- Suzuki celebrates another annual sales record, marking four consecutive
years of growth
- Versatile Suzuki X-HEAD concept set for North American premiere
- Eye-catching Suzuki SX4 WRC, SXForce and full line of vehicles on display
DETROIT, Jan. 11 /PRNewswire/ -- After a fourth consecutive year of
increasing sales, and more than 100,000 units sold for the second year in a
row, Suzuki Auto carries enormous momentum into the 2008 North American
International Auto Show (NAIAS). With the Motor City serving as a backdrop,
Suzuki showcases its X-HEAD concept, a completely contemporary vision of
off-roading built on Suzuki's 40-year history of credible off-road
architectures. The Suzuki X-HEAD, making its North American debut at NAIAS
this year, combines form and function -- with a healthy dose of "cool
factor" -- using purpose-built modules for various active lifestyles.
(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20080111/LAF021)
To view the Multimedia News Release, go to:
http://www.prnewswire.com/mnr/suzuki/31375/
In addition to the go-anywhere X-HEAD, Suzuki will showcase the
SXForce, a sportbike-inspired concept based on the all-new 2008 four-door
SX4 Sport that embodies the company's legendary motorcycle heritage. Suzuki
also sports its entry in the World Rally Championship (WRC), a head-turning
vehicle derived from the five-door SX4 Crossover that has received
significant attention since being introduced at SEMA in 2007.
"Suzuki Auto is pleased to be a part of NAIAS 2008 on the heels of
another year of record-setting sales, which can be credited, in large part,
to our versatile and award-winning products along with growing brand
familiarity," said Mark Harano, president of American Suzuki Automotive
Operations. "With the popular SX4 Sport now in showrooms and more fresh
designs and exciting product introductions on the horizon, Suzuki Auto is
well-positioned for continued success in 2008."
Suzuki X-HEAD
Making its North American debut, the funky Suzuki X-HEAD concept
cross-utility vehicle was built to offer serious off-road performance and
was first seen globally at the 2007 Tokyo Motor Show.
With flexibility and fun at the heart of its appeal, the X-HEAD concept
offers adaptable stowage with diverse load-carrying capabilities and can be
coupled with three distinct purpose-built modules, including the "Camper,"
which allows two adults to sleep in comfort. X-HEAD also can be equipped
with the "Fashion," which provides stylish urban mobility, or the "Rescue,"
which is designed for emergency search and safety operations.
Resembling an iconic Tonka(R) truck, but with more capability than a
mere toy, the rugged and functional X-HEAD concept combines the off-road
capabilities of the Suzuki Jimny and Grand Vitara with the load-carrying
capacity of the Suzuki APV van from Japan -- all in a package that combines
confidence with panache. The truck is fitted with a full-time
four-wheel-drive system with limited slip center differential and boasts a
four-cylinder, 16-valve DOHC powerplant matched to a six-speed dual clutch
transmission. X-HEAD also is outfitted with aggressive off-road tires
featuring an "X" tread along with steep approach and departure angles that
further enhance its go-anywhere-anytime capabilities.
In the airy, functional cockpit, the X-HEAD includes many practical
features designed for added convenience and comfort, including a rear
vision camera with wide monitor display and neoprene seats with net sheets
for waterproofing. And in case you find yourself in a precarious situation,
the X-HEAD also comes equipped with a portable multi-utility toolbox that
includes a combination flashlight/hammer. If preparedness is your motto,
X-HEAD is your vehicle.
Suzuki SXForce
The SXForce is one of the latest additions to Suzuki's 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, the SXForce is a
sportbike-inspired concept based on 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. This 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 and 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.
Suzuki 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 excellent
controllability under a wide range of rally conditions, this creation by
Suzuki Sport, Suzuki's motorsports division, has involved extensive testing
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 similarly well regarded.
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, while 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 2,500 mm, stands 1,450 mm 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 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.
Suzuki SX4 Sport
The all-new 2008 four-door Suzuki SX4 Sport is the urban cousin to the
five-door SX4 Crossover and designed to ease the day-in, day-out
metropolitan grind for its drivers. Sharing a common appeal to those who
live a life consistent with Suzuki's "Way of Life" brand philosophy, the
SX4 Sport and SX4 Crossover seamlessly blend into varied driving conditions
and environments.
The SX4 Sport inherited its award-winning handling capabilities from
the Suzuki Swift, which has won more than 16 international awards. Having
wowed journalists and drivers throughout the world, the sporty Swift
character embodied in the SX4 Sport can now be enjoyed by U.S. consumers.
Suzuki's development benchmark for the SX4 Sport was to meet or beat the
Swift on key dynamic performance attributes in order to win the heart of
the American consumer.
SX4's appeal does not end at the track, as it offers bold, youthful
styling along with a generous list of standard features and a surprisingly
roomy interior. Targeted toward younger buyers with a male skew, the SX4
Sport represents a core model for Suzuki that has a personality distinct
from its competitors.
Built in Japan, the SX4 Sport features a sophisticated 2.0-liter,
four-cylinder, 16-valve DOHC engine matched to a five-speed manual
transmission or an available specially tuned four-speed automatic
transmission. The responsive engine's strong low-end torque provides the
fun-to-drive feeling commuters and weekenders crave, along with more power
than segment volume leaders. The 2.0-liter engine delivers 143 horsepower
and 136 lb.-ft. of torque, with an estimated EPA fuel economy rating of 23
mpg/city and 31 mpg/highway with automatic transmission.
The 2008 SX4 Sport is one of the best-equipped compact cars in America,
with more standard features than cars costing thousands more. The base SX4
Sport's standard features include six airbags (front driver and passenger
airbags, driver and passenger side-impact airbags and side curtain
airbags), four-wheel disc brakes with ABS and electronic brake-force
distribution, tire pressure monitoring system, trip computer, front
seatbelt pretensioners, power windows, locks and mirrors, remote keyless
entry, air conditioning, AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system with four speakers, tilt
steering wheel, aero body package, 17-inch alloy wheels and floor mats. The
starting MSRP for the four-door SX4 Sport is $14,770 plus $625 for
destination and handling.
The Convenience Package adds cruise control and a leather-wrapped
steering wheel with integrated audio controls, automatic climate control
and heated outside mirrors. Adding only $500, the starting MSRP for the SX4
Sport with the Convenience Package is $15,270. For just another $1,000, the
Touring package adds a six-disc CD player, upgraded 380-watt audio system
with nine speakers, including subwoofer, fog lamps, a rear spoiler,
Electronic Stability Program (ESP)(1) with traction control system and
SmartPass keyless entry and start system, and starts at $16,270. An
automatic transmission is available for $1,100 on all models.
Suzuki SX4 Crossover
Since its introduction as a 2007 model, the Suzuki SX4 Crossover has
received numerous awards, including being named one of the "Top 10 Coolest
Cars Under $18,000" by Kelley Blue Book and "Best Kept Secret of 2007" by
Autobytel. The SX4 Crossover features a sophisticated 2.0-liter, in-line
four cylinder, DOHC engine rated at 143 horsepower. Fitted with intelligent
all-wheel drive as standard equipment, the five-door is America's most
affordable all-wheel-drive vehicle and is sure to be a year-round standout
in any driving condition.
Several refinements have been made for the 2008 model year, including a
revised fifth gear ratio (M/T) for improved highway mpg and reduced NVH,
remote fuel door release, air conditioning with automatic climate control
and heated outside mirrors with the Convenience package. Other available
features for the 2008 SX4 Crossover include Bluetooth connectivity, sport
pedals and shifter. The starting MSRP for the five-door SX4 Crossover is
$15,270 plus $625 destination and handling.
Suzuki XL7
Redesigned for the 2007 model year, the XL7 midsize crossover SUV
evolved from a body-on-frame, rear-wheel-drive design to a larger, more
comfortable front-drive unibody design. Suzuki's flagship SUV, which
proudly displays a quadruple five-star safety rating, boasts a standard
3.6-liter V6, DOHC engine rated at 252 horsepower matched to a five-speed
automatic transmission with manumatic control, available all-wheel drive
and three-row seating. All work together to deliver the size, style, power
and flexibility needed to facilitate a consumer's active lifestyle with
ease.
For 2008, the XL7 packs even more value into Luxury and Limited models
with added standard features. Luxury models now include standard power
moonroof and six-CD audio system. Limited models feature a substantially
lower MSRP than the 2007 model, and include significant upgrades to the
standard equipment list, including power heated front seats, touch screen
navigation system, rear vision camera system, power moonroof, chrome wheels
and six-CD, Pioneer-branded premium audio system. Limited models also offer
an available rear entertainment system. The starting MSRP for the XL7
midsize SUV is $21,349 plus $650 destination and handling. The fully-loaded
Limited is available for $28,899 plus destination.
2008 Suzuki Auto Product Line
In addition to the head-turning concept vehicles and motorsports
machines on display in Detroit, Suzuki's full line of 2008 vehicles
includes the stylish four-door SX4 Sport, bold and functional five-door SX4
Crossover, versatile XL7 midsize SUV, rugged Grand Vitara compact SUV,
compact Forenza sedan and Forenza Wagon, and the Reno. Every vehicle in the
line provides Suzuki's standout virtues of toughness, leading-edge style
and high-end features at very competitive prices. All 2008 Suzuki
automobiles are backed by America's #1 Warranty: a 100,000-mile/seven-year,
fully transferable, zero-deductible powertrain limited warranty.
About Suzuki
The Brea, Calif.-based Automotive Operations of American Suzuki Motor
Corporation was founded in 1985 by parent company Suzuki Motor Corporation
(SMC) and currently markets its vehicles in the United States through a
network of approximately 500 automotive dealerships in 49 states. Based in
Hamamatsu, Japan, SMC is a diversified worldwide automobile, motorcycle and
outboard motor manufacturer with sales of more than two million new
automobiles annually. Founded in 1909 and incorporated in 1920, SMC has
operations in 187 countries. For more information, visit
http://www.media.suzukiauto.com.
(1) ESP is a registered trademark of Chrysler LLC
SOURCE American Suzuki Motor Corporation
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Related links:
http://www.suzuki.com
http://www.media.suzukiauto.com
Photo Notes:http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20080111/LAF021
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com
CONTACT:
David Boldt of American Suzuki,
+1-714-996-7040, ext. 2464, autopr@suz.com; or Andrew Nicolai of
PainePR, +1-949-809-6786, anicolai@Painepr.com, for American
Suzuki
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