Suzuki says its planning to introduce its "third phase," which we presume means setting itself apart from other carmakers with unique design. It'll happen at the Frankfurt auto show, where the Suz will unveil a concept car called Kizashi. It suggests a new model expected to show up early next decade and reaching a world audience. The company's plans for world domination having come up short in the past, we expect this time they've also got some sort of secret weapon hidden in a volcano. Who will save us?
Press Release:
Suzuki will present an eye-catching stand with a number of world premieres at the 62nd International Motor Show in Frankfurt from September 13 - 23.
The newly developed Splash compact car represents the fourth world strategic model from Suzuki in just three years. Like its predecessors, Swift, Grand Vitara and SX4, Splash is orientated strongly towards the European design style, which continues Suzuki's worldwide strategy.
A further highpoint on the Frankfurt stand will be the introduction of the Kizashi concept vehicle. This breakthrough into the middle class segment is a sign from the 12th largest automobile producer worldwide of the important step from compact and four-wheel drive specialists into a complete production line-up.
The third star of the Suzuki stand will be the World Rally Championship version of the SX4, which will make an appearance in Frankfurt before facing its first competition test in the middle of October at the "Rallye de France".
Suzuki Splash: The fresh stylish family car
The first phase of the new world strategy was implemented with the focus on 'Sporty', a philosophy that resulted in great success with the launch of Swift, Grand Vitara and SX4. The new Splash represents the second phase for Suzuki.
Representing a completely new development of the compact car, the Splash represents driving fun for the family with a combination of fresh design and great driving dynamics.
On sale in Europe in 2008, the 3700 mm long Splash will be available with a choice of three engines; a three-cylinder 1.0-litre (48 kW), a 1.2-litre four-cylinder (63 kW) and a 1.3-litre DDiS turbo-diesel (55 kW) with an optional diesel particulate filter.
Complying with the Euro-4 emissions standard, CO2 emissions for the five-speed manual transmission vary between just 120 and 140 g/km.
Safety remains a paramount feature in the Splash, which comes loaded with a host of standard features including anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic brake-force distribution system (EBD). Electronic stability program (ESP®) and six airbags (dual front airbags, dual seat-side airbags, dual curtain airbags) will be equipped on certain models.
The Kizashi concept: Breakthrough into the mid-sized segment
Full of energy, flexible and emotionally appealing; a perfect description of the Suzuki Kizashi concept car, which will make its world debut at Frankfurt. Literally meaning 'prelude', the Kizashi represents the third phase of Suzuki's world strategy.
The theme for this third phase is 'Status', with the Kizashi guiding the way to a new direction for Suzuki, representing the continued upward breakthrough of Suzuki and its ability to offer a wider range of vehicles to customers.
Suzuki Motorsport: SX4 WRC pilots at the Frankfurt Motor Show
It's finally here: at the Frankfurt Motor Show, Suzuki will reveal the team who will pilot the SX4 which will compete in the 2008 World Rally Championship.
Led by Suzuki motorsport legend Nobuhiro 'Monster' Tajima, the WRC SX4 has undergone a gruelling testing regime this year and will make its competitive debut in October at the Rallye de France in Corsica as part of the preparation for the 2008 season.
The WRC SX4 adds another chapter to Suzuki's 98-year history, with a strong motorsport heritage and a host of world champions including Barry Sheene, Kevin Schwantz and Ricky Carmichael.
Suzuki has become a leading player in the JWRC in recent years, and the Swift Super Sport has dominated the 2007 season to date.