Nissan Frontier. Power is provided by a choice of 152-horsepower 2.5 liter four-cylinder or 261-horsepower 4.0 liter V6 engines, and five-speed manual and automatic transmissions are offered. Towing capacity is a healthy 6500 pounds, and the fully boxed frame and double-wishbone front suspension are shared with Nissan. The Equator can be equipped with an electronic locking rear differential and four-wheel limited-slip capability, as well as Nissan's Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) and hill descent control. A factory spray-on bedliner and cargo tiedowns are also features the Equator shares with the Frontier.

Suzuki showed three Equator concepts illustrating potential uses by the active-lifestyle buyers that Suzuki expects to attract. The RMZ-4 features flashy yellow paint similar to that of Suzuki's RMZ-4 motocross cycle series and radical off-roading accouterments; the Quad is an off-road toyhauler with a long bed and high-riding stance; and the Quay (pronounced "key") is a trailer-towing specialist with over-the road interior appointments like Bluetooth capability and a combination navigation and satellite radio head unit in the dash.

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Press Release

SUZUKI DEBUTS ALL-NEW EQUATOR MIDSIZE PICKUP TRUCK AT 2008 CHICAGO AUTO SHOW

• 2009 Suzuki Equator makes global debut in Windy City
• Striking activity-oriented Equator concept trucks communicate “Way of Life” brand spirit
• New pickup adds automotive offering for cross-divisional Suzuki product aficionados

To bolster its versatile and dynamic product line, enhance the company’s bold and adventurous brand identity and further expand the growing line of products marketed by approximately 500 Suzuki dealers nationwide, American Suzuki Motor Corp. debuts its all-new 2009 Equator midsize pickup truck at this year’s Chicago Auto Show. The introduction of the Equator marks Suzuki’s first entry into the midsize pickup truck market and expands the company’s offering of activity-oriented cars and trucks.

Leveraging Suzuki’s credibility as a maker of lifestyle-oriented, fun-to-use products, the Equator offers the perfect blend of style, utility and off-road capability that truck buyers – many of whom are current Suzuki motorcycle, ATV and marine product owners, loyalists and ambassadors – demand and enjoy. Developed as a joint effort with Nissan North America, Inc., and based on the Nissan Frontier, the 2009 Equator will be available in both Extended Cab and Crew Cab body styles and rear-wheel and four-wheel-drive configurations. The all-new 2009 Suzuki Equator pickup truck is scheduled to go on sale in the United States in the fourth quarter of 2008. Pricing has not yet been announced.

“Since Suzuki has continued to strengthen its brand equity among outdoor enthusiasts, we thought now was the right time to produce a vehicle that meets the additional needs many of these people have,” said Mark Harano, president American Suzuki Automotive Operations. “Truck buyers are a particularly good fit for Suzuki since they’re likely to participate in motorcycle riding, power boating and other lifestyle-oriented activities that fit with our brand identity and our product portfolio. The Equator provides Suzuki with an opportunity to build an authentic connection with a group of consumers who are familiar with our brand and, in many circumstances, own other Suzuki products.”

To introduce the Equator, Suzuki is unveiling three separate representations of the truck during its Chicago Auto Show press conference. The three concepts, coined the RMZ-4 for off-road enthusiasts, Quad for outdoor adventurers and Quay for boating and watersports aficionados, showcase Suzuki’s diverse brand spirit, while illustrating the capability and flexibility of the all-new Suzuki Equator.

In addition to Chicago’s global reveal of the all-new Equator, Suzuki will showcase the SXForce, a sportbike-inspired concept reinforcing the link between the company’s rich motorcycle heritage and versatile line of fun-to-drive automobiles, as well as a range of outdoor and performance-oriented motorcycles and ATVs, including the KingQuad 450, LT-R450 QuadRacer and all-new Hayabusa sportbike, to name a few.

2009 Suzuki Equator

Performance and Functionality

Built at Nissan’s manufacturing facility in Smyrna, Tenn., the 2009 Equator features a fuel efficient 2.5-liter DOHC inline four with 152 horsepower and 171 lb.-ft. of torque or an optional 4.0-liter, V6 DOHC engine producing a class-leading 261 hp with 281 lb.-ft. of torque. Designed for outstanding performance and durability, the Equator’s V6 engine incorporates an aluminum block with cast iron cylinder liners, forged steel crankshaft, microfinished crankshaft and camshafts, Teflon®-coated pistons, variable valve timing and a silent two-stage timing chain.

The Equator is matched to either a five-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission (I4 and V6), five-speed manual transmission (I4) or six-speed manual transmission (V6), and offers an available shift-on-the-fly four-wheel-drive system with an electronically controlled part-time two-speed transfer case. For enhanced off-road capability, the rugged Equator offers a comprehensive off-road traction system, including four-wheel limited slip, electronic locking rear differential, Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), hill descent control and hill start assist.

The Equator’s strong, fully boxed frame anchors a long 125.9-inch wheelbase (Extended Cab or Crew Cab/regular bed), enhancing driver and passenger comfort and stability, while its overall length of 205.5 inches (Extended Cab or Crew Cab/regular bed) provides the perfect balance of utility, maneuverability and composure for a midsize pickup truck. The 2009 Equator features an all-steel double-wishbone front suspension and solid axle rear suspension with overslung leaf springs and a long suspension stroke for optimized off-road dynamics. Maximum towing capacity is rated at 6,500 pounds. EPA fuel economy estimates are still preliminary.

Other Equator powertrain components include engine-speed-sensitive power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering for responsiveness and good on-center feel and standard four-wheel disc brakes with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD). Equator also features a variety of available wheel and tire packages, including 16-inch off-road style wheels with rugged 265/75R16 tires and 17-inch wheels with 265/65R17 tires.

Styling and Utility

The all-new Equator features a contemporary exterior design with a number of unique Suzuki elements, including hood, front fenders, grille, bumpers, front fascia and tailgate. Both Equator Extended Cab and Crew Cab models offer an available high-utility bed that includes a factory-applied spray-on bedliner and an extensive tie-down system with adjustable tracks, providing ultimate cargo hauling flexibility through the use of five special "C" cross-section rails mounted in the bed (two channels in the bed floor and one each on the bed side rails and the bed header panel). Removable utility cleats slide into the channels, providing a wide range of attachment points for securing cargo – including Suzuki motorcycles or ATVs. Suzuki also will offer specialized bed accessories that make loading, securing and transporting a motorcycle or ATV easier than in many competitive trucks. To further satisfy the needs of active lifestyles, Suzuki will offer its customers a full range of more traditional accessories for use with the channel system, including bed dividers, sliding cargo trays and modular storage units. Crew Cab models will offer an available roof rack.

Interior

The Suzuki Equator offers the driver and up to four passengers a functional interior that combines versatility, cargo utility, comfort and convenience. Both Extended Cab and Crew Cab body styles feature flip-up rear seats, a fold-flat front passenger seat and removable storage boxes tucked beneath the rear seats to provide additional cargo capacity. The Equator offers additional convenience features such as a dual glove box with lock, damper and lamp, center console storage and one-liter bottle storage integrated into the front doors. A host of cupholders and power points are standard throughout the truck. Equator Crew Cab also will offer available leather-appointed seats, including a power-adjustable driver’s seat, heated seats, heated mirrors and a factory-installed moonroof. Additional available interior amenities include a Bluetooth® hands-free phone system, Rockford Fosgate-powered audio system with six-disc in-dash CD audio system, optional satellite radio and MP3 capability and MP3 player aux-in jack.

Safety and Packages

The all-new Equator includes a comprehensive list of standard safety equipment, including zone body construction with front and rear crumple zones, dual-stage front supplemental air bags with seat belt sensors and a front occupant classification sensor, three-point front seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters and Tire Pressure Monitoring System. To make the safety story even stronger, the Equator comes equipped with supplemental front seat side-impact air bags and standard supplemental curtain air bags for side impact and rollover protection for front and rear outboard passengers. Additionally, Extended Cab and Crew Cab models provide three-point seat belts for all rear seat occupants, including the center position for the Crew Cab. The LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) child seat anchor system is provided in the rear seat of the Crew Cab model.

Equator RMZ-4, Quay and Quad Concept Vehicles

Designed to match Suzuki’s performance-oriented motocross motorcycles, the RMZ-4 concept offers rugged off-road performance in a Crew Cab. This Equator-based concept, built by the Carlab of Orange, Calif., features a number of exterior modifications, including a bed extender provided by Amp Research, an eye-catching graphic treatment, 18-inch black chrome wheels and specialty Luzlab headlights. The truck’s striking exterior is matched by an equally stunning sound system that includes an Alpine HD-Radio unit connected to Rockford Fosgate amp and speaker components.

Another Carlab creation to debut in Chicago, the Quay concept is built to suit recreational boating and watersports lifestyles, with a customized paint job that reflects the look of Suzuki’s line of marine engines. With an Extended Cab, long bed and hefty towing capabilities, the truck also is equipped with a state-of-the-art Visteon nav-control head unit that provides satellite radio, MP3 and navigation capabilities, in addition to Rockford Fosgate amp and speaker components. The Quay also sports special 20-inch wheels and a matching locking hard tonneau cover.

Built to resemble the Suzuki QuadRunner ATV, and to accommodate a recreational outdoor lifestyle, the Quad concept was developed by Torrance, Calif.-based Andry Specialty Vehicles and comes outfitted with a Crew Cab and military “look and feel.” In addition to a custom paint job and a two-and-a-half inch front end lift, the exterior of the truck has been modified with a set of 500 series fog lamps, a safari-style front bumper, front skid plate and tubular rocker guards. To enhance the vehicle’s overall appearance and performance, the Quad is equipped with Yokohama Geolander tires that ride on 17-inch custom aluminum wheels and features Rockford Fosgate amp and speaker components.

Suzuki ready for first full WRC season

With Finish driver Toni Gardemeister and Swedish driver Per-Gunnar Andersson Suzuki is ready for their first ever full World Rally Championship season. After running in the Corsica and Great Britain rally races last year, Suzuki team is ready to go for the 2008 competition. Andersson won the Junior Rally Championship in a Suzuki Swift 1600 last year.

Starting with the Monte Carlo Rally this week, Suzuki will be vying for a a top slot in each of the 15 rally races this year. Awards for the Monte Carlo will be presented on Sunday. Suzuki has ran the race in Monte Carlo six times, but only in the Junior class. This will be their first run in the historic WRC event.

Each of the rally teams will use Pirelli control tires with the same tread pattern and compound. If needed, drivers may cut the tires by hand to help them race on water and gravel. Short studs can also be used, since icy roads are not uncommon in this race.

Suzuki is also running two cars in the same race for the first time ever. They are expected to do so for the entire season, barring any unforseen incidents.

Driver Toni Gardmeister played down the team's chances of winning, saying, "It’s fantastic for me to be back in the World Championship with Suzuki, and if things go well for us in Monte Carlo I think we can come away with points. The car is still new, so we’re not going to be on the pace of the frontrunners yet, but the overall set-up and reliability is good."

Press Release:

Following two test events in Corsica and Great Britain last year, the Suzuki World Rally Team now embarks on its first full season of world rallying with two new drivers: Toni Gardemeister from Finland and Per-Gunnar Andersson from Sweden, the reigning Junior Rally Champion with Suzuki.

The first of the 15 rounds that make up the 2008 World Rally Championship is the legendary Monte Carlo Rally, the oldest and most prestigious event of the series. Just like the roulette games played in the Principality’s famous casino, the outcome of the rally can be a lottery. Conditions can vary many times in the same stage, and it is not uncommon for a stage to start off in bright sunshine and end with snow and ice.

For the second consecutive year, the Monte Carlo Rally will start off in the town of Valence, in the Ardeche region of France, with two night stages on Thursday evening. The route takes in 12 more stages in the area on Friday and Saturday, before moving down to Monaco for four classic stages over the Col de Turini and a super special stage using part of Monaco’s famous Grand Prix circuit. The prize-giving ceremony will take place in front of Monaco’s Royal Palace on Sunday at 15:30 (CET).

As usual a wide range of conditions are expected on this year’s event, making Monte Carlo one of the most difficult rallies on the entire calendar. As well as varying weather, crews face a huge variety of road conditions: from bumpy, broken asphalt with reasonable grip to sheet ice like a skating rink. In total, the rally consists of 365.09 competitive kilometres.

Car news – Suzuki SX4 WRC n.11 (Gardemeister) and n.12 (Andersson):

This will actually be Suzuki’s seventh Monte Carlo rally, thanks to a successful Junior World Rally Championship campaign that resulted in two titles, but it is obviously the first time in the Principality with the all-new SX4 WRC.

The SX4 WRC sports a striking new white and yellow livery for 2008, and it has already racked up a number of testing kilometres in the region following a pre-Monte Carlo test at the end of last year with both drivers. Using the valuable experience gained from the two test events in 2007, the SX4 WRC features new differential and suspension settings for Monte Carlo, as well as a raft of other improvements under the skin.

Like all the other cars, the SX4 WRC will run on Pirelli’s all-new control tyres introduced for this year. These tyres are not permitted to have anti-deflation mousse, and only one type of tread pattern and compound is allowed per event, in order to reduce costs. However drivers are permitted to hand-cut the tyres to help disperse water or loose gravel, and for Monte Carlo a short stud can also be used if necessary, to find grip in icy conditions.

The entire Suzuki team is eagerly awaiting the unique challenge of Monte Carlo, and the whole 2008 season.

Driver news:

For the first time, the Suzuki World Rally Team will run two cars, as it will over the rest of the season. The 32 year-old Toni Gardemeister starts his ninth Monte Carlo Rally this year, and it is one of his favourite events. The Finn was on the podium as recently as 2006, and he has finished in the points on five occasions. His co-driver this year is Tomi Tuominen, who knows the SX4 WRC well after partnering Sebastian Lindholm on the Rally GB last year.

Gardemeister said: “It’s fantastic for me to be back in the World Championship with Suzuki, and if things go well for us in Monte Carlo I think we can come away with points. The car is still new, so we’re not going to be on the pace of the frontrunners yet, but the overall set-up and reliability is good.

The SX4 has a very compact wheelbase so it changes direction quickly, which will be very useful on the fast and twisty roads of Monte Carlo. This is always an unpredictable event, but I think that mixed conditions could actually work in our favour. I’m particularly looking forward to the Col de Turini stages on Sunday: these are unique stages and I’ve always had a very good feeling with them.”

For 27 year-old P-G Andersson, co-driven by Jonas Andersson, Monte Carlo will be his first-ever World Championship event in a World Rally Car. The young Swede has completed around 500 kilometres of testing with the SX4, so he still has to climb a steep learning curve. Nonetheless, the Monte Carlo Rally is not entirely new to him as he competed on the event in 2004 and 2005 with an Ignis Super 1600.

“I can’t wait to get started!”, said P-G. “Obviously getting to the finish and gaining more experience will be the priority for me. Going from a Super 1600 car to a World Rally Car is quite a big jump as everything happens so much quicker. It’s also important to get the pace notes right: there are some corners that you wouldn’t even bother noting in a Super 1600 car but in a World Rally Car you really feel them!”

Team news:

For the entire Suzuki team, the Monte Carlo rally opens a new chapter in the manufacturer’s prestigious history. New arrivals at the team this year include Shusuke Inagaki as technical director and Akira Kawada as team manager. Prior to the rally, the team will take part in this year’s official World Rally Championship launch on Sunday 20 January in Monte Carlo before the drivers start the recce.

Nobuhiro ‘Monster’ Tajima, principal of the Suzuki World Rally Team, commented: “As we embark on our full first season, our goal is to make steady progress by taking one step at a time. Results are obviously important, but we cannot get ahead of ourselves either. In our debut year, it’s only natural to expect a few minor problems and we’re grateful to have a driver of the calibre of Toni Gardemeister to help us improve.”

Suzuki SXBox concept vehicle World Debut at LA

Last year, American Suzuki Motor Corporation (ASMC) launched the “Suzuki LIVE Series” (LIFE VEHICLES) – a line of brand-dedicated concept vehicles specially designed for life enthusiasts, adventurers and thrill-seekers. In concert with its “Way of Life” brand proposition, which promises products for active lifestyles, and to support the launch of the all-new XL7 and SX4, ASMC introduces four all-new “Suzuki LIVE Series” vehicles for 2007, illustrating how its cars and SUVs play an integral part of consumers’ everyday life.

The vehicles, coined BaseCamp for outdoor adventure enthusiasts; Flix for film and entertainment buffs; Zuk for motorcycle and racing aficionados; and SXBox for avid gamers; will be on display at various auto shows and lifestyle events around the country.

SXBox

Built by ASC of Huntington Beach, Calif., and based on the all-new SX4 compact sport X-over (crossover), the SXBox is designed for ultimate video game enthusiasts. The Suzuki SX4 concept receives mild performance upgrades, including high-flow airbox/intake, cat-back exhaust, an enhanced suspension and multi-piston alloy brake calipers mated to cross-drilled, vented rotors.

The SXBox also is equipped with an impressive, high-performance wheel and tire package, providing gamers with the means to get to the nearest gaming competition. When parked, the SXBox’s pearl white exterior is illuminated courtesy of a green LED accent kit.

The interior design of the SXBox features an ultra-high-tech, game-inspired color scheme throughout the inside of the vehicle, including recessed LED emitters to brighten the interior of the vehicle. The SXBox is outfitted with a dashboard-integrated Xbox 360 gaming console, coupled with a close proximity digital projection system to display enthusiasts’ game of choice on the interior of the vehicle’s retractable hood, easily enabled by the push of a button. A second Xbox 360 video game system powers two separate LCD display screens in the seat backs of the SXBox to provide gaming excitement for rear passengers. For gamers who prefer to stand and play, the SXBox is equipped with a 30-inch retractable rear projection screen in the cargo area.

Adding comfort and convenience to the idea of in-car gaming, the concept vehicle features high-relief, force-feedback front seats with game-station highlights to create a snug gaming environment and four wireless controllers, including a steering-wheel-mounted gaming control for the driver. In addition, the SXBox’s multi-speaker surround audio system with wide frequency response and thundering bass provides an intense atmosphere of video game stimulation.

Suzuki SXForce Concept at SEMA

American Suzuki Motor Corp. showcases four spirited and dynamic vehicles at the 2007 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) trade show, including its never-before-seen, sportbike-inspired SXForce LIVE vehicle based on the all-new 2008 four-door SX4 Sport. A vehicle designed for four-wheel and two-wheel tuner enthusiasts, SXForce communicates Suzuki's "Way of Life" brand philosophy as a company that builds fun-to-operate vehicles, from its widely recognized and high-performance motorcycles to its exciting and versatile cars and SUVs.

To further demonstrate the company's bold and adventurous DNA, Suzuki displays its SX4 WRC car and rugged Grand Vitara Dune LIVE vehicle – two Suzuki machines designed for ultimate off-road performance. In addition, Suzuki offers aftermarket enthusiasts a sneak preview of a number of performance-based concept accessories — specifically developed for this year's show — and an array of style-enhancing Genuine Suzuki Accessories for its 2008 five-door SX4 Crossover.

"Suzuki always looks forward to SEMA because of its upbeat and somewhat irreverent energy," said Gene Brown, vice president of marketing and PR, American Suzuki Automotive Operations. "The overall enthusiasm for cars and for life that underlies the entire event meshes perfectly with our brand philosophy and parallels the passion infused into the concepts we have on display this year and the vehicles currently in our showrooms."

SXForce

With the arrival of the 2008 SX4 Sport, Suzuki expands its highly popular and media-acclaimed Suzuki LIVE Series (LIFESTYLE VEHICLES) – a line of brand-dedicated concept vehicles specially designed for life enthusiasts, adventurers and thrill-seekers.

Reinforcing the link between the company's rich motorcycle heritage and versatile line of fun-to-drive automobiles, Suzuki introduces the SXForce, a sportbike-inspired concept based on the on the all-new 2008 SX4 Sport. Designed and built by Road Race Motorsports of Santa Fe Springs, Calif., the SXForce boasts a powerful 250-horsepower, 2.0-liter, turbocharged engine matched to a five-speed manual transmission.

The exterior shell of the SX4 Sport has been modified to be eye-catching to both four-wheel and two-wheel enthusiasts. It features a striking blend of carbon fiber, Flash Pearl White and Orange Metallic paint and showcases a number of performance-based automotive parts and stunning motorcycle accents, including sportbike-style side rearview mirrors and dual exhaust, also found on the championship-winning GSX-R1000.

While the SXForce is sure to be a showstopper on display, it was designed to look even better on the road. The fully drivable, track-tested SX4 Sport concept receives several performance enhancements, including a fully tuned performance suspension system, F1-style outlet gills to help underhood air flow, tailored rear bodywork with carbon fiber diffuser, Carbontrix rear wing, Tein coilover suspension height and damper setup, and reinforced structure to further enhance rigidity for optimal handling. The SXForce is outfitted with 18-inch Enkei racing wheels and a staggered high-performance Toyo T1-R tire package - 225/45-18 in the front and 235/40-18 in the rear. It also is equipped with Rotora six-piston calipers with two-piece 355mm rotors for sportbike stopping power.

The motorcycle theme continues inside the SXForce, beginning with suede and leather seats and interior appointments, mimicking sportbike leathers. Other interior enhancements include motorcycle instrument cluster and controls, roof air intake for optimal breathing and a revised track-themed interior, featuring carbon fiber components and accents. Engine vitals are monitored via a Zeitronix ZT-2 wideband data logger. All vital engine parameters are logged on a laptop and viewed on the ZT-2 gauge mounted on the Hayabusa handlebars. The SXForce is equipped with an integrated Garmin navigation system, and its rear seats have been removed and replaced by a high-output Rockford-Fosgate audio system.

SX4 WRC

With its sports-minded heritage, coupled with a passion to excel in the world's most competitive venues, Suzuki Auto drives toward another motorsports challenge with its entry in the World Rally Championship (WRC).

Derived from the five-door SX4 Crossover, a prototype model of the SX4 WRC was first unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in February 2006. Developed as a driver-friendly World Rally Car offering high controllability under a wide range of rally conditions, this creation by Suzuki Sport, Suzuki's motorsports division, has involved an extensive testing program on many different types of surfaces. As a supplement to the testing, Suzuki Sport chose two events in 2007, the Rallye de France and the Wales Rally GB, to closely represent the majority of surface types. The Rallye de France is known as one of the most challenging tarmac events, and the Wales Rally GB, held later in the year, is well regarded for similar reasons.

The SX4 WRC boasts a 2.0-liter turbocharged J20 engine with full-time 4WD drivetrain and a five-speed sequential gearbox. The vehicle's 1,997 cc engine delivers 320 brake horsepower between 4,000 and 4,500 rpm, along with a maximum torque of 590 N-m (435 lb.-ft.) at 3,500 rpm.

The SX4 WRC's powertrain features a carbon three-disc clutch, electronically controlled center differential and mechanical front and rear differentials. Its well-balanced chassis and rigid structure allow the front and rear MacPherson struts with coil springs work to their full potential, and its Reiger shocks deliver dynamic, responsive handling. For tarmac, the vehicle is fitted with 20/65-18 tires fitted on 8X18-inch wheels. On gravel, 17/65-15 rubber is mounted to 7X15-inch wheels.

The SX4 WRC sits on a wheelbase of 2,500mm, stands 1,450mm high and weighs 1,230 kg (the minimum authorized). All specs reflect those of the final-phase development-test vehicle and are not necessarily indicative of the 2008 entry. As noted by Nobuhiro Tajima, vice president of Suzuki Sport, the endeavor is still in the early stages of development, including the engine, transmission and suspension.

The WRC effort builds on Suzuki's outstanding success in the JWRC, where the Swift Super 1600 has enjoyed an excellent record, creating even more excitement and anticipation in 2008.

Grand Vitara Dune

First introduced at the 2005 SEMA Show, the Grand Vitara Dune is designed for off-road enthusiasts who demand off-road capabilities. Well-equipped with 11.5 inches of minimum ground clearance and a towing capacity of 3,000 lbs., the Dune provides enough muscle to add a huge dose of exhilaration to any weekend. This Grand Vitara concept also features off-road skid plates, fender flares, wear-reducing cladding and running boards, all dressed in lightning yellow paint to match the color scheme of Suzuki ATVs. Roomy on the inside, the five-passenger Dune features a rear off-road gear storage and "mobile garage" work station, ideal for last-minute adjustments. The Dune also is equipped with a built-in GPS and navigation system.

SX4 Crossover Accessories

To complement Suzuki's versatile, stylish product line, the company offers an array of Genuine Suzuki Accessories - a line of style-enhancing trim packages and accessories designed to personalize Suzuki cars and SUVs sold in the United States. Suzuki showcases a number of pre-production performance-enhancing parts and interior and exterior accessories for the sporty SX4 Crossover.

Concept Accessories:

• Cat back Exhaust – Features stainless steel design, improves horsepower and offers deep performance tone that remains 50 state "sound level legal."

• Cold Air Intake – Intake system improves horsepower and offers performance pitch.

• Sport Suspension – Lowers ride height (approx. 1.5 inches) for a firmer ride.

• Alloy Wheels – Custom-designed 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels, available in a chrome finish or machined surface with black paint. Includes chrome lug nuts and Suzuki center cap.

Genuine Suzuki Accessories:

• Rear Spoiler – Rally-inspired rear deck spoiler is molded in sturdy, lightweight polyurethane and is available color-matched to the SX4 Crossover.

• Hood Mask – Custom-fit hood mask made of durable vinyl and soft fleece backing helps protect the front of the SX4 Crossover from damage caused by minor road debris.

• Silver Finish Front Grille – Front grille replaces original black version and matches the lower bumper trim on the SX4 Crossover.

• Carbon Fiber Dash Trim (Red) – Dash trim accents made of real carbon-fiber weave material with an exterior-grade urethane topcoat and screened SX4 logo are available in three different colors to coordinate or contrast with the interior of the SX4 Crossover. Trim fits both automatic and manual transmission models.

• Carbon Fiber Door Sill Trim (Red) – Door sill accents made of real carbon-fiber weave material with an exterior-grade urethane topcoat and screened SX4 logo are available in three different carbon-fiber weave colors or a brushed aluminum finish to coordinate or contrast with the interior of the SX4 Crossover.

• Billet Sport Pedals – Sport pedal set, including dead pedal, is made of lightweight aluminum and non-slip rubber inserts, offering a highly polished look with engraved Suzuki logo.

• Billet Battery Tie Down & Billet Oil Cap (Sold as a package) – Highly polished aluminum battery tie down and oil filler cap with engraved Suzuki logo to dress up your engine bay.

• Blueconnect®, Bluetooth Phone System – Speaker- and microphone-integrated communication system that offers wireless interaction with any bluetooth-compatible cell phone, allowing dialing and hands-free communication with the touch of a button. Installation required (for non-sunroof models only).

• Rear Bumper Protector – Adhesive-backed applique to help protect from minor nicks and scratches.