The A-Star will be shown to the public at the Ninth New Delhi Auto Show in January, but we can bring you some sketches of the compact car. The car will be produced in India and exported to Europe and beyond and will be Euro 5 compliant, which leads us to believe this may just be the new Suzuki Alto which is scheduled for a Geneva debut in March.

India is an important market for Suzuki, outselling Japan in the first half of 2007, and the Murati Suzuki partnership (Indian government and Suzuki) will be capable of producing 1 million units by 2010/2011.

Having successfully completed the all-asphalt Tour de Corse-Rallye de France in October, the Suzuki World Rally Team now faces a brand new challenge with the Rally GB, held entirely on gravel.

The SX4 WRC’s gravel debut comes on one of the most difficult loose-surface events of the entire year. The forests of South Wales, where all the action takes place, are renowned for their high-speed stages and variable amounts of grip.

One of the biggest hurdles the crews will have to overcome is the notorious British weather. The rally takes place in early December, meaning that fog, rain and even ice is a distinct possibility. A number of the stages in the early morning and evening will be run in the dark, which only adds to the challenge.

The rally is based in Cardiff, the Capital of Wales, and the action includes a spectacular spectator superspecial stage through the city’s famous Millennium Stadium on Saturday night December 1st.

For Suzuki, the priority will be to get to the finish in order to continue the SX4 WRC’s development programme on gravel. The car has shown some early promise in testing, but there is no substitute for the heat of competition. Suzuki’s progress throughout the three days of the British event will be a journey of discovery, with the firm aim of bringing back the maximum amount of data as the Suzuki World Rally Team gears up for its first full World Championship campaign in 2008.

The competition is sure to be very strong, as Wales Rally Great Britain is the final round of the 2007 World Championship and the place where the World Champion will be crowned on Sunday night. It is also the most heavily subscribed event on the World Championship, with no fewer than 120 competitors due to take the ceremonial start on Thursday night in Cardiff.

Car news – Suzuki SX4 WRC n.19:
Suzuki will run just one SX4 WRC in Britain, for Sebastian Lindholm from Finland. The car will appear in full gravel specification for the first time in competition. This includes gravel suspension with a tall ride height in order to provide sufficient ground clearance on the rough roads, and underbody protection to guard against the rough rocks. The gravel specification also includes smaller brakes than are used on asphalt and a differential set-up that is specific for loose surfaces. Innovations in the engine and transmission include a new valve operating system, engine mapping, anti-lag system and new differential settings. All of these evolutions are designed to improve driveability while remaining within the scope of the FIA homologation rules.

Nonetheless, the emphasis is on testing, so the SX4 WRC’s set-up will be adjusted over all three days of the event in order to find the best compromises. Suzuki will also be trying out some new solutions aimed at next year’s gravel rallies.

Driver news:
Suzuki World Rally Team driver Sebastian Lindholm has been driving the SX4 WRC for most of the year on the car’s gravel tests, and he is looking forward to continuing this vital development work on the Wales Rally Great Britain.

Lindholm – a seven-time Finnish Rally Champion – last competed on the Rally Great Britain in 1998, where he finished fifth overall. He has also formed part of the Peugeot World Rally Team’s factory line-up on his native Rally Finland until 2005. Lindholm, the cousin of Marcus Gronholm, has co-driver Tomi Tuominen with him. Their experience has proved extremely useful during Suzuki’s gravel testing to date, the latest phase of which is the Wales Rally GB.

Sebastian said: “I feel very pleased that I’m going to create a bit of history by driving the SX4 WRC on its first gravel rally! So far, our performance in testing has been promising but there’s still quite a lot of work to do and that is why we are here on Wales Rally Great Britain. I like the car a lot, but I can think of some ways to improve it further and I will be trying those ideas out on the rally. It’s been a little while since I have competed on this event, so I am going to make sure we get to the finish above everything else. I always have a very good feeling on gravel and I am sure we will do a lot of useful work here. That will be the key thing, rather than the overall result.”

Team news:
Wales Rally Great Britain will be yet another steep learning curve on what is only Suzuki’s second-ever World Championship Rally. The Suzuki World Rally Team has been testing following the Rallye de France, and it feels confident that it is following the correct development path. Nobuhiro Tajima, team principal of the Suzuki World Rally Team, commented: “Our mission in Britain will be exactly the same as it was in Corsica: to bring the car home in order to learn as much as we can for the future development of the SX4 WRC. If anything, gravel is an even bigger challenge than asphalt: we do not have so much experience on this surface with the car and the surfaces are a lot harder to predict. Rally GB is a very difficult event: Sebastian must be careful and accumulate as much data as possible for us – this is the aim!”

Event programme:
Thursday, 29 November:
19:30 Ceremonial start, Cardiff

Friday, 30 November:
09:10 Start of leg one
21:00 End of leg one after six special stages (140.80 competitive kilometres)

Saturday, 1 December:
08:00 Start of leg two
20:10 End of leg two after seven special stages (104.48 competitive kilometres)

Sunday, 2 December:
06:25 Start of leg three
15:40 End of leg three after four special stages (114.26 competitive kilometres)

Wagon R’s sales totalled 17,904 units in October, up 4.6 pct from a year earlier.

Daihatsu Motor Co.’s <7262> Move, another 660-c.c. minivehicle, came in second, followed by Toyota Motor Corp.’s <7203> larger Corolla passenger car.

Sales of the Move increased 13.7 pct to 16,480 units, while those of the Corolla were up 4.3 pct to total 13,569 units.

The top three models were unchanged from the previous month.

Toyota’s Mark X series, including the Mark X Zio minivan model launched in September, posted a year-on-year rise of 110 pct in sales to 7,929 units in October, to come straight in at No. 6

Toyota’s Voxy and Noah minivans, both of which were fully remodeled in June, enjoyed solid year-on-year gains in October.

Following are the 10 best-selling models in October with sales volume in units:

Model Maker Sales
1.*Wagon R Suzuki 17,904
2.*Move Daihatsu 16,480
3. Corolla Toyota 13,569
4. Vitz Toyota 11,369
5. Fit Honda 8,336 6. Mark X Toyota 7,929
7. Voxy Toyota 7,885
8. Noah Toyota 7,392
9.*Tanto Daihatsu 7,080
10.*Mira Daihatsu 6,633

Note: Sales figures for minivehicles were announced by the Japan Mini Vehicles Association and larger models by the Japan Automobile Dealers Association. “*” indicates minivehicles with engine displacements of up to 660 c.c.

The new 1.6 DDiS engine – supplied by Peugeot – complements the existing 120 PS 1.9 DDiS unit and its 90 PS output and 215 Nm of torque ensure lively, flexible performance characteristics matched by strong fuel economy. Mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox and driving through the front wheels, the combined cycle figure is a frugal 53.3 mpg and CO₂ emissions are 139 g/km, yet the latest SX4 clocks up 0-62 mph in 12.2 seconds and has a potential top speed of 109 mph.

Equipment levels are similar to the SX4 1.6 GL but adds manual air conditioning, heated door mirrors, 16 inch alloys, roof rails, front fogs and wheelarch extensions. The on-the-road price is £11,999 and, in common with petrol-engined models, the new model qualifies for a 6D insurance grouping.

Like the rest of the SX4 range, the 1.6 DDiS offers an exciting small car alternative, combining responsive driving dynamics, high levels of practicality and styling that suggests a freestyle approach to life. 

The roomy interior includes 60:40 split rear seats which tumble to create an almost flat floor and a boot capacity of 625 litres. An extensive array of safety features include front, side and curtain airbags, plus front seat pre-tensioners.

As well as the larger 120 PS diesel, the SX4 also offers a 107 PS 1.6 VVT petrol engine with either two-wheel drive or – in the 4GRIP model – intelligent All Wheel Drive.

Notes to editors:

• All Suzuki models are covered by Suzuki Shield, a 3 year/60,000 mile new vehicle warranty, by Suzuki Assistance, providing 24 hour UK and European roadside assistance, recovery and associated service for 36 months and by a 12 year perforation warranty on the Grand Vitara, Swift, SX4 and Ignis.
• On the road prices include VAT, delivery to dealer, number plates, 6 months’ VED and First Registration Fee.

The impressively equipped X-EC can be readily identified by its unique Azure Grey Pearl metallic paintwork, silver roof rails and exclusive 17 inch 10-spoke alloy wheels. Further distinguishing touches include silver front bonnet trim, black side mouldings and, of course, X-EC badging.

Keyless entry and start means there’s no fumbling for keys, and once inside an air of luxury is provided by a leather-trimmed steering wheel and Alcantara upholstery. Cruise control and Trafficmaster’s Smartnav navigation system contribute to a relaxed driving experience, and when the preference is for some fresh air, then the X-EC is equipped with an electric sunroof.

That’s on top of an already extensive specification that includes automatic climate control, MP3-audio compatibility, reclining rear seats, front fogs, steering-wheel audio controls, heated electric door mirrors and six airbags.

The Smartnav navigation and congestion avoidance system takes live traffic information from Trafficmaster’s 7,500-strong sensor network and guides drivers around jams and delays to get them from A to B in the shortest possible time.

The package includes a 12 month navigation subscription with live traffic information, plus a one month free trial subscription to Trafficmaster Safe Speed – an in-car alert system which flags up speed limits around fixed safety cameras – and a one-month free trial subscription to Stolen Vehicle Tracking.

The 140 PS 2.0-litre petrol engined Grand Vitara XE-C is priced at £16,999 on-the-road in 5-speed manual form – a 4-speed automatic transmission is available for an extra £1,000 – while the 129 PS intercooled and turbocharged 1.9 DDiS 5-speed manual model retails at £18,499 OTR.

Combined cycle fuel consumption is 32.1 mpg for the 2.0-litre model (automatic 31.0 mpg), while the 1.9 DDiS is capable of 37.2 mpg. CO₂ emissions are 208, 217 and 195 g/km respectively.

The Grand Vitara offers exceptional refinement, with all-wheel independent suspension ensuring a smooth and responsive on-road ride. Yet with its permanently engaged four-wheel drive system, a locking centre differential and low range, it possesses serious off-road capability and the unique monocoque body with ‘built-in ladder frame’ provides exceptional rigidity and toughness.

The relatively long wheelbase which effectively ‘pushes’ the front wheels forwards ensures a spacious cabin with legroom comparable to models from a higher segment and a capacious luggage area able to swallow 758 litres.

Notes to editors:

• The insurance group rating for all Grand Vitara X-EC models is 14D, in common with the standard models.
• All Suzuki models are covered by Suzuki Shield, a 3 year/60,000 mile new vehicle warranty, by Suzuki Assistance, providing 24 hour UK and European roadside assistance, recovery and associated service for 36 months and by a 12 year perforation warranty on the Grand Vitara, Swift, SX4 and Ignis.
• On the road prices include VAT, delivery to dealer, number plates, 6 months’ VED and First Registration Fee.

Advertising Agency: Robert/Boisen & Likeminded, Copenhagen, Denmark
Creative Director: Michael Robert Nielsen
Art Director: Maria Friis-Thorsen
Copywriter: Sarah Hvass
Photographer: Morgan/Morell
Published: October 2006

Source: adsoftheworld.com

The advert contains a roller-coaster type harness on each of the seats which is used to compare the fun of driving the Suzuki Swift to the enjoyment of a roller-coaster.

Suzuki also supports grassroots events and the stars of tomorrow. It is shown by their commitment to act as main sponsor for the Burton AM Tour as well. It is a grassroots events series across Europe, which Burton hosts for the third year in a row. Suzuki will offer two Suzuki quad bikes for the female and the male winners as well.

The highlight of the partnership between Suzuki and Burton will be a design contest: consumers will be able to design their own Series 13 board. Burton Series 13 is a program that enables consumers to create their own board graphics. All contest submissions will be judged at the end of the season by a panel consisting of Burton team riders, product managers and Suzuki representatives. The best Series 13 design will not only receive his personal Series 13 board, but also a Suzuki Grand Vitara “Freeride” Edition in the design of the winning board-graphics. A dedicated website for the design-contest – www.series13.com/wayoflife will be launched by mid-November latest.

Guido Hannich, Director European Marketing of Suzuki, states the following: “Sports like snowboarding fit very well to our new Way of Life strategy and underline the sporty and emotional values of the Suzuki brand. The partnership with market leader Burton Snowboards will give a big boost to our brand awareness among the huge audience of snowboarding fans throughout Europe.”

Over the last years Suzuki has continuously supported winter sports which has now culminated in the partnership with market leader in snowboarding Burton.

About Suzuki
The SUZUKI Motor Corporation with headquarters in Hamamatsu (Japan) is the leading international manufacturer of mini cars and the twelfth largest automobile manufacturer of the world. The independent and financially sound company employs some 45,510 people and is represented in over 192 countries. Its net sales have been exceeding the previous terms for 8th consecutive year and its operating income for 7th consecutive year. In the fiscal year 2006/2007 the turnover reached about 19.4 billion euro (3,163 billion yen) with an increase of 15.2 percent over the previous year. The worldwide sales cover among other products 2.22 million cars and 3.06 million motorcycles. Suzuki has 35 main production facilities in 23 countries.

With the three lines of business – cars, motorcycles and outboard motors – Suzuki embodies a unique “Way of Life!” that stands for the brand values “excitement”, “straightforward”, “value”, “sporty” and “spirit”. These values manifest themselves in innovation, best-fit products for its customers, a glorious motor sport history, a number of ambitious Rally engagements and convincing core competencies in the off-road and four-wheel drive sectors, based on almost 100 years of company history.

About Burton Snowboards
In 1977, Jake Burton Carpenter founded Burton Snowboards out of his Vermont barn. Since then, Burton has fuelled the growth of snowboarding worldwide through its groundbreaking product lines, its team of top snowboarders and its grassroots efforts to get the sport accepted at resorts.  In 1996, Burton began growing its family of brands to include boardsports and apparel brands. Privately held and owned by Jake, Burton’s headquarters are in Burlington, Vermont with international offices in Austria and Japan. For more information, visit www.burton.com.

In the winter 2007/08 the Burton AM Tour will be hosted by the following 19 resorts:

The automobile manufacturers spend ¥ 187.9 billion on the factory, compared with an earlier plan to invest 96 billion ¥, spokesman Shigeyuki Yamamura said. The construction of the plant was first announced in August.

Suzuki invested, as the demand for small cars is increasing despite higher fuel prices costs. Hamamatsu-based manufacturer of the car is betting compress like the Swift and SX4 win customers both at home and in the growing markets in India and Europe, where diesel vehicles account for more than half of the market.

“The new investment amount highlights Suzuki’s aggressiveness,” said Shinya Naruse, an auto analyst at Nomura Securities Co. “diesel engines for Japanese car manufacturers such as environmental regulations tighten.”

Diesel engines emit about 20% less carbon dioxide than gasoline engines. But particles of engines, the high-sulfur diesel aggravates asthma and other respiratory problems and creates more smog, according to the United States Environmental Protection Agency.

Suzuki is diesel engines crowned in the plant, which has an annual production capacity of 260,000 units. The automobile manufacturer will also acquire land for parts suppliers and the construction of a delivery center in the vicinity of the plant, Suzuki’s Yamamura said.

Suzuki Swift 1.3 & 1.5 petrol and 1.3 diesel: HANDBRAKE MAY FAIL

It is possible that the parking brake cable end could detach from the trailing brake shoe lever rendering the parking brake ineffective.

Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to refit or replace the cables.

Vehicle’s VIM affected:

TSMMZA11S00103322 to TSMMZA11S00334720
TSMMZA21S00177124 to TSMMZA21S00334713
TSMMZC21S00100148 to TSMMZC21S00334774
TSMMZC91S00119890 to TSMMZC91S00334668
TSMMZA91S00118873 to TSMMZA91S00118873

Reference: R/2007/086

Suzuki Grand Vitara 1.9 Diesel: RISK OF FIRE

It has been identified that due to an improper design of the intercooler inlet hose, there is a possibility that the air/fuel mixture ratio may be incorrect within the diesel particulate filter assembly. This in the worst case may cause the diesel particulate filter to ignite.

Recalled vehicles will be fitted with a modified intercooler hose.

Vehicle’s VIM affected:

JSAJTD44V00102735 to JSAJTD44V00218932

Reference: R/2007/084

Suzuki Grand Vitara 1.9 Diesel: WIRING HARNESS MAY CHAFE RESULTING IN POSSIBLE LOSS OF ENGINE POWER

It has been identified that, due to improper insulation of a branch of the engine wiring harness. The possibility exists that the harness can chafe on the cam cover securing bolt, and sustain damage. Should this occur, a possible sudden loss of engine power might ensue.

Subject vehicles will have the engine wiring harness inspected, and repaired as necessary, before being fitted with a protective cover.

Vehicle’s VIM affected:

JSAJTD44V00103047 to JSAJTD44V00211187

Reference: R/2007/102

Suzuki Grand Vitara 1.9 Diesel: RISK OF FIRE

It has been identified that the intercooler has been improperly designed. This may allow the intercooler to come apart in use, causing an improper mixture ratio of air/fuel in the diesel particulate filter. In the worst case, the particulate filter may ignite.

Recalled vehicles will be fitted with an engine intercooler attachment assembly.

Vehicle’s VIM affected:

JSAJTD44V00102735 to JSAJTD44V00218932
JSAJTA44V00100031 to JSAJTD44V00208913

Reference: R/2007/085

“We have thoroughly enjoyed a great season so far driving for Suzuki GB, the camaraderie and spirit within the team is fantastic and the Swift Sport is ultra reliable and great fun to drive. Joanne and I are loving this opportunity, it’s like a dream, we really don’t want the season to end,” said delighted Smith at the Pickering Showground finish.

Both girls were called up by Suzuki GB Team boss Ian Robinson at the start of the year to campaign the new Swift Sport rally car in both the Tesco 99 Octane MSA British Rally Championship and the Irish Tarmac Championship. Despite a few brushes with the scenery, Lorna’s superb combination of speed and reliability have already secured her the Irish Group N2 and Ladies’ title.

A delighted Ian Robinson said: “It’s fantastic that Lorna and Joanne have won the British Ladies’ title to add to their Irish wins. The teams focus now is on Wales Rally GB at the end of November with the objective of securing the British Rally Class R2 Championship, and we still have an outside chance of securing the Manufacturers title too.”

Both crews reported early problems, with the revised gravel control tyre significantly reducing grip and the top speed of the cars. James also lost 2 minutes on stage one with gear selection problems.

Team manager Ian Robinson commented: “After stage one our hopes of posting a good result looked decidedly bleak, but both James and Lorna pushed on throughout the day, and the strength and reliability of the Suzuki Swift Sport N2 cars came to the fore, as one by one our main opponents fell by the wayside.”

This result means that Dealer Team Suzuki now heads for Wales Rally GB with the objective of securing the British Rally class R2 championship, with Lorna in 1st position and James 2nd.

The Suzuki automobile stand will have a “Small Cars for a Big Future” theme reflecting the huge future possibilities that we envisage for compact cars. Each of our exhibits will embody the unique spirit and technological prowess that have made Suzuki the leading name in compact-car design and production.

Our automobile press briefing is scheduled to take place at 14:30 JST (GMT+9:00) on 24 October. A brief preview of some of the vehicles we will be presenting is given in this release.

Selected Exhibits

Concept Vehicles

Concept Kizashi 2
After wowing the car world with the Concept Kizashi at the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show, Suzuki will be unveiling the Concept Kizashi 2, a crossover sports wagon whose design conveys the dynamism of a top athlete and inspires a powerful sense of excitement.

Conceived for energetic people in activities ranging from business to leisure, the Concept Kizashi 2 has an emotionally appealing shape that reflects a dual focus on status and vitality in a way that generates excitement about its performance and heightens the pleasure of ownership.

Under the bonnet, a 3.6L V6 engine – the highest-displacement engine ever used by Suzuki – is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission for powerful-feeling acceleration and class-eclipsing performance during high-speed cruising. For superior environmental performance, Suzuki is pursuing solutions such as hybrid technologies.

Sustainable Mobility (PIXY + SSC “Suzuki Sharing Coach”)
Suzuki has a new people-centred vehicle concept called Sustainable Mobility, which is realised by a one-person low-speed transport device called the PIXY and a minicar-based mobility unit called the SSC, which forms an automobile when the PIXY is paired with it. The PIXY and SSC together deliver personal, shareable urban transportation in line with the Japanese Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry’s Next-Generation Vehicle and Fuel Initiative, which is aimed at realising the world’s most people-centred motorised society.

PIXY
The PIXY is a one-person transport device based on a concept of “friendly” mobility. Moving at low speeds on footpaths and inside buildings, it’s enjoyably easy to operate even for people who can’t drive conventional cars. It can be paired with the SSC for even greater possibilities.

SSC
The SSC is a minicar-based mobility unit with which the PIXY is mated to form an automobile. It can hold a maximum of two PIXYs. It’s not the only type of unit with which the PIXY can be coupled; to accommodate other lifestyle situations, the PIXY can also be paired with a sports-car unit called the SSF and with a boat unit called the SSJ. The result is an entirely new kind of personal mobility and sharing system.

X-HEAD
The X-HEAD is a cross-utility vehicle that offers unprecedented possibilities. With DNA reflecting the rough-road performance and toughness of the Jimny and Grand Vitara (Escudo) and the load-carrying capability of the Carry, it’s the epitome of functional dependability and fun. Its name signifies diverse new potential for accommodating the lifestyles and priorities of users.

A key feature of the X-HEAD is that it can hold various load-bed units for diverse purposes. For instance, it can hold a unit called the Camper, which allows two adults to sleep in comfort, a unit called the Fashion, which provides stylish urban mobility, or a unit called the Rescue, which is designed for rescue operations in a wide range of road conditions.

PALETTE
The PALETTE is a minicar that’s aimed at parents who cherish time with their children and at youngsters who like having fun with friends. Combining emotionally appealing styling with a cabin that’s roomy enough for four people, it delivers a level of comfort that’s unprecedented among minivehicles. Plus, it has revolutionary packaging in which left- and right-hand powered sliding doors and a low, flat floor promote convenience for diverse lifestyle situations.

Overseas Production Model

Splash
The Splash is a world strategic model to be launched by Suzuki in Europe scheduled for spring 2008 to enhance its sales potential of the compact-car segment. Aimed at families who enjoy active lifestyles, it combines an exciting colour scheme with a fresh design and an enjoyable driving experience.

Rally Car

SX4 WRC 2007
The SX4 WRC is ready for its debut in the Rallye de France, where it will make its first run under real competition conditions. It will later run in the Wales Rally GB – its last test before Suzuki begins its first full World Rally Championship season in January 2008.

Leg information:
Stages: 4 (85.66 kms competitive total)
Surface: Asphalt
Weather: Dry, cool in the morning with temperatures rising

Suzuki driver P-G Andersson has won the Junior Championship classification on the Catalunya Rally, setting up a thrilling title showdown with his team mate Urmo Aava on the final round in Corsica – which takes place in just one week’s time. Both Suzuki drivers are now tied on 38 points, meaning that it will be a straight fight to the finish. Aava was third in Catalunya, having led the event on the opening day despite mixed weather conditions. He then picked up a puncture on SS8, which cost nearly two minutes, and P-G took the lead. Both of the Suzuki Swift Super 1600s were entirely reliable throughout the 352 competitive kilometres of the rally.

News from P-G Andersson (S):
P-G Andersson (1st in JRC after SS18): “Today I concentrated on making it to the finish safely and keeping the car on the road. I didn’t want any more excitement than we had already! My chances of winning the championship are 50-50 now, so we have to be flat-out in Corsica. Urmo drove very well here: I did not actually expect him to be quite so quick. After he had his puncture on day two I was able to slow down a bit, and concentrate on refining some of my car settings for Corsica. After three days of asphalt driving here in Spain, we should be well-prepared for the challenge of Corsica. I think it will be an epic fight, which is great for the sport!”

News from Urmo Aava (EE):
Urmo Aava (3rd in JRC after SS18): “I started the day more than a minute behind P-G but just 14 seconds off second place, so I knew that it would be possible to try and capture it. Unfortunately I had a spin on the second stage today that cost me about eight seconds. This made my job much harder for the two stages that remained. The 14-second gap made too risky to push really hard, so I just drove at my own pace to the end. It’s a pity that I had my puncture yesterday as things were looking good, but that’s just part of rallying so there’s no point in thinking much about it. Nothing is lost as now we go to Corsica with an equal chance of winning the championship.”

News from Nobuhiro ‘Monster’ Tajima, team principal:
“Congratulations to P-G and Urmo, who have set up a thrilling finale to this year’s Junior Championship! It was a shame that Urmo had his puncture on Saturday, but this is what you risk when you push hard on a complex rally like Catalunya. Corsica could be even more difficult, and any mistake will certainly be even more costly. Both our drivers will be under a lot of pressure, but to triumph they need to finish: I wish them both luck and may the best man win!”

Junior Rally Championship classification after SS18, Catalunya Rally:
1 P-G Andersson (Suzuki Swift S1600) 3h44m24.5s
2 Martin Prokop (Citroen C2 S1600) +33.9s
3 Urmo Aava (Suzuki Swift S1600) +39.9s
4 Josef Beres (Renault Clio S1600) +3m39.4s
5 Conrad Rautenbach (Citroen C2 S1600) +4m59.8s
6 Jaan Molder (Suzuki Swift S1600) +8m59.5s
7 Aaron Burkart (Citroen C2 S1600) +10m39.6s
8 Yoann Bonato (Citroen C2-R2) +12m38.9s

Junior Rally Championship after Catalunya Rally (round 6 of 7):
1 P-G Andersson (Suzuki) 38
2 Urmo Aava (Suzuki) 38
3 Martin Prokop (Citroen) 24
4 Jaan Molder (Suzuki) 20
5 Patrick Sandell (Renault) 19
6 Josef Beres (Renault) 18
7 Aaron Burkart (Citroen) 16
8 Conrad Rautenbach (Citroen) 15

Both Suzuki Swift Sport 1600 Group N2 cars finished the Cork International Rally in 1st and 2nd position in class after 2 days on the variable and challenging tarmac surfaces in and around Cork.

Lorna Smith and Joanne Oakey also picked up the award for the best female crew.  

Commenting on the result, Team Manager Ian Robinson said: “We have achieved our first goal by winning the Irish Tarmac Championship. This result is testament to a fine team effort, a strong car, piloted by two competitive and experienced crews, and supported by a professional service crew. This result would not have been possible without the backing of our sister company Suzuki Ireland who we thank for their support.” 

Dealer Team Suzuki now heads off to the Yorkshire International Rally on 6th October, the next round of The British Rally Championship, with the aim of maintaining their slender lead in class R2. Ian Robinson said: “This will be a difficult task, but with the final round at Wales Rally GB scoring double points, we are in a good position to challenge for the title.”

The Suzuki automobile booth will have a “Small Cars for a Big Future” theme reflecting the huge future possibilities that we envisage for compact cars. Each of our exhibits will embody the unique spirit and technological prowess that have made Suzuki the leading name in compact-car design and production.

Our automobile press briefing is scheduled to take place at 14:00 JST (GMT+9:00) on 24 October. A brief preview of some of the vehicles we will be presenting is given in this release.

Automobiles

Selected Exhibits

Concept Vehicles

• Concept Kizashi 2

After wowing the car world with the Concept Kizashi at the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show, Suzuki will be unveiling the Concept Kizashi 2, a crossover sports wagon whose design conveys the dynamism of a top athlete and inspires a powerful sense of excitement.

Conceived for energetic people in activities ranging from business to leisure, the Concept Kizashi 2 has an emotionally appealing shape that reflects a dual focus on status and vitality in a way that generates excitement about its performance and heightens the pleasure of ownership.

Under the bonnet, a 3.6L V6 engine-the highest-displacement engine ever used by Suzuki-is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission for powerful-feeling acceleration and class-eclipsing performance during high-speed cruising. For superior environmental performance, Suzuki is pursuing solutions such as hybrid technologies.

• Sustainable Mobility (PIXY + SSC “Suzuki Sharing Coach” )

Suzuki has a new people-centred vehicle concept called Sustainable Mobility, which is realized by a one-person low-speed transport device called the PIXY and a minicar-based mobility unit called the SSC, which forms an automobile when the PIXY is paired with it. The PIXY and SSC together deliver personal, shareable urban transportation in line with the Japanese Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry’s Next-Generation Vehicle and Fuel Initiative, which is aimed at realizing the world’s most people-centred motorized society.

PIXY

The PIXY is a one-person transport device based on a concept of “friendly” mobility. Moving at low speeds on footpaths and inside buildings, it’s enjoyably easy to operate even for people who can’t drive conventional cars. It can be paired with the SSC for even greater possibilities.

SSC

The SSC is a minicar-based mobility unit with which the PIXY is mated to form an automobile. It can hold a maximum of two PIXYs. It’s not the only type of unit with which the PIXY can be coupled; to accommodate other lifestyle situations, the PIXY can also be paired with a sports-car unit called the SSF and with a boat unit called the SSJ. The result is an entirely new kind of personal mobility and sharing system.

• X-HEAD

The X-HEAD is a cross-utility vehicle that offers unprecedented possibilities. With DNA reflecting the rough-road performance and toughness of the Jimny and Grand Vitara (Escudo) and the load-carrying capability of the Carry, it’s the epitome of functional dependability and fun. Its name signifies diverse new potential for accommodating the lifestyles and priorities of users.

A key feature of the X-HEAD is that it can hold various load-bed units for diverse purposes. For instance, it can hold a unit called the Camper, which allows two adults to sleep in comfort, a unit called the Fashion, which provides stylish urban mobility, or a unit called the Rescue, which is designed for rescue operations in a wide range of road conditions.

• PALETTE

The PALETTE is a minicar that’s aimed at parents who cherish time with their children and at youngsters who like having fun with friends. Combining emotionally appealing styling with a cabin that’s roomy enough for four people, it delivers a level of comfort that’s unprecedented among minivehicles. Plus, it has revolutionary packaging in which left- and right-hand powered sliding doors and a low, flat floor promote convenience for diverse lifestyle situations.

Overseas Production Model

• Splash

The Splash is a world strategic model to be launched by Suzuki in Europe scheduled for spring 2008 to enhance its sales potential of the compact-car segment. Aimed at families who enjoy active lifestyles, it combines an exciting colour scheme with a fresh design and an enjoyable driving experience.

Rally Car

• SX4 WRC 2007

The SX4 WRC is ready for its debut in the Rallye de France, where it will make its first run under real competition conditions. It will later run in the Wales Rally GB-its last test before Suzuki begins its first full World Rally Championship season in January 2008.

Electric Wheelchair (Reference Exhibit)

• MIO

The MIO is a fuel-cell-powered electric wheelchair that Suzuki unveiled at the 2006 International Home Care and Rehabilitation Exhibition. At the 2007 Tokyo Motor Show, we will be showing a model with heightened fuel-cell performance and a more elegant design.

Motorcycles

Selected Exhibits

Reference Exhibits

• Biplane

Feel the joy of riding motorcycle! Look at this motorcycle! This concept model “The Biplane” communicates the joy of two-wheel mobility through a design that was uniquely inspired by the feeling of flying or piloting an aeroplane, which gives motorcyclists a similarity feeling while riding bikes. Despite being a modern machine, it gives a great feeling of openness-thanks to a shape that has a biplane - no canopy - motif, which was always giving softer, human-friendly and warm feeling to us. It’s powered by a V4 engine.

• crosscage

The crosscage is a fuel-cell motorcycle in which a simple, compact, lightweight air-cooled fuel-cell system and a high-performance secondary battery are brought together in a way that realizes optimal power control. A fuel-cell unit from British specialist company Intelligent Energy delivers quick activation with low fuel consumption, and a lithium-ion battery combines safety with a low environmental burden. The simplicity, compactness, and lightness of these technologies not only make the crosscage environment-friendly; they also helped enable sporty styling befitting the Suzuki name.

• Hayabusa 1300 (GSX1300R)

The Hayabusa has been Suzuki’s flagship “ultimate” sportbike in worldwide since we launched it in first-generation form in 1999. With the unique package of its distinctive styling and overwhelming engine performance which is described as “the effortless” performance, it’s consistently popular. For 2008, a full model change has further evolved its styling for even better aerodynamics while achieving better rider protection. Notably, Suzuki worked in line with a “one piece” concept of treating the rider as an element of the bike’s aerodynamic characteristics, taking the rider’s position into careful account in pursuit of aerodynamic advances. At the same time, we increased the engine displacement to enhance engine performance. The overall result is a bike that looks and performs like nothing else on two wheels. Note: The new Hayabusa is already available in North America and Europe.

• B-King

The concept becomes reality. Unveiled in concept form at the 2001 Tokyo Motor Show, the B-King is Suzuki’s flagship big naked bike. The production model is completely faithful to the concept seen in 2001 but embodies new functions such as S-DMS, and performance advances that make it even more appealing to riders. Strikingly distinctive body styling gives the B-King overwhelming visual presence, and Suzuki’s latest performance technologies give it a motorcycle with powerful styling to match its strong personality. Built with genuine Suzuki DNA. Note: The B-King is already available in North America and Europe.

• Three-Dimensional-Cam Engine (Reference Technology Exhibit)

First seen at the 2003 Tokyo Motor Show, Suzuki’s three-dimensional-cam engine is a technology proposal for making more effective use of limited natural resources. Its three-dimensional cams continuously adjust the engine’s operating characteristics over the entire range of operating conditions from low speeds and low loading to high speeds and high loading, resulting in optimal fuel efficiency and power at all times. Compared with a conventional engine of the same size, it gives 20% better fuel economy and up to 6% higher torque across the rev range. Further, it has no throttle valve and thus runs with significantly lower pumping losses.

• Other Reference Exhibits

• Big bikes
• Mopeds
• Racing bikes
• Overseas production models

Thank you.

Team Principal of the Suzuki World Rally Team
Nobuhiro Tajima
President of Suzuki Sport Co., Ltd.

First name:          Nicolas
Last name:          Bernardi
Nationality:          France
Date of birth:       16th May, 1977
Debut year:         1996
Results:              1998 Rallye Automobile de Monte-Carlo
2004 FIA Junior World Rally Championship, 2 pos.
2005 FIA World Rally Championship, 20 pos.            First name:         Sebastian
Last name:         Lindholm
Nationality:         Finland
Date of birth:       30th January, 1961
Debut year:        1982
Results:             1984 1000 Lakes Rally
1997-2005 Neste Rally Finland
2006 8th Finnish Rally Championship

Co-pilot’s profiles
First name:         Jean-Marc
Last name:         Fortin
Nationality:         Belgium
Date of birth:       4th July, 1968
Debut year:        1988
Results:             1990 1000 Lakes Rally A7cl, 5 pos.
2004 FIA JWRC (with Nicolas Bernardi)
2005 FIA WRC (with Nicolas Bernardi)            

First name:         Tomi
Last name:         Tuominen
Nationality:         Finland
Date of birth:       8th November, 1971
Results:             1999 Neste Rally Finland
2004/2005 Neste Rally Finland
2006 Rally d’Italia Sardegna, 6 pos.

Dealer Team Suzuki now travels to Cork for the last round of the Irish Tarmac Championship with the two cars in 1st and 2nd position in class N2 and still with the opportunity of winning the British Rally Championship class R2 with the Trackrod and Wales Rally GB rounds remaining.

Maruti Suzuki India was established in 1983 and by the end of March, 2007 had produced 6.4 million vehicles making it India’s largest motor manufacturer by a substantial margin.

In the year to March, 2006, the company’s share of the Indian Domestic market stood at 54.6% with substantial exports to countries close to India as well as to Latin America, Asia and Africa.

Maruti Suzuki has 4,700 employees based at its original plant at Gurgaon and at an all new plant at Manesar which opened in 2006 to meet steadily rising demand for its products.  The Gurgaon plant is built on a site of 1.2 million square metres whilst that at Manesar has a total site area of 2.4 million square metres.  The combined built area of both plants is 380,000 square metres [almost 4.1 million square feet].

Maruti Suzuki’s production facilities are currently being further expanded to accommodate production of new models and this will enable exports to Europe and other overseas markets to be increased.  By 2009 production capacity will be 960,000 units annually, representing a further investment of almost £900,000,000 [200,000 million Yen].

As part of this expansion a new diesel engine plant has been established producing engines under licence from Fiat Powertrain. Diesel engines from this new plant – also at Manesar - will be supplied to Magyar Suzuki, Suzuki’s Hungarian subsidiary, for installation in the new Suzuki Splash.

The diesel engine plant currently has around 600 employees [March, 2007]. 

Drivers will be competing in Suzuki Swift Sports powered by a 1.6VVT engine and built by the works Monster Sport Europe team. These are identical to the class-winning cars used on the BRC this year by 2006 S1600 Champion, James Wozencroft and Lorna Smith.

Uniquely, competitors will be able to lease their car for a small monthly outlay which will also cover factory re-preparation after each round, transport to and from events, a Swift Sport awning and ground sheet, factory support with technical advice and on-event parts supply. There will also be the option to purchase the car at the end of the season less any payments already made, effectively offering HP on a rally car!

The Swift Sport Cup is part of Suzuki’s 5 year worldwide marketing campaign and will be featured in a half hour stand alone TV Series. The overall winner can choose between a fully-funded drive on the 2008 Wales Rally GB in a Suzuki Swift S1600 car or, if they are still battling it out for overall British class championship points on WRGB, a brand new Suzuki Swift Sport road car as well as a fully-funded WRGB drive in their own Suzuki Swift Sport Cup car.

Entering in the BRC Rally 1 class, Swift Sport Cup competitors will not only enjoy British Rally Championship class prize money and be eligible for selection in the 2008 Pirelli Star Driver competition but Suzuki will be offering their own cash incentives and rewards too.

Suzuki GB Product and Events Manager Ian Robinson said: ‘We have worked hard to create a series which will be ultra-competitive as well as cost-effective, a balance rarely found in motorsport.  We are confident that we have done that and hope to make more announcements in the coming weeks to add to what is already a very exciting opportunity.’

‘Suzuki have been great supporters of the BRC,’ comments British Rally Championship Manager Mark Taylor. ‘They have been providing a ladder for talent over the past few years. The innovative way that the cars are available means that people who may never have been able to compete at this level now can, it’s a great starter package that can only be good for unveiling the great talent we have in British rallying.’

Two recent test days for prospective competitors provided incredibly positive feedback and further customer evaluation dates will be announced soon. Those wishing to register an interest should e-mail the Suzuki Swift Sport Cup Championship Manager, Ian Phillipson at swiftsportcup@rallybrc.co.uk

Benefits for Competitors

• The only manufacturer-backed one-make rally series in the UK.
• The Championship is part of BRC and will include the Pirelli, Jim Clark, Isle of Man, Ulster and Trackrod rallies, as well as the season finale Tempest Rally.
• Best five from six round scores count.
• Stand-alone 30-minute TV programme after each round.
• Dealer cup to encourage support from across the Suzuki network.
• Suzuki Swift Sport Cup branded overalls and Eeze-up and groundsheet supplied free to all registered drivers.  This will enhance the high-profile servicing village at each round.
• Unique lease rental plan to reduce outlay.
• Arrive and drive concept including factory preparation of each car to ensure highest possible reliability and equality. Competitors only need to bring a van and mechanics to each event. Full technical support provided at each event. Discounted OE parts and free products from championship partners.
• Cars transported to each event making significant savings on ferries.
• Generous start and prize money on every round including bonus for competitors who start all six rounds.
• Two test days (one gravel, one tarmac) included for all competitors.
• Training day for drivers, co-drivers and mechanics in early March 2008.
• Championship winner to receive a prize of a fully funded drive on 2008 Wales Rally GB in a Suzuki Swift Super 1600, or brand-new Suzuki Swift road car & a supported drive in competitor’s own Suzuki Swift Sport Cup car on 2008 Wales Rally GB.
• All competitors eligible for BRC prize fund and championships in addition to SSSC prizes.
• Junior series champion receives guaranteed place in 2008 Pirelli Start Driver selection final.
• All competitors eligible for 2008 Pirelli Start Driver selection on each event.
• Full support of Suzuki GB press office including web presence.
• Long-term support from Suzuki GB, the only manufacturer with presence at all levels of rallying – BRC, JRC, WRC (from 2008).