Autoblog

Tokyo 2009: Suzuki previews three fuel cell concepts

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 09:59:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, Tokyo Motor Show, Hatchback, Suzuki, Motorcycle, Electric

In addition to the plug-in series hybrid version of the Swift subcompact hatchback that Suzuki will display at the upcoming Tokyo Motor Show, the Japanese company will also be bringing along three separate concepts powered by fuel cells.

First up is the SX4-FCV, which uses an 80 kW hydrogen fuel cell stack supplied by longtime partner GM paired with a Suzuki-designed hydrogen storage tank that compresses the gas at 10,000 psi. A lightweight capacitor reportedly takes the place of the more common battery pack and helps smooth out the flow of electrons to the 68 kW electric motor and aids in regenerative braking. Road testing is currently underway of the SX4-FCV in Japan.

Next on the list is a version of Suzuki's popular Burgman scooter that's propelled by an electric motor that gets its power from a small hydrogen fuel cell from Intelligent Energy and the first 700-bar storage tank in the motorcycle world. The final fuel cell-powered concept from Suzuki is a personal mobility vehicle called the MIO that uses easily replaceable methanol fuel cell cartridges in lieu of batteries that should theoretically allow for unlimited range. Check out all three concepts in our gallery below and hit the jump for the press release.

Gallery: Tokyo 2009: Suzuki Fuel Cell Concepts

Continue reading Tokyo 2009: Suzuki previews three fuel cell concepts

Tokyo 2009: Suzuki previews three fuel cell concepts originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 07 Oct 2009 09:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2010 Suzuki SX4 SportBack takes more to the streets, less to the fields

Chris Paukert — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 13:31:00 EST

Filed under: Budget, Hatchback, Suzuki

2010 Suzuki SX4 SportBack - Click above for high-res image gallery

We've praised Suzuki's SX4 Crossover in these pages before. With its quasi-softroader abilities, surprisingly direct steering, segment-exclusive all-wheel drive and generous equipment levels, the cheap n' cheerful hatchback has carved out a unique niche for itself in the U.S. marketplace. What it has always needed, however, was a bit more power and better fuel economy.

For 2010, Suzuki has given it exactly that - but only just. An all-new, 16-valve, 2.0-liter four-cylinder has taken up residence under the hood, and it now achieves 150 horsepower (@ 6,200 rpm) and 140 pound-feet of torque (@ 3,500 rpm). Those figures represent increases of 7 hp and 4 lb-ft of torque, increases that we presume would be difficult for most drivers to detect without other changes to go along with them. Thankfully, Suzuki has also spent a few shekels on the SX4's gearbox range, and the standard-fit manual transmission gains an extra ratio (for a total of six), while the three-pedal averse will get a new paddleshift CVT - both units with rejiggered ratios to improve acceleration times as well as mileage scores. About that - Suzuki claims the SportBack manual will get 22 mpg city/30 highway, while the CVT will net 23/30. While these figures represent improvements, they still trail classmates like the Honda Fit and Chevrolet Aveo, though the Suzuki does offer more power.

On the outside, the SportBack has been dropped onto 17-inch, 50-series Dunlops, with a lowered, KYB-controlled suspension setup, and there's a new bumper and grille to go along with the car's revamped aero package that includes new side skirts, a rather meek front spoiler, and a tweaked rear spoiler. Interestingly, Suzuki claims that the 2010 alterations actually make the SportBack perform better than its own well-regarded Swift in various handling disciplines, including steering and yaw performance, skidpad, as well as braking. Light-duty off-roaders take note - the SportBack is really just a conventional compact, as it isn't available with all-wheel drive like its Crossover stablemate.

Inside, the Sportback gets an updated navi system that includes 3D graphics, lane guidance, as well as collateral information like weather mapping and airline arrivals/departures, and there's a new instrument cluster as well.

No word yet on pricing, but by way of guidance, the 2009 model-year SX4 Crossover (with its extra pair of driven wheels) commands $16,099. You can check out the full press release after the jump and the high-res gallery below.

Gallery: 2010 Suzuki SX4 SportBack

[Source: Suzuki]

Continue reading 2010 Suzuki SX4 SportBack takes more to the streets, less to the fields

2010 Suzuki SX4 SportBack takes more to the streets, less to the fields originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 24 Aug 2009 13:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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REPORT: 2010 Suzuki SX4 to gain front-drive SportBack trim, power boost

Chris Shunk — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 10:30:00 EST

Filed under: Crossover, Hatchback, Suzuki

Suzuki SX4 Crossover - Click above for high-res image gallery

Suzuki's upstart SX4 Crossover has continually surprised and delighted the automotive press with perky driving dynamics and nifty features like standard pop-up navigation. While we enjoyed the SX4 Sport we tested last year, we prefer the usability and all-wheel drive capability of the five door Crossover. AWD does add cost to the modestly priced SX4, though, and the added weight and parasitic drag have a negative impact on fuel economy.

Suzuki is reportedly further addressing that situation for the 2010 model year, as it is planning a front-drive SX4 hatch with SportBack trim. The front-drive SportBack, available only in Touring trim, will lose the Crossover's roof rack while gaining the sporty demeanor and lower ride height of the sedan.The Car Connection says that Suzuki will also raise the power output of the SX4's 2.0-liter engine across the range, bringing the stallion tally to 150. Without all-wheel drive, the SX4 SportBack will be lighter and more efficient, and without a roof rack, sitting lower to the ground, it figures to be more aerodynamic, too.

[Source: The Car Connection]

REPORT: 2010 Suzuki SX4 to gain front-drive SportBack trim, power boost originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 15 Jul 2009 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The Suzuki Method: SX4 S2000 in the works for WRC comeback?

Noah Joseph — Tue, 21 Apr 2009 06:59:00 EST

Filed under: Motorsports, Suzuki

Suzuki SX4 WRC - Click above for a hi-res gallery

It's only been four months since Suzuki announced it was leaving the World Rally Championship, but reports are already surfacing about its comeback. Suzuki's decision came amidst a whole slew of similar announcements, primarily from Japanese automakers, to cancel their racing programs. Honda pulled out of F1, Subaru out of the WRC, Mitsubishi out of rally raids... even Kawasaki dropped their motorbike team. But while Honda is undoubtedly kicking itself for leaving the grand prix scene one season too early, it could be Suzuki that gets back into the race first.

The reports come from the mouth of Urmo Aava, one of Suzuki's most valued rally drivers. Since the Japanese carmaker withdrew from the top-level series, he's been helping the junior team with set-up for the Suzuki Swift S1600, but the planned switch next season to the more production-car-based S2000 formula in the top-tier WRC could open the door to more automakers like Suzuki coming back to the fold, or entering for the first time. Like the one which Suzuki was campaigning until last season (pictured above), the new car would be based on the SX4, but cost less to campaign. For his part, Aava realizes he'd need to bring in his own sponsorship cash to make it happen, but if it does, Suzuki could be kickin' gravel and jumping hills by 2011. Thanks to Eralp for the tip!

Gallery: Suzuki SX4 WRC

[Source: RallyBuzz]

The Suzuki Method: SX4 S2000 in the works for WRC comeback? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 21 Apr 2009 06:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Review: 2008 Suzuki SX4 Sport with TRIP

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 11:58:00 EST

Filed under: In the Autoblog Garage, Budget, Sedan, Suzuki

2008 Suzuki SX4 Sport with TRIP - Click above for high-res image gallery

For the 2009 model year, Suzuki will begin offering navigation as standard equipment on all SX4 Sport models. Starting at a buck under 16K, the new 'Zook is the cheapest car in America so equipped, and that news was very well received by the media and car shoppers alike. In fact, so positive was the response, the decision was made to begin offering the GPS navigation about six months early as part of the TRIP package. We were intrigued by the idea of a low-cost commuter car coming standard with such a desirable feature, so we decided to procure one such TRIP-equipped 2008.5 SX4 Sport for testing. Is the navigation nothing more than a gimmick to get you into a sub-standard car, or does the SX4 have more going for it than just being well equipped? Read on to find out.

Gallery: Review: 2008 Suzuki SX4 Sport with TRIP

Continue reading Review: 2008 Suzuki SX4 Sport with TRIP

Review: 2008 Suzuki SX4 Sport with TRIP originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 29 Oct 2008 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2009 Suzuki SX4 getting nav system as standard equipment

Alex Nunez — Sat, 26 Apr 2008 09:33:00 EST

Filed under: Gadgets, Sedan, Etc., Hatchback, Suzuki

Click image to enlarge

Integrated nav systems are cash cows for the automakers. We've discussed this here before. While you can run to the local Target and buy a perfectly useful portable unit for around two-hundred bucks, clicking the nav checkbox on a car or truck's option sheet will probably run you ten times as much. That's painful. For the 2009 model year, however, Suzuki's looking to give shoppers some relief by making touchscreen nav standard equipment in the four-door SX4 Sport and front-wheel-drive SX4 crossover (the enclosed PR makes no mention of the 4WD crossover, but we're assuming that it also benefits from this). This makes Suzuki the first automaker to offer the feature as standard equipment in a sub-$16,000 vehicle. What a novel concept: using desirable equipment as the carrot instead of the stick.

The flip-up unit, supplied by Garmin and dubbed "T.R.I.P", also delivers Bluetooth connectivity, features live traffic info, helps locate the lowest gas prices, and is pre-loaded with a number of points of interest. The automaker is even launching a social networking-type website where owners can upload and share their favorite routes and places to go. Will standard nav help Suzuki win over new customers? It sure isn't going to hurt. Given that the technology has dropped in price so precipitously, it's probably not even costing Suzuki too much in the grand scheme of things. And if the presence of that nav unit gets some fence-sitting new car shoppers to write out a check for at least $16,000, it's probably worth whatever it cost to integrate it into the base package. Maybe Suzuki's onto something.

[Source: Suzuki]

Continue reading 2009 Suzuki SX4 getting nav system as standard equipment

2009 Suzuki SX4 getting nav system as standard equipment originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 26 Apr 2008 09:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Suzuki SX4t: "t" is for turbo, courtesy of Road Race Motorsports

Damon Lavrinc — Tue, 22 Apr 2008 18:57:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Tuners, Crossover, Hatchback, Suzuki

Click above for a high-res gallery fo the Suzuki SX4t.

When Suzuki launched the SX4, we couldn't help thinking that the oddly shaped hatch had some aftermarket potential. Suzuki seemed to think the same thing and tapped Road Race Motorsports, the renowned SoCal tuning firm, to create a one-off concept for the Chicago Auto Show. Road Race decided that it could do better than just some wheels, brakes, a body kit and a few engine mods, so its created the SX4t, a turbocharged version of the all-wheel-drive hatch that could mark the beginning of Suzuki's ascendancy into the aftermarket.

Road Race fitted a Mitsubishi 16G GT3 turbocharger onto the 2.0-liter four-pot, which delivers seven pounds of boost and increases output to 221 hp and 208 lb.-ft. of torque, a substantial bump over the stock mill's 143 hp and 136 lb.-ft. of torque. According to Suzuki, that should drop 0-60 times to under seven seconds when equipped with the five-speed manual.

More impressive, however, is that Suzuki is giving Road Race its blessing and that could mean that the turbo upgrade, along with plenty of other go-fast bits, could be available from your local Suzuki dealership. The cost of the turbo kit, with all the necessary plumbing, will come in at relatively steep $5,400 when it goes on sale this June. Suzuki estimates that the installation would run between $1,100 and $1,200 at the dealership, but wouldn't say if fitting the kit would affect the seven-year/100,000 factory warranty on the powertrain. While dropping close to $10-grand on an SX4 for wheels, brakes and engine mods might be a tough pill to swallow, it will have to suffice for Suzuki enthusiasts hoping that the automaker would release a rally-inspired SX4.

Hit the jump for the full press release from Suzuki.

Gallery: Suzuki SX4t

Continue reading Suzuki SX4t: "t" is for turbo, courtesy of Road Race Motorsports

Suzuki SX4t: "t" is for turbo, courtesy of Road Race Motorsports originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 22 Apr 2008 18:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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LA 2007: Surf's up! Suzuki SX4 Makai concept

Damon Lavrinc — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 15:19:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, LA Auto Show, Convertible, Suzuki

Click above image for high-res gallery of the Suzuki SX4 Makai concept

Suzuki was obviously trying to tap into the So. Cal. culture of the LA Auto Show when it tasked Andry Specialty Vehicles to create the SX4-based Makai concept. After lopping off the roof, shaving the door handles and adding a NACA-like duct in the hood, they sprayed down the sedan in orange paint and accented it with the silver rollover hoop that provides another mounting point to attach a set of surfboards. LED running lights add some subtle flavor and 19-inch CEC wheels fill the widened wheel arches that frame four-wheel disc brakes with Rotora calipers.

Although the exterior appointments are cool enough, our favorite feature is inside. Instead of fitting the concept seats - normally an ergonomic disaster - it looks like Suzuki made a trek to their corporate pool, plucked the chairs from around the frosted glass table and welded them inside. The results are equal parts style and functionality that give soaking surfers a place to rest without mucking up the standard cloth seats. It certainly won't score any points in the safety department (nor will the lack of seatbelts), but we'll give them a 6.2 for originality.

Gallery: Suzuki SX4 Makai concept

Continue reading LA 2007: Surf's up! Suzuki SX4 Makai concept

LA 2007: Surf's up! Suzuki SX4 Makai concept originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 15 Nov 2007 15:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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SEMA 2007: Suzuki SXForce

Alex Nunez — Tue, 30 Oct 2007 00:35:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Concept Cars, SEMA Show, Sedan, Performance, Suzuki

***Update: Live pics from Las Vegas added to gallery***

Click image for high-res gallery including new live shots from SEMA by Frank Filipponio

Suzuki's trotting out a new concept for SEMA, and it's based on the new SX4 Sport. Why the SX4 sedan gets the sport moniker over the 5-door will never make sense to us, but we digress. The SXForce is a real driver that's underpinned by a new sport suspension and powered by a 255-horsepower turbo four mated to a 5-speed manual.That's a significant step up from the 143 HP stock unit, which is not at all exciting by comparison. Wild bodywork intended to tie the car into Suzuki's sportbike heritage adorns the SXForce, and while motorcycles don't immediately leap to mind upon seeing it, we won't argue that it's certainly different-looking. In this regard, we don't think the SX4 sedan's notchback look does the concept any favors, as that NASCAR Car of Tomorrow rear end looks somewhat ungainly compared to the profoundly aggressive nose. Orange-trimmed black Enkei wheels fill the cutouts, and an adjustable rear spoiler hangs off the trunklid.

Follow the jump for more, plus the official press release.

[Source: Suzuki]

Gallery: SEMA 2007: Suzuki SXForce

Continue reading SEMA 2007: Suzuki SXForce

SEMA 2007: Suzuki SXForce originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 30 Oct 2007 00:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Don't believe the hype: Suzuki won't be producing roadgoing rally-inspired SX4

Damon Lavrinc — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 16:33:00 EST

Filed under: Motorsports, Hatchback, Suzuki

A number of rumors began circulating the Web yesterday that contend Suzuki is in the process of building a homologation special out of its SX4 AWD hatch to take on the WRXs of the world. The idea was that Suzuki would enlist some of the technology derived from its WRC contender and it would form the basis of an "SX4 Sport," likely packing a 200+ HP turbocharged motor, along with upgraded brakes and a suspension tuned by rally savant Nobuhiro Tajima.

We took all this with a grain of salt when it originally swirled around the 'Net, and after some leg work by our friends over at Winding Road it turns out that the "Sport" is purely vaporware. According to a Suzuki spokesperson, the fact that the SX4 is already in production negates the need for a homologation version since the five-door hatch already satisfies the requirements for competition.

That all said, we'd still love to see Suzuki combine some of its rally-inspired tech with its motorcycle background, and with the new Subaru WRX and the rumored Ralliart version of the Mitsubishi Lancer coming to market, it would face some stiff competition for the hearts and minds of enthusiasts.

[Source: Winding Road]

Gallery: Suzuki SX4 WRC

Don't believe the hype: Suzuki won't be producing roadgoing rally-inspired SX4 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 25 Sep 2007 16:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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New WRC regulations might push Suzuki's SX4 out

Damon Lavrinc — Wed, 29 Aug 2007 08:01:00 EST

Filed under: Motorsports, Hatchback, Suzuki

Click the image above for high-res shots of Suzuki's WRC contender.

Suzuki's newest entrant into the WRC may never grace the gravel if changes in car regulations take place earlier than anticipated. Originally, the new vehicle regulations changes were to take effect in 2012 under the World Rallies Commission's "Vision for 2012" plan. That's up in the air, however, as a competing plan targeted at 2009 would make WRC incorporate modified Super 2000 regs that retain turbocharging and 4WD, while still embracing simplified technology. (The standard S2K regs prohibit electronic driving aids in cars.) Using a revised flavor of Super 2000 might be very attractive to the WRC teams, as the simpler tech could potentially lower operating costs.

Nobuhiro "Monster" Tajima, head of Suzuki Sport, recently sat down with the automaker's senior execs to mull over the possibility of nixing the SX4's planned entry in October's Corsica rally. According to Autoweek, Tajima even questioned the development of a new car at all "when it will be quite useless in two years time."

[Source: Autoweek]

Gallery: Suzuki SX4 WRC

New WRC regulations might push Suzuki's SX4 out originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 29 Aug 2007 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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In the Autoblog Garage: 2007 Suzuki SX4

Chris Tutor — Mon, 27 Aug 2007 11:58:00 EST

Filed under: In the Autoblog Garage, Suzuki

It's not easy these days to find a brand new car for less than $15,000, and if you're looking for all-wheel drive with that budget, your choices are severely limited. In fact, Suzuki says the 2007 SX4 is the least expensive all-wheel-drive vehicle for sale in the U.S., coming in a buck less than $15,000 with a manual transmission. That's the good news.

Bad news? Suzuki wants you to think of this as a competitor to Honda's Fit and Nissan's Versa, but it ain't quite there yet. Honda's interior quality and handling easily trump the Suzuki's four-wheel power. The Honda and Nissan both win on fuel economy and base price. But then, you still don't have the SX4's all-wheel pull.

Click through to continue reading our take on the SX4.

Gallery: 2007 Suzuki SX4

Continue reading In the Autoblog Garage: 2007 Suzuki SX4

In the Autoblog Garage: 2007 Suzuki SX4 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 27 Aug 2007 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Suzuki Forenza, Reno get the boot after '08, Swift convertible in the works

Damon Lavrinc — Mon, 20 Aug 2007 09:04:00 EST

Filed under: Budget, Sedan, Hatchback, Suzuki

In memoriam: the Suzuki Forenza and its brother, the Reno, will shuffle off this mortal coil after 2008. Oh, how we barely knew thee - but we're not surprised.

Both vehicles have seen a dip in sales this year, and with the SX4's numbers up over 35-percent for 2007, and a sedan version due out in October, Suzuki obviously had too many vehicles vying for the same buyers.

According to an un-named source quoted by Automotive News, the SX4's market share will continue to expand, with the aforementioned sedan as well as a hatchback model supposedly due in 2009. As for Suzuki's sub-compact offering, we can still expect the Swift to arrive on U.S. shores in 2010, packing a more performance-oriented punch than the SX4, with a convertible version due out sometime afterwards.

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]

Suzuki Forenza, Reno get the boot after '08, Swift convertible in the works originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 20 Aug 2007 09:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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New York Auto Show: Suzuki SX4 sedan unveiled

Eric Bryant — Thu, 05 Apr 2007 14:23:00 EST

Filed under: New York Auto Show, Sedan, Suzuki

click above image to view a high-res gallery of thew new Suzuki SX4 sedan

Suzuki has been undergoing a revival of sorts lately, and the company rolled out a four-door version of its SX4 today as the first of four new product introductions that are intended to keep the momentum building.

It's not usual to hear a multi-disipline "motor company" invoking the name of other products when talking about their automotive line-ups, but Suzuki was fearless in claiming that it's churning out cars that are the equal of the ferocious Hayabusa and GSX-R1000. We're not quite sure that's the case, as the 2.0L inline-four in the SX4 makes a couple dozen fewer ponies than the aforementioned two-wheelers, but indeed the new compact sedan seems to have been injected with a bit of sportbike DNA. Seventeen inch wheels are standard, as is a 10mm drop in ride height (as compared to its crossover brethern). Dampers from KYB - a name that should be familiar to motorcyclists - are fitted at each corner, and Suzuki claims that the SX4 sedan has handling metrics equal to or better than the highly-acclaimed European Swift.

Suzuki acknowledged that it will not be all things to all people; the good news is that young enthusiasts seem to be its target audience.

Hit up the gallery for live and stock shots of Suzuki's newest family member, the press release is after the jump, and don't forget that there's a lot more New York Auto Show coverage where that came from.

Gallery: 2008 Suzuki SX4 Sedan

Continue reading New York Auto Show: Suzuki SX4 sedan unveiled

New York Auto Show: Suzuki SX4 sedan unveiled originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Apr 2007 14:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Suzuki at Geneva

Alex Nunez — Sun, 11 Mar 2007 14:38:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Geneva Motor Show, Hatchback, Suzuki

Click image for a gallery of Suzuki's offerings at Geneva

Geneva was a quiet show for Suzuki, as the most impactful vehicle on display, the SX4 sedan, is something we've all seen already. Still, we have to say that as hatchbacks-turned-notchbacks go, we like the way the 4-door looks with its new protruding booty. The SX4 sedan gets the same powerplant as its hatchback brother, but will be offered in a front-wheel-drive config as well. Generally, sedan versions of hatchbacks don't fare so well in the looks department (see Nissan Versa), but between this new Suzuki and the recently-introduced Astra four-door, there's reason to be optimistic that the days of the ugly small sedan are waning. We'll wait and see.

Among the vehicles joining the SX4-door on the stand was the WRC Concept version of the hatch, a Swift Group N rally car, and the Lambo-doored Swift Sport seen above.

Gallery: Suzuki at Geneva

Suzuki at Geneva originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 11 Mar 2007 14:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Geneva Preview: Suzuki releases official shots of SX4 sedan

John Neff — Fri, 16 Feb 2007 13:27:00 EST

Filed under: Budget, Geneva Motor Show, Suzuki

click above image to view a pair of high-res shots showing the Suzuki SX4 Sedan

Early next month, Suzuki will be showing off the sedan version of its SX4 mini-SUV at the Geneva Motor Show. Pictures of the new four-door have been released, and we can see that it's hardly different from the car spied on public roads back in September. The SX4 sedan will be front-wheel drive only, unlike the SX4 on sale now. International versions will be powered by a 1.6L four-cylinder making 107 hp, though models destined for the U.S. market will likely get a more potent powerplant. Motor Authority is reporting we may get a V6, but we find packing a V6 in that tiny package to be highly unlikely. We expect Suzuki to use the same 143-hp, 2.0L four-cylinder currently used in the SX4. There will reportedly also be an SX4 Sedan Sport Concept on display in Geneva with a 2.0L motor and 17-inch wheels.

Suzuki's been on a roll lately, having reached its goal last year of 100,000 vehicles sold in the U.S. thanks to some pretty popular SUVs. Its lineup, however, still has stinkers that need to be replaced. The SX4 Sedan will help make the automaker's entry level offerings more enticing. Though the tiny Aerio does have some fans, we'd take the more robust SX4 lineup anyday.
[Source: Motor Authority]

Gallery: Suzuki SX4 Sedan

Geneva Preview: Suzuki releases official shots of SX4 sedan originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 16 Feb 2007 13:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Cobra Technology & Lifestyle gears up the Suzuki SX4

Alex Nunez — Mon, 05 Feb 2007 19:42:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Europe, Hatchback, Suzuki

Click image for mini-gallery

We last saw Cobra Technology & Lifestyle when they introduced a set of accessories for the Nissan Qashquai, and the next ride they've decided to focus their attention on is the Suzuki SX4. The SX4 is a nifty-looking little hatchback, and it offers AWD and rugged-ish, allroad-y looks at a reasonable price. Despite the fact that the car's power drives all four of its wheels, we never really looked at it as a vehicle that called for SUV-style accessorization. Other people may have a different opinion though, and for them, Cobra has the gear to make it happen.

They now offer a front grille guard that meets European pedestrian safety standards. As odd as it may look on the hatchback, it's probably easier to rationalize than the available tubular side steps, which are not necessary. We're talking about a car here, not Bigfoot.

Follow the jump for Cobra's press release. High-res shots are in the 2-photo mini-gallery as well. We'll be keeping an eye for the possible appearance of the SX-4 sedan at the 2007 Chicago Auto Show this week.

[Source: Cobra Technology & Lifestyle]

Gallery: Cobra Technology & Lifestyle Suzuki SX4

Continue reading Cobra Technology & Lifestyle gears up the Suzuki SX4

Cobra Technology & Lifestyle gears up the Suzuki SX4 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 05 Feb 2007 19:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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LA Auto Show: Suzuki SXBox Concept

Alex Nunez — Wed, 29 Nov 2006 14:02:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, Gadgets, LA Auto Show, Budget, Etc., Suzuki

Despite not having a press conference scheduled during the 2006 LA Auto Show, Suzuki "unveiled" (i.e. had sitting out when the show opened) the SXBox Concept, an SX4 modified with enough video game equipment to make any card-carrying gamer weep. The car features a dashboard integrated XBox 360 that pumps its arcade goodness through a projector mounted in place of the rearview mirror. Driver and passenger can then play Forza on the inside of the front-hinged hood that swings up to catch the projector's high-def digital entertainment. Back seat passengers get their own XBox 360, but are forced to play on two roof-mounted LCDs. A full stereo with amps, woofers and the whole bit erase any trunk space, along with an additional 30-inch LCD screen for Halo 2 tailgate parties off the back bumper. The car has also been upgraded with go-fast hardware in the form of a high-flow air intake, cat-back exhaust, sport suspension and better brakes to hasten getaways with your backseat full of stolen XBox consoles.

More shots of the SXBox Concept are hiding out after the jump, along with Suzuki's full press release.

[Source: Suzuki]

Continue reading LA Auto Show: Suzuki SXBox Concept

LA Auto Show: Suzuki SXBox Concept originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 29 Nov 2006 14:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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SEMA: Suzuki shows off XL7 BaseCamp, 300HP SX4 "Zuk" concepts

Alex Nunez — Tue, 31 Oct 2006 17:15:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Concept Cars, SEMA Show, Crossover, Hatchback, Suzuki

UPDATE: Live shots from SEMA show added

At SEMA, Suzuki has unveiled their latest "Suzuki LIVE Series" concept vehicles. In the past, the series has treated us to goodness like a 357 horsepower turbocharged Grand Vitara "Blizzard," as well as other accessorized and/or modified cars such as the Forenza "Sea."

This week in Vegas, the focus is squarely on the new XL7 and SX4, two cars Suzuki is banking heavily on to dramatically increase its US sales. The XL7 is transformed into the BaseCamp concept, a metallic-finished crossover with features like a passenger-side gullwing door that provides access to a spacious, wi-fi-enabled passenger cabin. Outside, the metallic paint is augmented by titanium body cladding that flips down to create scaffolding which allows easy access to the roof, where a carrier hauls a pair of mountain bikes. Another highlight is a carbon-fiber-framed canopy that attaches to the roof to provide some protection from the elements at your campsite.

The SX4 gets a very serious injection of muscle in the form of the Zuk, a motorcycle-inspired version of Suzuki's new hatchback with 300 turbocharged, intercooled horsepower lurking underhood. Its paint scheme is borrowed from the company's line of sportbikes, and cutouts in the bodywork expose the car's inner workings, just as you'd see on a two-wheeler. Inside, the minimalist cockpit carries forward the cycle theme with a gauge cluster that recalls the GSX-R and exposed spaceframe and rollcage.

Those two are joined by another trick SX4, the race-prepped, US Touring Car Championship-compliant Thunderhill SX4 GodZUKI. This car is being developed to run in the 25 Hours of Thunderhill Endurance race. Naturally a couple of Suzukis outfitted with factory accessories are on hand as well, to generate interest in the additional baubles you can order right from your local dealership.

(More photos, press release after the jump)

[Source: American Suzuki]

Continue reading SEMA: Suzuki shows off XL7 BaseCamp, 300HP SX4 "Zuk" concepts

SEMA: Suzuki shows off XL7 BaseCamp, 300HP SX4 "Zuk" concepts originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 31 Oct 2006 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Finally! New Suzuki ads draw connection to successful bikes

Alex Nunez — Sun, 08 Oct 2006 14:42:00 EST

Filed under: Marketing/Advertising, Crossover, Hatchback, Suzuki

That Suzuki regularly achieves near-mythical levels of performance with its motorcycles is a well-established fact. The bikes are proven winners and champions on the international stage. When it comes to the company's automotive division here in the US, however, it's been a different story.

In recent years, the automaker's showrooms have been home to a rather odd and not-so-compelling mix of vehicles. Sure, there are bright spots, like the current Grand Vitara, a legitimately attractive small SUV. To a lesser extent, there's the Aerio, which I've heard is actually a fun and practical little car in its hatchback form.

The rest of the lineup, however, has had issues. The Forenza and Reno are rebadged Daewoo products that will ultimately be phased out now that Suzuki and GM have parted ways. The XL-7 was long-in-the-tooth and outclassed by many other vehicles in the segment. Nothing about those cars makes anyone think, "Oooh...fun!"

Suzuki is working to fix that, however, with the new-for-2007 XL7 (goodbye, hyphen) and the very appealing SX4. The XL7 uses GM's Theta platform and a lot of GM switchgear (a good thing), and blows away its Equinox and Torrent platform and production line-mates with a Suzuki-built V6 pumping out 250 horses. For its part, the SX4 looks good, has a peppy yet economical 4-cylinder underhood, features standard AWD, and will retail for between $15,000 and $18,000.

Those two cars are set to be Suzuki's launching pad for its US resurgence, and knowing they have two good things in the new rides, they are finally leveraging the motorcycle division in the marketing campaigns for the cars. The new SX4 print ad (above right) shows the Giugiaro-designed hatch casting a shadow shaped like one of Suzuki's sportbikes. The copy touts the company's fun reputation without mentioning any bikes specifically. The shadow says it all.

On the TV side, two new XL7 spots (sorry, we couldn't find them online) work the same angle. One pans from a motorcycle shadow over to the new XL7, which is the vehicle casting it. Another one shows a closeup of a foot emerging from the CUV, the door shutting, and a kickstand being flipped down as the driver walks away. Both spots ask, "Are our SUV's as much fun as our bikes?" and the Suzuki logo appears.

Only time will tell if customers think the answer to that question is "yes." We'll say this, though: both new products appear to have the goods to make a splash. Now, for the ultimate bike/car tie-in, Suzuki needs to hurry up and get their sportiest offering, the Swift, across the ocean as soon as possible. The SX4 and XL7 will put runners on base. The Swift is the car that'll drive them home.

UPDATE: Suzuki press release detailing the new campaign and images of the new print ads have been added after the jump.

[Source: Brandweek]

Continue reading Finally! New Suzuki ads draw connection to successful bikes

Finally! New Suzuki ads draw connection to successful bikes originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 08 Oct 2006 14:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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