Suzuki’s promotion at Frankfurt was an interesting one. While we were walking the other displays at the show, a
squad of girls in space-age attire could be seen moving about the crowd. Upon closer inspection, it was clear these
were Suzuki’s models. What an great tactic, instead of keeping your models pinned into the confines of your display let
them roam freely into other manufacturers’ territory. We wondered if Suzuki’s section would be filled with more
space-cadet models.
Not exactly space-age, but there were certainly lots of models on display next to Suzuki?s vehicles. Obviously the
new Grand Vitara was Suzuki?s big reveal of the show, but they also had the Swift on display.
About the Grand Vitara, it is a very nice SUV. It definitely is far superior to the outgoing model. Also, the exterior
styling is very attractive. Well done Suzuki. The interior seems very comfortable and the interior quality levels were
more than acceptable. As good as the other GM Theta derived SUVs are, the Suzuki comes across so much better. A manual
transmission is also available. Expect the 2006 Grand Vitara to start around $19,000 very well equipped with Suzuki?s
100,000 mile warranty.
When you see the Swift, you almost instantaneously see a little Mini Cooper in the exterior style. Well, the Swift
seems a lot larger in person than photographs would lead you to believe. This could have potential in the US,
especially if it is priced well. The interior was surprisingly roomy and perhaps a touch more upscale that what you
would expect. You would almost forget that this is a Suzuki Swift. Suzuki also had a competition Swift on display and a
couple of motorcycles to complement the myriad of models already on display.