Autoblog

VIDEO: Suzuki GSX-R self-assembles, can AI be far behind?

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Wed, 09 Dec 2009 19:01:00 EST

Self-assembling Suzuki GSX-R - Click above to watch the video after the break

Fancy yourself mechanically inclined? Ever want to try your hand at building your own motorcycle? While some of us have rebuilt our fair share of cars over the years, we've never gone and tried the ground-up thing ourselves on a two-wheeled machine, and after watching the video embedded after the break, we think we'd rather be out riding.

A heck of a lot of work obviously went into producing this clip, which we're told was completed by a father and son team (that'd be Noah and Noah's Dad, we presume) in about 30 hours. Using a bunch of creativity and the tried-and-true stop/motion technique, the two were able to make it appear as if the Suzuki GSX-R assembles itself. Not only is it nice work, we particularly appreciate the soundtrack nod to Peter Gabriel's Sledgehammer music video, itself another stop/motion classic.

[Source: YouTube via Hell For Leather]

Continue reading VIDEO: Suzuki GSX-R self-assembles, can AI be far behind?

VIDEO: Suzuki GSX-R self-assembles, can AI be far behind? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 09 Dec 2009 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Officially Official: VW and Suzuki tie the knot

Jonathon Ramsey — Wed, 09 Dec 2009 07:32:00 EST

Filed under: Suzuki, Volkswagen, Earnings/Financials

As you can see from the image above depicting Osamu Suzuki, chairman and CEO of Suzuki Motor Corp. and Martin Winterkorn, his counterpart at Volkswagen AG, the two auto companies have agreed to link arms. Volkswagen has properly announced that it has "reached a common understanding to establish a close longterm strategic partnership" with Suzuki Motor Corporation. The union means VW will buy 19.9% of Suzuki, then Suzuki will spend half the money they just received from Volkswagen reciprocating by buying VW shares.

Beyond that, Suzuki gains access to VW technology and the comforting warmth of a hugely profitable big brother. Volkswagen gets a nearly turn-key solution to boosting its small car development and piggybacks on Suzuki's presence in India and Southeast Asia. Suzuki, and of course, VW, will remain independent, but unofficial word suggests that VW might increase its stake to 33% or more at some point down the road, which could shift the balance of power.

VW's press release is after the jump, and there will be a press conference and webcast (you'll need a user name and password to watch) at 5 p.m. with more details.

[Source: Volkswagen | Image: Kazuhiro Nogi/AFP/Getty]

Continue reading Officially Official: VW and Suzuki tie the knot

Officially Official: VW and Suzuki tie the knot originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 09 Dec 2009 07:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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REPORT: Volkswagen to take 20% stake in Suzuki

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Tue, 08 Dec 2009 18:39:00 EST

Filed under: Suzuki, Volkswagen, Earnings/Financials

Where there's smoke, there's fire. Though Suzuki CEO Osamu Suzuki would beg to differ, it seems that the old saying has once again been proven prescient. After a ton of rumor, innuendo and speculation on the matter along with the subsequent denials, a fresh report from Reuters indicates that Volkswagen is indeed on the verge of announcing that it's procuring a 20% stake in Suzuki.

Assuming that the news is accurate, it will cost VW roughly $2.8 billion (250 billion yen) to purchase a fifth of Suzuki. Anonymous sources (aren't they all these days) suggest that the German automaker's share in Suzuki could easily rise to a controlling thirty-percent-plus stake.

[Source: Reuters | Image: Gabriel Bouys/AFP/Getty]

REPORT: Volkswagen to take 20% stake in Suzuki originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Dec 2009 18:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Review: 2010 Suzuki Kizashi GTS is up for the Challenge

John Neff — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 11:57:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Suzuki, Reviews

2010 Suzuki Kizashi GTS - Click above for high-res image gallery

The 2010 Kizashi will change the way you look at Suzuki. To put it bluntly, the Kizashi is the strongest evidence yet that Suzuki's automotive division is no longer operating on autopilot in the States. And what's more, the brand is showing serious confidence. Consider the vehicles against which the automaker wants you to cross shop its Kizashi: the Acura TSX and Audi A4.

Suzuki has launched a promotion called the Kizashi Test Drive Challenge that will pay $100 to anyone who test drives a Kizashi and still decides to buy the more expensive TSX or A4. After spending some quality time with the model, we don't envy those potential Acura and Audi customers who are unprepared for how difficult their decision is going to be.

Gallery: Review: 2010 Suzuki Kizashi GTS

Continue reading Review: 2010 Suzuki Kizashi GTS is up for the Challenge

Review: 2010 Suzuki Kizashi GTS is up for the Challenge originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 07 Dec 2009 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Suzuki's Kizashi Test Drive Challenge offers $100 to Audi A4 and Acura TSX buyers

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Thu, 03 Dec 2009 18:20:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, Sedan, Acura, Audi, Suzuki

2010 Suzuki Kizashi - Click above for high-res image gallery

It's best to aim high, right? While most of the automotive world (ourselves included) are busy comparing the rather wonderful Suzuki Kizashi with logical competitors like the Volkswagen Jetta - not to mention larger cars like the Honda Accord, Mazda6 and Ford Fusion - it seems the Japanese automaker itself has its sights set a bit higher... all the way up to the Audi A4 and Acura TSX, point of fact.

Called the "Kizashi Test Drive Challenge" incentive program, Suzuki is offering sport sedan buyers $100 if they test drive the Kizashi first and still end up purchasing either a 2010 Audi A4 2.0T or four-cylinder 2010 Acura TSX within 10 days of the test drive. The program ends runs through January 31, 2010. Says Koichi Suzuki, executive vice president of American Suzuki Automotive Operations:

With styling, performance characteristics, luxury features and a new advanced All-Wheel-Drive system on par with the Audi A4 and Acura TSX, we're excited to extend this unique offer to consumers across the country, providing potential sport sedan buyers another reason to consider the all-new Kizashi-at a substantial savings. We're definitely putting Kizashi's premium without the premium moniker to the test.

Like we said, aim high. Read the full set of terms and conditions in the complete press release pasted after the jump.

Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Suzuki Kizashi

Photos copyright (C)2009 Jonny Lieberman / Weblogs, Inc.

[Source: Suzuki]

Continue reading Suzuki's Kizashi Test Drive Challenge offers $100 to Audi A4 and Acura TSX buyers

Suzuki's Kizashi Test Drive Challenge offers $100 to Audi A4 and Acura TSX buyers originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Dec 2009 18:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2010 Suzuki Kizashi to start under $19k

Chris Shunk — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 13:59:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, Sedan, Suzuki

2010 Suzuki Kizashi - Click above for high-res image gallery

We liked our time behind the wheel of the 2010 Suzuki Kizashi. It drives like a little sports sedan and doesn't look half bad, and now Suzuki's newest sedan has another attractive quality: it's priced to sell. The Kizashi will start at $18,999. The base Kizashi isn't exactly a stripper model either, as power windows, doors and mirrors are standard along with a nine-speaker stereo, eight airbags, stability control and ABS.

Move up to the SE model that ranges in price from $21,499 to $22,749 and enjoy 17-inch alloys, a power driver's seat, leather steering wheel and cruise control. The next model is our personal favorite, the GTS. The sportiest of Kizashi models comes with a six-speed manual or a performance-tuned CVT (get the manual) for $22,499 to $24,849. Among its standard features are an up-level 425-watt Rockford Fosgate sound system with ten speakers, Bluetooth audio capability, hands free calling and voice command. Also standard are 18-inch wheels and a power moon roof. The top-shelf SLS model ranges from $24,399 to $26,749 and includes luxury amenities like heated leather seats, a universal garage door opener, auto head lamps, proximity sensors and rain sensing wipers.

All of the aforementioned prices are subject to Suzuki's $735 destination and shipping charge.

Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Suzuki Kizashi

[Source: Suzuki]

Continue reading 2010 Suzuki Kizashi to start under $19k

2010 Suzuki Kizashi to start under $19k originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Nov 2009 13:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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SEMA 2009: Custom Suzuki Kizashi models impress, upset

Jonny Lieberman — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 10:01:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, SEMA Show, Budget, Sedan, Performance, Japan, Suzuki

Delta Tech Engineering Suzuki Kizashi - Click above image for high-res gallery

We totally dig the new 2010 Suzuki Kizashi. It's a bold step forward for Suzuki and (hopefully) a harbinger of great things to come, which also happens to be what "Kizashi" means. However, the looks are a little, well... not outstanding. Not that it's particularly bad-looking (it ain't), but what if it were a little more... special? SEMA to the rescue!

We've got a trio of modded Kizashis for you to peruse down in the gallery, but how about some background info up front? First up is Delta Tech Engineering's car which might be our favorite. Delta Tech specializes in lighting and every light on the car is either LED or HID. Even though big mouth-look grilles are on the way out fashion-wise, we like the snout on this guy. We also like the fact that it has a cold air intake, custom exhaust and Koni coilovers.

While we just said that the Delta Tech Engineering might be our favorite Kizashi, the Road Race Motorsports Platinum Edition Kizashi pushes all the right buttons with an even more aggressive body kit. It also features a custom air intake, engine management system and data logger. You also get 13-inch slotted rotors up front (though "only" 10-inches out back). Custom springs, sway bars and chassis stiffeners round the package out.

[UPDATE: We wrongly identified Westside's Kizashi as Import Tuner's car. A total mistake on our (my) part. Sorry 'bout that.]

Lastly, we've got Westside's custom Kizashi - a car we just can't wrap our heads around. From the Frankenstein's Monster neck-bolts as exhaust tips to the bizarre two-tone paint job to the Jianghuai GIGANTIC grill, we're totally, 100% not in love. And that's that.

Gallery: SEMA 2009: Suzuki Kizashi Customs

SEMA 2009: Custom Suzuki Kizashi models impress, upset originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Nov 2009 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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REPORT: Suzuki CEO nips VW tie-up rumors in the bud

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 10:00:00 EST

Filed under: Suzuki, Volkswagen, Rumormill

Those constant rumors that Volkswagen may acquire a 10-percent stake in Suzuki all have one thing in common: they all emanate from the Volkswagen side of the coin. Naturally, no such deal can be completely one-sided, and whenever given the opportunity Suzuki has consistently denied that there's any truth to the speculation.

Osamu Suzuki, chief executive at the Japanese automaker that bears his name, has once again conclusively stated that there is no impending tie-up between the two automakers:

There's a saying that there's no smoke where there's no fire, but you're all creating smoke where there's no fire in this case. There's been nothing on this (Volkswagen ties) from our side.

All smoke and no fire? We'll know soon enough - rumor has it that the deal, if it exists at all, will take place before the end of the year.

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req'd]

REPORT: Suzuki CEO nips VW tie-up rumors in the bud originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Nov 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Suzuki dresses up a Kizashi for Halloween

Frank Filipponio — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 19:57:00 EST

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

2010 Suzuki Kizashi Concept- Click above for high-res image gallery

The boys and girls at Suzuki got into the Halloween spirit and dressed up a new Kizashi to celebrate the day. So what kind of costume would you put on a new sedan that aspires to redefine the company and show that this small carmaker can play with the big boys?

Much like a kid who slaps a giant "S" on his chest to transform into a superhero, this Kizashi put on a super-sedan's duds and thrust its chest out proudly. Looking for all the world like an Audi RS4 knockoff, this particular Kizashi was actually being readied for show duty at SEMA next week, where it'll join some of its siblings and preview some aero tweaks and chrome highlights that might eventually make it onto a production trim package for the Kizashi.

Although the differences were fairly minor, they worked together pretty well, giving the car a more aggressive and upscale look. Close examination of the photos will show a new lower front fascia with a jutting lip, chrome surrounds and blacked out honeycomb grille inserts. The sides get a similar redo with sill extensions and a chrome highlight strip. Meanwhile the tail gets a simple decklid spoiler with integrated cyclops. The final touch that makes this RS4 emulator work is the switch to Audi-like split-spoke alloy wheels. We'd say this tarted up Kizashi definitely looked more treat than trick.

Gallery: Suzuki Kizashi Sport Concept

Suzuki dresses up a Kizashi for Halloween originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 01 Nov 2009 19:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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SEMA Preview: Suzuki showing Kizashi-strong lineup

John Neff — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 16:58:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, SEMA Show, Sedan, Performance, Truck, Subaru, Off-Road

Suzuki lineup for 2009 SEMA Show - Click above for high-res image gallery

The 2009 SEMA Show in Las Vegas starts next week, and lots of automakers will be in attendance with versions of their production vehicles that take tuning to a whole new level. Suzuki has a new vehicle to show off, the Kizashi mid-size sedan, and will be loading its lineup with four examples that show what you can do with your new Suze after driving it home from the dealer.

The four Kizashis were produced by Road Race Motorsports, Delta Tech Engineering, Westside Auto Group and Import Tuner magazine. Here's a brief rundown of what each tuner will bring to the table in terms of Kizashi tuning. The Road Race Motorsports Platinum Edition Kizashi (above) is definitely tuned for performance with upgrades to the suspension, braking, intake and exhaust. A number of custom body pieces were also bolted on to make this Kizashi better look the part. The Delta Tech Engineering Kizashi (below, left) is also performance oriented, but with a larger focus on weight reduction and handling. Westside Auto Group, meanwhile, created the Kizashi Soleil (below, middle), which is more than show than go with a custom body kit, custom two-tone paint and large 7-spoke wheels. Suzuki didn't provide images of the Import Tuner Kizashi and only hinted at what modifications it may contain, so we'll have to wait for SEMA to check out that one.

Finally, in addition to these four Kizashis, Suzuki will also have a custom Equator pickup by ICON Vehicle Dynamics (above right) that features some engine mods for the truck's 4.0-liter V6, a beefier suspension that provides more lift and bigger wheel/tire package.

You can check them all out in the gallery below and follow the jump for Suzuki's press release that contains all the specifics they're willing to talk about right now.

Gallery: Suzuki lineup for 2009 SEMA Show

[Source: Suzuki]

Continue reading SEMA Preview: Suzuki showing Kizashi-strong lineup

SEMA Preview: Suzuki showing Kizashi-strong lineup originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 29 Oct 2009 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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REPORT: 2011 Suzuki Swift engineered to meet U.S. regulations

Noah Joseph — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 14:00:00 EST

Filed under: Hatchback, Suzuki

Suzuki Swift Sport Click above for high-res image gallery

There are things that Suzuki does well, and things it doesn't do so well. Among the former are its motorcycles and small cars like the Swift. Among the latter, well, just take a look at their success in the North American market. Unfortunately, the company doesn't offer the Swift - an almost universally praised little hatchback - in North America, a decision which Suzuki admits in hindsight was a mistake. But the company has been hard at work on a successor to the hot-selling hatch, and rumors have been circulating that this version could, in the end, make it Stateside.

The latest news comes from the mouth of Suzuki's chief engineer Takashi Nakayama via Car and Driver, who says the next-gen Swift is being developed with United States crash and emissions regulations in mind. Although that doesn't mean it will necessarily make it here, it does give Suzuki the option. In the meantime, the company is toiling away, preparing the ground for the arrival of its new Kizashi sedan while getting by on a lineup consisting of the underrated SX4, ho-hum Grand Vitara, what's left of XL7 stock and the rebadged Nissan Frontier known as the Suzuki Equator.

Gallery: Suzuki Swift Sport

[Source: Car and Driver]

REPORT: 2011 Suzuki Swift engineered to meet U.S. regulations originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 26 Oct 2009 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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First Drive: 2010 Suzuki Kizashi drives brand out of basement, into fast lane

Jonny Lieberman — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 11:56:00 EST

Filed under: Budget, Sedan, Performance, Japan, Suzuki, First Drive

2010 Suzuki Kizashi - Click above for high-res image gallery

Shut your eyes and say the word "Suzuki" out loud. Unless you're a moto-head or one of those rare Geo Metro fanatics (they exist, trust us), the image that springs to mind isn't very nice. Odds are that the car your subconscious conjures is tiny, cheap and bizarre. It's probably named something forgettable like "Aerio" or totally inaccurate (and forgettable) like "Esteem." Forgettable cars tend to attract forgettable customers. Don't believe us? Suzuki referred to their recent crop of owners as "subprime." Ouch. But, with that pain comes some truth. And in an industry long known for complete and total self delusion, Suzuki's admission was cathartic across both sides of the automaker/auto journo aisle.

The Kizashi drives better than basically everything in its class.

But what would cause Suzuki to be so blunt? A number of factors, as it turns out. For one thing, "subprime" is so 2008. Meaning that relying on folks with poor credit to snap up your cars because they're so cheap just ain't good business these days. Nor is outsourcing big, potentially huge moneymakers like seven-passenger SUVs to General Motors. There's nothing inherently wrong with the XL7 other than the fact that it's based on the Theta platform, just like the (defunct) Pontiac Torrent and Saturn Vue. Smartly, Suzuki has indefinitely suspended XL7 production. More importantly, rather than not making bad cars, Suzuki might just be in the middle of a product renaissance.

Those familiar with the plucky little SX4 are well aware that it's a great driving, high content, practical hatch that's incredibly inexpensive (name another car featuring all-wheel drive and navigation for under $18,000). But you may not know the SX4 is half-Fiat, penned by none other than Giugiaro and half-designed by the Italian giant. So what Suzuki needs to really pull off a rebirth (or at least the early stages of a rebirth) is a fully 100% Suzuki-designed car that's not just "good enough," but "better than." And according to Suzuki, the all new 2010 Kizashi is indeed such a vehicle. But is it?

Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Suzuki Kizashi

Continue reading First Drive: 2010 Suzuki Kizashi drives brand out of basement, into fast lane

First Drive: 2010 Suzuki Kizashi drives brand out of basement, into fast lane originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 16 Oct 2009 11:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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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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Volkswagen looking to take stake in Suzuki by year's end?

Michael Harley — Sun, 20 Sep 2009 11:35:00 EST

Filed under: Suzuki, Volkswagen, Earnings/Financials, Rumormill

The rumors keep coming. Just last month, we reported that Volkswagen AG was interested in a small slice of Suzuki Motors. Now, the German industry publication Automobilwoche is reiterating the same news. Apparently, a Suzuki executive at the Frankfurt Motor Show mentioned that an agreement between the two automakers would be in place by the end of the year. "For Suzuki and VW this connection would be a win-win situation. Suzuki would have access to a variety of VW's technology, while Volkswagen would have a solid supporting leg in India and Southeast Asia," the unnamed source said.

Neither party has any official word on the matter. However, last Monday Martin Winterkorn, VW's Chief Executive, said the product portfolio of the Japanese automaker would fit well with his company. Thanks for the tip, James!

[Source: Reuters]

Volkswagen looking to take stake in Suzuki by year's end? originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 20 Sep 2009 11:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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It's o-kei! Suzuki Palette SW introduced in Japan

Alex Nunez — Sat, 19 Sep 2009 15:33:00 EST

Filed under: Minivan/Van, Japan, Suzuki

2009 Suzuki Palette SW - Click above for image gallery

You're Japanese. You have a family. You need a minivan. But minivans are freaking huge, Japan's streets are crowded, and you want something that's a lot smaller and can dart between lumbering dekotora lit up like Vegas. So, you look to a kei minivan because it's teeny tiny. Suzuki's got your back with the Palette, the micro-mini minivan it introduced back in early 2008. It's totally neat in that way all Japanese kei cars are, as its compact size belies interior storage capacity capable of swallowing up literally hundreds of packs of Dentyne, several vintage Super Famicoms, and that box of priceless Chevy Astro brochures you overpaid some American pack rat for on eBay.

One problem: the regular-edition Palette's a bit vanilla to look at. Suzuki has apparently gotten the memo and spiced things up in the traditional manner: a new fascia and more letters in the nomenclature. Hence, we have the Palette SW, which wears a more mischievous anime face, as apposed to the docile-looking, doe-eyed standard grade Suzuki Palette. The other change introduced with the SW is a two-stage CVT that allows drivers to manually select lower or higher pre-programmed gear ratios to place an emphasis on either better acceleration or improved fuel economy. That way, they can wring out every last bit of punch or efficiency the little juice box on wheels can offer.

Gallery: Suzuki Palette SW

[Source: Suzuki (translated)]

It's o-kei! Suzuki Palette SW introduced in Japan originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 19 Sep 2009 15:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Respect Your Elders: Suzuki's Kizashi concepts spotted stacked and awaiting crusher?

Jonathon Ramsey — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 13:00:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, Etc., Japan, Suzuki

Old concepts don't die, they just get thrown in a heap and stacked atop one another in some dank lot out back. Actually, we don't know where the lot is located, but we do know it appears to be holding the Suzuki Kizashi, Kizashi 2, and Kizashi 3 - important concepts that the Japanese automaker unveiled over the past two years.

We hope these aren't the final show car versions. If so, we would have thought that the car that led to the production Kizashi - a big deal for Suzuki - would have been accorded a better spot in the afterlife, like maybe a place in a museum. Or, hell, at least an auction house listing. But that's the great circle of life for you. Tip your 40 to the Kizashis that once were...

Gallery: Suzuki Kizashi 3 Concept - Live Reveal

[Source: 7Tune | Image: New Model Magazine X]

Respect Your Elders: Suzuki's Kizashi concepts spotted stacked and awaiting crusher? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 28 Aug 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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U.S. market Suzuki Swift reportedly still on track for 2011, next Grand Vitara coming in 2013

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 09:28:00 EST

Filed under: Budget, SUV, Crossover, Hatchback, Suzuki

Suzuki Swift Sport - Click above for high-res gallery

Generally regarded as one of the top motorcycle brands all around the world and a major producer of Kei cars in Japan, Suzuki has never quite lived up to its promise as a sporty alternative to more mainstream offerings in America's small car and SUV arenas. Still, we're pulling for the brand to make an impact in our neck of the woods, and according to a report on Automotive News, that could possibly (finally) come in 2011 with the introduction of the Swift.

We've been hearing from Suzuki for years that the Swift would in fact make it to U.S. shores in due time, and we're hopeful that the next-gen model is as competent and fun to drive as we hear the current model is from our European friends. One new vehicle does not a successful brand make, however, so Suzuki is also said to be working on the next installment of its Grand Vitara line for 2013.

Additionally, a new crossover is reportedly on the drawing board to replace the XL7 that was killed back in May when Suzuki halted production at the CAMI plant in Ingersoll, Ontario. The new CUV would show up in 2011 or '12 and be based on a stretched version of the platform underpinning the recently-unveiled Kizashi midsize sedan, which is expected to hit showrooms for the 2010 model year.

Gallery: Suzuki Swift Sport

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req'd]

U.S. market Suzuki Swift reportedly still on track for 2011, next Grand Vitara coming in 2013 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 26 Aug 2009 09:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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REPORT: Volkswagen interested in partnership with Suzuki, still

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 08:30:00 EST

Filed under: Budget, Suzuki, Volkswagen, Renault

Suzuki Alto Lapin - Click above for high-res gallery

Just a few months back, Manager Magazin in Germany reported Volkswagen chairman Ferdinand Piech was interested in procuring a small stake in Suzuki. Those rumors were subsequently denied by Osamu Suzuki, chief executive of the automaker that bears his name.

Now, news from the same source that there may have been a bit more truth to those initial rumors than Suzuki was willing to admit. Says VW Chief Executive Martin Winterkorn, "Suzuki would be an interesting partner because of its competency in small cars." As before, the German magazine suggests that Volkswagen would either purchase a 10-percent stake in Suzuki or enter into a joint venture for the production of small cars for emerging markets.

Of course, even if there have been talks between VW and Suzuki, the German automaker already has plenty on its plate at the moment in the form of a merger with longtime partner Porsche. Perhaps, then, there's room for Renault, which is also reportedly interested in working with Suzuki on future small car projects.

Gallery: Suzuki Alto Lapin

[Source: Reuters]

REPORT: Volkswagen interested in partnership with Suzuki, still originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 25 Aug 2009 08:30:00 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: Suzuki Kizashi hybrid sedan tipped for 2011 sales

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 16:20:00 EST

Filed under: Hybrid, Sedan, GM, Suzuki, Rumormill

2010 Suzuki Kizashi - Click above for high-res image gallery

Suzuki has big plans for its new Kizashi midsize sedan. Not only is the Kizaski going up against the best selling automobiles in America (the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord, that is), it's also reportedly tipped to carry the Japanese automaker's environmentally-friendly ambitions to new heights here in the States.

According to Japan's Nikkei newspaper (via Bloomberg), Suzuki's new midsizer is slated to offer an optional hybrid powertrain for 2011. A gas-electric motivator has been mooted for Kizashi for some time, but this is the first time a firm timetable has been established for the vehicle. If there's any truth to the rumor, this will make the Kizashi Suzuki's first hybrid automobile.

There aren't any details on the expected powertrain, but rumor has it the technology will come from longtime American partner General Motors. That means the Kizashi will either come equipped with GM's BAS mild hybrid system or the much more sophisticated and fuel efficient (and therefore expensive) 2-Mode setup.

For it's part, Bloomberg rather ambiguously informs that Suzuki "spokesman Hideki Taguchi declined to deny the report."

Gallery: 2010 Suzuki Kizashi

[Source: Bloomberg]

REPORT: Suzuki Kizashi hybrid sedan tipped for 2011 sales originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 17 Aug 2009 16:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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