Bond girl gives Grand Vitara starring role

AUTUMN 2013
Bond girl gives
Grand Vitara
starring role
ALSO INSIDE:
Changing of
the guard
at Suzuki
New GW250
road bike
arrives
The house
that love
built
Netballers
driven to
succeed
Splash hits
the road for
charity
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06
Contents
Welcome
There are times in our lives when we feel
very lucky to be doing what we’re doing.
Last month I started my new job as CEO for
Suzuki New Zealand, a company with whom
I have had the pleasure of working for over
30 years.
I am immensely proud of what we have
achieved as a company, particularly over
the past decade. It has not been without its
trials: this is a very small market by world
standards, but the choice of new car – and
motorcycle – models on offer is quite
staggering.
While you might say we are spoiled for
choice, we are also, I believe, spoiled for
quality. The three new Swifts released in
March are a good example of that, especially
when you consider the string of awards Swift
has earned since its debut almost nine years
ago. It’s still winning awards and we are
still finding little ways to improve the driver
experience.
We are also thrilled that we have
been awarded the Roy Morgan Customer
Satisfaction award for the second year in
succession. That means that new Suzuki
owners appreciate the effort we make to
make sure they are happy with their vehicle,
even long after they leave the showroom.
During my time at the helm, I plan
to make sure we focus on quality and
remain at the top of the table for customer
satisfaction. In other words, I look forward to
continuing what has already been achieved
by the current team led, of course, by Bill
Grice. I know it will be a hard act to follow.
TOM PECK
CEO – SUZUKI NEW ZEALAND
04 SUZUKI NOW NEWS
06 RACHEL GRANT – BOND GIRL
09 NEW 250 ROAD BIKE
10 RMCH WELLINGTON – THE HOUSE THAT LOVE BUILT
12 10 MINUTES WITH CODY COOPER
13 DRIVING THE HAIER PULSE
14 THE WAY WE WERE
Suzuki NOW is produced and published
by Suzuki New Zealand Limited. For
enquiries regarding publication or
content, or if you wish to no longer
receive this magazine, please refer to
the ‘contact us’ section of our website
www.suzuki.co.nz or write to us at
1 Heads Road, Wanganui, New Zealand.
15 RALLYING SWIFTLY INTO THE FUTURE
16 THREE NEW SWIFTS
17 SPOTLIGHT ON MOTORCYCLES
18 SPLASH SUPPORTS LEUKAEMIA & BLOOD CANCER NZ
19 NEW WAIKATO DEALERSHIPS
19 WIN A SWIFT WITH THE VODAFONE WARRIORS
12
15
FOR THE LATEST SUZUKI NEWS FROM HERE AND OVERSEAS VISIT
WWW.SUZUKI.CO.NZ OR FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK.COM/SUZUKINZ
suzuki now ■ autumn 2013
3
The changing of the guard
and illustrious career for Suzuki New Zealand
purchased the Coleman group of companies
New GSX-R celebrates
a million sales
CEO, Bill Grice. After 35 years, Bill has
and formed Suzuki New Zealand Ltd. Bill
One million is a staggering number.
decided to retire and leave the business in
began his rise through the ranks from
Perhaps even more so when you
the safe hands of ex-Manager of Marketing,
Technical Manager, to Marketing Manager,
consider that’s the number of Suzuki
Tom Peck, also a long serving Suzuki man.
General Manager and finally, CEO in 2000.
GSX-R series motorcycles manufactured
The end of March marked the end of a long
Then in 1984, Suzuki Motor Corporation
“Tom has good knowledge and skill,” said
“I know I am leaving the company in
Bill during a recent media interview. “He also
good hands and confidently predict that
has considerable experience working within
Suzuki will continue to go from strength to
the worldwide Suzuki organisation, which is
strength under Tom’s guidance,” said Bill at
very important for anyone moving into this
his recent farewell.
since the highly successful model’s
inception in 1985.
For Bill, this is definitely retirement with
role.”
Well respected for his ability to work with
“no other projects lined up”. Apart, that
a wide variety of people within the industry,
is, from his passions for hunting, fishing,
and for his broad technical, marketing and
boating and a bit of travel. It’s hard to
retailing knowledge, Bill will be missed not
imagine, but it sounds like Bill is about
only at Suzuki, but in the wider New Zealand
to start taking it easy. We wish him all
motor industry.
the best. g
The new GSX-R1000Z limited edition
is a celebration of the millionth GSX-R
“My time at Suzuki has been a wonderful
journey,” said Bill. “I have been surrounded
by great staff and a solid dealer network.
I am very proud of our success,” he said,
and with only 10 available throughout
Bill Grice
Doing more of
the things he
loves best
NZ, we expect to find these quickly
leaving dealers’ floors as collectors
making special mention of the part played by
and enthusiasts snap them up. As a
the many good people who worked with him.
road-legal race replica, the prefix GSX-R
Bill’s career at Suzuki began in the
stands for perfor-
marine products retail shop for Colemans,
mance without
the original distributors for Suzuki products
compromise. In
in New Zealand. In 1982 he transferred to
full race form, the
the wholesale division (South Pacific Suzuki
results speak for
Distributors) as Suzuki Motorcycle Technical
themselves. g
Manager.
tinyurl.com/ctb55s9
Number Crunching
50
WATCH VIDEO
MILLION
11
179
The number of vehicles
produced by Suzuki since 1955
The number of countries where
Suzukis are now being built
Countries or regions where
Suzukis are now being sold
9505 new vehicles were
2705 was the largest
6880 passenger car
2 Swift is still the second
registered in NZ in March – an
11.5% jump on last year
registrations in March. A rise
of 4.6%, the third best monthly
sales figure since 1990
33.3 percent rise in
commercial registrations
number of commercial vehicles
sold in March since 1985
biggest selling passenger car in
NZ after Toyota Corolla
1 Swift remains New Zealand's
favourite supermini
Source: Motor Industry Association (MIA) statistics March 2013
4
suzuki now ■ autumn 2013
SUZUKI NOW | NEWS
We’re happy you’re happy
The most rewarding prize in the Suzuki trophy cabinet is topping the Roy Morgan Customer
Satisfaction Awards to win Car Manufacturer of the Year 2012. This is a significant
achievement as it recognises much more than the features and popularity of our vehicles.
As New Zealand’s largest on-going, single-source survey, the Roy Morgan Award asks
customers to rate a product purely on service and ownership experience. Suzuki beat its own
record from last year by winning nine out of the twelve months with an average customer
satisfaction rating of 96.4 percent. We believe this success is due as much to our transparent,
Real Value pricing and ownership benefits as it is to the obvious enthusiasm for our cars. g
And the awards keep coming...
The awards and accolades continue for New Zealand’s favourite supermini.
The flagship 1.6 litre Swift Sport was named Small Car of the Year at the AMI
Insurance New Zealand Autocar Car of the Year Awards for 2012, a relatively short
time after the model was launched in the local market. Applauded as the ultimate
expression of Swift’s DNA, it has already received several European Awards.
Swift was also the small car winner in the prestigious 2012 Automobile
Association New Zealand Motoring Writers Car of the Year Award. The annual
AA awards are particularly significant as they are judged by independent voting
members from the Guild of Motoring Writers.
In all, Swift has won a total of 63 car-of-the-year awards across 19 countries
Bugden Reclaims Title
since its initial launch nearly nine years ago. Production of Swift has now exceeded
the 3 million mark worldwide. g
Australian Robbie Bugden stayed cool in
scorching conditions to retain his Kiwi
Superbike crown at the fifth and final round
of this season’s New Zealand Superbike
Championships at Taupo at the end of March.
The Brisbane-based defending champion,
riding his Triple R Suzuki GSX-R1000, started
with a solid lead in the championship standings and beat off Feilding’s Craig Shirriffs and
Dennis Charlett. Both second and third riders
were also on Suzuki GSX-R1000’s making it a
clean sweep for Suzuki. g
Jimny’s Ultimate
World Challenge
On March 31, five retired avid Suzuki
fans started a 28,000 mile fundraising
tour around the world in aid of Save the
Children and the Oakhaven Hospice in
Lymington, Hampshire, UK.
The team chose Jimnys for the trip
as they wanted to prove that the huge
five-month journey could be achieved
in low-cost, compact 4x4 vehicles with
a very strong record of durability around
the world.
Led by retired businessman Leslie
Carvall, the crew are all in their 70s and
together they devised the humorous – and
very fitting – strapline, Heaven Can
Wait, I’m Busy.
The Jimnys are largely standard
specification apart from additional
luggage racks, all-terrain tyres,
modified springs and dampers,
and heavy duty front and rear
bumpers.
Further information on the trip will be
published in due course and updates can be
found on www.heavencanwaitimbusy.com
and also on Facebook and Twitter.
Story courtesy of Suzuki UK.
suzuki now ■ autumn 2013
5
My friends always say I’m like the real life
Indiana Jones or Lara Croft, but better
because I actually do these things. I’ve
swum with sharks, been to the Galápagos,
scuba dived – the real kind of Bond Girl.
6
suzuki now ■ autumn 2013
Rachel Grant
Not shaken,
but definitely
stirred
Bond Girl, beauty queen, and daring stuntwoman… these
are all fair descriptions of Hollywood actress Rachel Grant.
But what you realise when you meet her is that glamour is
a very small part of what makes Rachel such a star.
Suzuki NOW had the chance to find that
double for Angelina Jolie in the film ‘Tomb
out recently when the adventure-seeking
Raider’. An accomplished martial artist, Rachel
actress spent ten days driving around New
displayed her skills at the Bond audition with
Zealand in a Grand Vitara. Rachel was here to
an impromptu nunchaku demonstration. Four
help promote ‘Making A Difference’, a book
days later she was on set with Pierce Brosnan,
originally conceived by Wellington author and
who had seen the audition and insisted Rachel
Y-Stories founder, Wheldon Curzon-Hobson.
be given the coveted role.
Rachel wrote several of the stories that
feature in the book, stories about the people
THE REAL KIND OF BOND GIRL
and organisations she’s met on her travels.
Rachel admitted her adventurous side isn’t
And it seems the talented 36-year-old is quite
limited to the silver screen.
an inspiration herself.
“My friends always say I’m like the real life
Indiana Jones or Lara Croft, but better because
AN UNFORGETTABLE INTRODUCTION
I actually do these things. I’ve swum with
Rachel Grant first grabbed the world’s
sharks, been to the Galápagos, scuba dived –
attention a decade ago in ‘Die Another Day’ as
the real kind of Bond Girl”, said Rachel.
sultry would-be assassin, Peaceful Fountains
“I do love to dress up – I’ve always liked
of Desire. She’d already begun her screen
doing that – but at the same time I walk round
career as the host of a high-rating horror
barefoot, or I’ll be in the jungle. And I’m not
show, starred in a number of TV commercials,
bothered if I scrape myself, get a bruise or
and had just finished working as a body
what-have-you.”
suzuki now ■ autumn 2013
7
AN ACT OF CHARITY
Charity also forms a large part of Rachel’s
off-screen life. The Padua Charitable Fund was
originally co-founded by her mother, Isabel Padua
Grant, to help build housing for poor families in the
Philippines. It was through this charity that Rachel
met Wheldon, whose book ‘Inspired by Manila’ had
been written after he first visited the slums.
“A lot of the stories in the ‘Making a Difference’
Rachel is
passionate
about helping
poor families
in the slums
of Philippines,
especially when
it involves
working with
children.
book are about New Zealanders having an idea, or
working with the community – applying their skills
and being hands on,” says Rachel. “It’s quite nice
here that if someone is willing to lend a hand it’s not
because they want something in return. It’s quite
refreshing to come across that in the world and it’s
becoming harder and harder to find that now.”
RACHEL’S GRAND ADVENTURE IN
NEW ZEALAND
Rachel has been driving since she was 15 and
Left: Rachel
visits a Filipino
community
bee project
and meets the
Filipino President
at the US White
House.
obviously enjoys it. She’s done a few rallies
including the famous Bullrun rally, an annual event
where vehicles compete over several days and
traverse 3,000–4,000 miles. It turns out she’s quite
the stunt driver too, which she demonstrated with
180 degree spin turns and spectacular crashes in
the 2009 movie, The Tournament. She’d had no
formal training but her experience had led the
director to assume she was a professional.
Rachel says she was thrilled to hear Suzuki had
provided the new Grand Vitara for her New Zealand
adventure and was even more impressed after a
week of travel.
“I have a 4x4 where I live because it’s my
kind of car. It gets grubby at the back, I can throw
everything in it – kayak on top – and my oars across
the windows.”
It helps that Grand Vitara has plenty of space
inside too.
“I’ve got luggage for 2 months of travel, and
Wheldon’s been travelling too, and we’ve been able
to get it all in the back.”
Talented, capable, exciting, adventurous, but still
remarkably humble at heart, it’s her down-to-earth
attitude that sums up Rachel Grant. She’s the kind
of person that can really make a difference, because
she’s made it part of her way of life.
Making a Difference can be ordered from
www.ystories.org for $24.95. Proceeds will
be donated to Wellington Free Ambulance
and the Padua Charity Fund.
8
suzuki now ■ autumn 2013
I have a 4x4 where I live because
it’s my kind of car. It gets grubby at
the back, I can throw everything
in it – kayak on top – and my oars
across the windows.”
Quick as lightning
New 250 road bike takes
commuter market by storm
I
t should be no surprise that the new Suzuki GW250 has bolted all
the way to the second best registered motorcycle right behind the
ever-popular GN125. Even its name, Inazuma, means ‘lightning’ in
Japanese. And while it may have taken a little longer to arrive on our
shores than we had forecasted, it hasn’t wasted any time hanging about
on dealership floors.
So what is it about this runaway success that has led to it beating out
a host of other brands in the very competitive 250cc category?
All round, Inazuma represents exceptional value. It offers owners a full
size motorcycle, comfortable riding position and powerful twin cylinder
four-stroke motor for a relatively low recommended retail price of just
$5,995 plus on road costs.
Generous dimensions and a large comfortable seat are unique points
of difference making the GW250 feel like a much bigger motorcycle in
terms of personal space, no matter what your shape.
Aggressive, modernistic styling gives the GW250 a formidable
street presence, taking its appearance from the futuristic B-King.
The parallel twin cylinder four-stroke engine propels the GW
easily to the open road speed limit with plenty of motion left
Smart new GW250
comes in black or red
for only $5,995 plus on
road costs.
for overtaking whether being ridden solo or with a pillion.
Economical and quiet, the GW will surprise with its gusty
spread of torque throughout the rev range allowing riders to
meet the challenges of the open road or urban commute.
Take a test ride on the GW250 and discover that fun and
commute can actually be part of the same sentence, and that
quality doesn’t have to mean expensive.
suzuki now ■ autumn 2013
9
The house
that love built
The new Ronald McDonald House in Wellington has been open just 5 months
and already it’s welcomed 211 families through its doors. That’s the reality for
the much needed home that provides a temporary sanctuary to families as
their seriously ill children receive medical care.
“One of the hardest parts of our job is asking
10
need it most.”
The Suzuki Team got behind the project in
for money,” Fundraising and Marketing
The new Ronald McDonald House has
a couple of interesting ways. First was a
Manager for Ronald McDonald House, Lisa
enough rooms for 34 families to stay at
donation of two cars – a new Swift and a
Coory, tells us. “But turning a family in need
any one time. It incorporates a range of
Kizashi sedan. The cars were auctioned on
away from our door is even harder.”
community spaces designed to encourage
the popular on-line auction site, TradeMe,
“With the ever-increasing demand of
the supportive, caring environment that
raising over $55,000. The team then turned
families requiring our services, we had to
makes a Ronald McDonald House more than
their attention to the car park.
launch a campaign to build a bigger and
just a building. But with the total cost of the
“When our families arrive at the Ronald
brighter Ronald McDonald House that will
project budgeted for more than $15 million,
McDonald House, they are normally tired,
enable us to keep helping future generations
the House needed support from corporate
stressed and sometimes in shock. The car
of Kiwi families to be together when they
partners to make the dream a reality.
park is one of the first things families see
suzuki now ■ autumn 2013
This house rules:
28 ensuite bedrooms / 6 apartments / 4 lounges / community room /
family room / large family kitchen / volunteers’ kitchen / teenagers’ room /
children’s art room / internet room / gymnasium / expressing rooms /
reception and administration offices / media room / outdoor playground /
private outdoor area for relaxing, dining and BBQs… and the best meeting
room in town available to rent (email [email protected]).
When our families
arrive at the Ronald
McDonald House,
they are normally
tired, stressed
and sometimes in
shock. The car park
is one of the first
things families see
when they arrive
Above: Ronald
lends a hand to
build the car park
art installation.
And below, the
finished result.
when they arrive,” said Lisa.
Ronald McDonald House was extremely
To be honest, the car park did look a
grateful for the support from Suzuki. But it’s
little forlorn and unwelcoming, so Suzuki got
also true to say that Suzuki were delighted to
together with a design team from their ad
be able to do something so worthwhile in the
agency, Promotus, to transform the area.
community. Perhaps we should leave the last
“We just love the design they came up
with. The bright colours and 3D red hearts
word to Lisa on behalf of the folk at Ronald
McDonald House in Wellington.
just bring a feeling of instant relief to our
“Suzuki NZ played a big role in our House,
families, knowing that this is a House full of
helping us to reach our goal. Thanks Suzuki,
love, compassion and security during their
we truly appreciate everything you do.”
Ronald McDonald
House Wellington
volunteer or donate at
www.rmhw.org.nz
time of need.”
suzuki now ■ autumn 2013
11
with
10Cody
minutes
Cooper
Ever wondered what it’s like to be a championship
winning motocross rider? We caught up with
Cody just before he secured the 2013 NZ title
and asked him.
How old were you when you
well. Aussie tracks are always
first started racing?
dusty and not watered the
6 years old. On a Suzuki JR 50.
right way.
When did you realise all
What sort of terrain do you
you wanted to be was a
like riding in the most?
motorcycle racer, or did it just
Motocross – I love the red clay
kind of happen?
like at Pukekohe, with big ruts
My dad got me into
and lots of jumps.
motocross because he didn’t
want me riding a motorbike
What’s the funniest thing
on the road. He had some
that’s happened during a race
Yes it has, and I’m loving it.
big crashes from drivers that
you’ve been in?
I’m actually riding it fully stock
couldn’t see him. Then it just
Once, I mistook the white flag
at the moment and it’s really
happened that I ended up
(which signals the last lap) for
good for doing my long motos
doing it for my job.
the finish flag, and stopped
– the aftermarket bolt-on parts
racing. Doh!
sometimes don’t last like the
stock parts.
With motocross being one of
the most physical sports in
You’ve won the past three
the world, how many hours
Tawarea 100 Endurance
I hear you’re playing golf in
a day do you train and what
races which are not really
your spare time, how’s the
sort of training do you do?
Motocross events, what do
handicap?
Some days I will only train for
you think makes MX riders so
Haha. I’ve got the handicap
one hour, then on others it can
good at these events?
down to 11, but play under
get up to three or four. I ride
Obviously you have to be
that most times. Now that I’m
my dirt bike, I road cycle, and
really fit to race endurance,
in training I don’t really have
do gym work – they are the
but you also need to have
much time to play.
three main things. But recovery
fast reactions to judge how
is a big part of training as well.
fast or slow to take all the blind
If there’s any general advice
corners.
you could give to the up and
coming rider, what would it
How does MX in Australia
12
compare to NZ in terms of
The new RM-Z450L3 has been
be?
tracks?
in your garage for a while
I would say to just make it fun.
I really love the New Zealand
now, how does it compare to
And work hard.
tracks, when they prep them
last year’s model?
suzuki now ■ autumn 2013
Final standings in the
2013 NZ Motocross
Championships,
MX1 Class:
NZL
NZL
AUS
BILLY MACKENZIE AUS
Yamaha – 241 points SCO
NZL
SCO
1
2
WATERS
AUS
3 TODD
KTM – 235 points
SCO
DARYL HURLEY
NZL
4 Suzuki
– 182 points
MCDONALD AUS
NZL
5 JUSTIN
Honda – 174 points
SCO
CODY COOPER
Suzuki – 289 points
AUS
SCO
Driven to Succeed
Netball is dynamic, exciting and a whole heap of fun, so teaming up with Suzuki
was a no-brainer for the Haier Pulse girls and their coach Robyn Broughton.
“We will be looking for that competitive edge, those things that
add to a winning team,” says Broughton. “There is no doubt that the
won 42-49, the level of skill evident in both sides was impressive.
Broughton is keen to build on the success of last year. “We now have
support Suzuki gives to the team will help drive us toward success
the ability as a team, and there is a certain amount of pressure and
this year.”
expectation for us to perform this season,” explains Broughton.
With just three new faces in the squad, Robyn is pleased to have
General Manager of Automobile Marketing at Suzuki New Zealand,
retained the core of the group from last season. This year’s team
Gary Collins, is delighted to be associated with the team. “The Haier
will once again feature Silver Ferns Katrina Grant, Joline Henry and
Pulse team is a great fit with the Suzuki brand – we’ve already seen
Camilla Lees, as well as Caitlin Thwaites, Te Huinga Selby-Rickit, Paula
that through their relationship with Suzuki Dealer Brendan Foot. The
Griffin, Daya Wiffen, Victoria Smith, and Amber Bellringer.
time was right for us to put our full support behind the team and we
Add the single-minded
sharp-shooter, Donna Wilkins, the
determined and feisty Liana Leota,
wish them every success for the
season.”
For more information on
and highly-promising newbie
the Haier Pulse check out
Claire Kersten, and this season’s
www.pulse.org.nz or ‘like’
squad is shaping up as the most
www.facebook.com/Haier.Pulse
competitive Haier Pulse line-up
to date.
The team made a strong start
their 2013 ANZ Championship
campaign on March 24 against the
Thunderbirds in Adelaide. Although
Left: A young netballer signs the
yellow Swift that carries fans’
messages of support for the
Haier Pulse.
the Thunderbirds eventually
suzuki now ■ autumn 2013
13
The way
we were
It’s been 61 years since Suzuki
first entered the world motor
vehicle market. While a lot
has changed in the vehicles,
innovation has remained a
constant driver for the brand.
n the late 1940’s
had been increased to
the concept of
58cc (43mm x 40mm)
motorising bicycles
and alloy panels were
was gaining increasing
introduced to improve
the appearance. It also
popularity in Japan.
At the time, Suzuki was mainly a loom
had a two-speed gear system,
manufacturing company – but their first foray
with a lever operated clutch and
into the market proved so successful
that the company’s direction very
quickly changed.
Michio Suzuki’s first two-wheel
effort, the Power Free, featured a 36cc
two-stroke engine and an ingenious
double-sprocket gear system. The square
Pics clockwise from top:
1909 Suzuki automated loom
1955 Colleda motorcycle
1955 Suzulight car
1952 Power Free cycle
The cyclemotors, as they were
known, were short-lived. Mopeds
were developed as early as 1954 and
the newly named Suzuki Motor Co. turned its
attention to developing their very first cars.
The rest, as they say, is history. But it is
engine was mounted within the cycle frame
interesting to note how, then as now, big
and could be used alone, while pedalling or it
things grow from small ideas.
could be disconnected completely.
Always seeing a need,
While most competitors used army surplus
always innovating
or proprietary engines, Suzuki built all the
and exceeding
components themselves. The system was so
expectations is the
inspired, Suzuki was granted a Government
reason why Suzuki has
financial subsidy to continue their research.
remained one of the
Within a year, Suzuki had introduced a new
model: “Diamond Free”. The engine capacity
14
throttle twist-grip.
suzuki now ■ autumn 2013
world’s top automotive
brands for so long.
RADICAL SWIFT
Rallying into
the future
By David Thomson
Suzuki sponsored rally ace, Emma Gilmour, is cooking
up something very special for this season’s NZ Rally
Championship. To most of us it looks just like a souped up
Swift Sport. But what’s really going on beneath that familiar
looking body? Dunedin freelance journalist and motorsport
fan, David Thomson, went down to the workshop to find out.
For us, this season is all about developing
the car to realise its full potential.”
Emma and her team are quick to add
that the project could never have got off
the ground without generous support from
Suzuki, who not only sourced the donor
car but also provide ongoing support during
the season.
The car had its first test run at the
opening round of this year’s national
championship Otago Rally 5-7 April, running
noncompetitively as the “Zero” car. This will
be followed by scheduled championship
appearances at the Daybreaker Rally in the
Central North Island (June), the Canterbury
Rally (August), the Possum Bourne Memorial
to be transformed this year by an innovative
exhaust manifold, radiator and intercooler.
The engine has also been re-mounted
new turbo-charged, four-wheel drive rally
to sit north-south (i.e. aligned with the
car being developed by Dunedin ace driver,
front and rear of the car) rather than the
Emma Gilmour. Dubbed the Suzuki Swift
east-west configuration that is used for a
Maxi, it is the first of a new generation of
regular Swift Sport.
cars prepared to a Super Rally formula that
new machine, which will weigh in at little
this country.
more that 1200 kg and pack a 250 kW plus
competitive against the Group N production
Sport. Over the summer it has been stripped
class cars that have been the mainstay of
back and completely re-engineered as a
national rallying in recent years. She also has
state-of-the art rally car in a small upstairs
an eye to rallying the Swift Maxi overseas in
workshop at Gilmour Suzuki, Dunedin’s
the future.
The car will still be recognisable as a
“I have absolutely no doubt the car is
going to be great fun to drive, and awesome
Suzuki Swift in shape, albeit with flared
to watch as well,” Emma adds. However she
wheel arches and the like. However, as well
cautions against expectations of it being an
as being wider than a standard Swift (thanks
instant rally winner.
to a wider track and wheel arches), its
“This is a totally new and very ambitious
wheelbase has been stretched by 170 mm to
concept. We are approaching it as a three-
maximise handling.
year project, and it is going to take
Increased structural strength and
Below: Emma’s Swift Sport
before, during and after its radical
transformation into the Swift Maxi.
power-punch, has what it takes to be fully
six months ago as a stock-standard Swift
Suzuki dealership.
(September) and Rally Wairarapa (October).
Emma and Glenn are confident that the
many pick will be the future of the sport in
The Swift Maxi started life little more than
Rally in South Auckland and the West Waikato
Photos courtesy Euan Cameron
The face of New Zealand motor sport is set
several events along with some
occupant protection is provided by over 47
very targeted testing, to get
metres of chrome molly tubing, fabricated
it working exactly as it
into a massively strong roll cage. But
is meant to.
perhaps the biggest change from your
standard Swift Sport is in key sub-frame
and suspension components, an imported
competition gearbox and front and rear
limited slip differentials.
In the engine bay the standard 1.6 litre
engine has been bored out to 1.8 litres with
a Garrett turbocharger and custom-made
suzuki now ■ autumn 2013
15
SWIFT GL AUTO
SWIFT SPORT 3 DR
SWIFT SE SPECIAL EDITION
Three new Swifts
& smart new pricing
Although competition is hotting up, Swift continues to be a clear favourite in
the small car market. The introduction of three new models and lower pricing
on the entry model Swift GL should see another great year for the model.
T
he first of the new models for 2013 is
actually the current Swift GL, but now
Which brings us to the new Swift Sport
with automatic transmission. This is
3-door manual. It’s smartly priced to win
seen as significant because, while an
over existing and new Swift Sport fans at
auto version was regularly requested by new
only $25,990 driveaway. Even with optional
buyers, it was not an option available to us in
leather bolstered seats it’s still a tidy
New Zealand. Now that it’s here, and priced
$27,500 – the same as the manual 5-door
well at $21,990 driveaway (the manual GL is
model, which is regarded as one of the best
now only $19,990), expect to see even more
all-round performance hatchbacks in the
new Swifts on the road in 2013.
world. It is certainly the best value perfor-
A highly specified, special edition Swift
mance hatch in New Zealand with the 3-door
SE has also been introduced for 2013 with
configuration appealing to more dedicated
features like 16 inch alloy wheels, front fog
sports enthusiasts.
lamps, 6 speaker audio system with USB and
16
for the automatic.
Above all, the three new Swifts are
Bluetooth connection, rear spoiler, silver
a complimentary addition to a range of
door handles, sport-type tail lamps, leather
vehicles capable of retaining their top
steering wheel and special silver seat fabric
position in the market – and providing
with silver stitching. Introductory prices are
owners with an even better value-for-money
$22,990 for the manual model and $24,500
motoring experience.
suzuki now ■ autumn 2013
Motorcycle spotlight
The legend returns
When the Hayabusa was introduced in 1998 its revolutionary design
and earth shattering power redefined the market for super sport
motorcycles. Capable of more than 300 km/h in standard trim, the
Hayabusa quickly became a name synonymous with speed and
WATCH VIDEO
performance. In the fifteen years since, there has been a series of
model changes including more power and alterations to the overall
fairing designs. The most important changes for 2013 include the
addition of Brembo front brake callipers and ABS braking systems front
and rear. The Hayabusa is available in store from April 2013, with three
colours to choose from. At $22,490 rideaway, these will be going fast.
tinyurl.com/ckf67sf
Cruise the Boulevard
Experience the thrill and thundering power of Suzuki’s newest V twin
cruiser as we introduce the very latest model to the popular Boulevard
motorcycle range. Fully equipped with panniers and windscreen, the
new C90BT is designed for longer rides, which of course opens up
plenty of opportunity to cruise God's own. Its large 1500 cc water-
WATCH VIDEO
cooled V twin engine will keep pace with any requirement, delivering
all the low down torque you’d expect. The rideaway price of $22,490
includes six months registration, WOF, and a full tank of fuel which
could make the C90BT the best value cruiser available.
tinyurl.com/ctnpv5a
Scoot with attitude
The word scooter is probably not the best way to start a sentence
about the AN650A Burgman as, although they resemble a scooter
by shape, they are far from what you’d expect. Powered by a liquidcooled 650cc parallel twin four-stroke motor connected to a CVT
transmission, the Burgman will impress even hardened motorcyclists
with its capacity for the open road. The AN650 features a choice of
WATCH VIDEO
either automatic transmission or manual transmission with just the
flick of a switch. Large under-seat storage will swallow two helmets
and a fair share of riding apparel. Due to arrive later in the second
quarter of 2013, the all-new 2013 Burgman 650 is poised to reset the
benchmark once again.
tinyurl.com/bqh87mc
suzuki now ■ autumn 2013
17
Splash hits the road
for charity
F
our Suzuki Splash five-door
illness itself and the wide range of
related blood condition in New Zealand”,
hatchbacks are being used to
support LBC provides.
says Suzuki CEO, Tom Peck. “We’re
raise awareness of Leukaemia
& Blood Cancer in New Zealand.
The highly efficient 1.2 litre Splash
considerable attention,” said Chief
models are being driven by haematology
Executive Officer Pru Etcheverry.
nurses from Leukaemia & Blood Cancer
NZ (LBC), who are on the road visiting
About 2,200 New Zealanders are
diagnosed with a blood cancer each
pleased to be able to support such a
worthwhile charity.”
Like many registered charities, the
work LBC does is achieved without government funding. Fundraising is a crucial
part of their success. The Splashes will
patients and families across New
year. That’s about six children and adults
be on hand to support that too, making
Zealand. Last year the nurses covered
every day. Blood cancers are indiscrimi-
an appearance at LBC fundraising events
more than 48,000 kilometres, but
nate in who they affect, striking at any
such as the Firefighters Sky Tower Stair
they’re now able to go even further with
age, and have the third highest mortality
Challenge in May 2013, and the 100 Hole
the extra mobility their ever-practical
rate amongst cancers in New Zealand.
Golf Marrowthon later in the year.
new Splash vehicles will allow.
The sign-written vehicles are also
helping to increase awareness of the
18
“Although they have only just gone
into service, they are already creating
suzuki now ■ autumn 2013
“It’s estimated there are over 10,000
people living with a blood cancer such
as leukaemia, lymphoma, myeloma or a
www.leukaemia.org.nz
0800 15 10 15
Dealership profile
Nicholson Suzuki
Small cars have a big
appeal in Waikato
Next time you drive through Morrinsville and
Graham began working at the company
Matamata, keep an eye out for something
when it began trading in Morrinsville the
new. You might not immediately recognise it,
1930’s. Back then it was owned by the
however, because it’s housed in one of the
Paine family, and Graham was employed
region’s oldest motor vehicle businesses.
as a car groomer. He worked his way up
Nicholson Suzuki joined the Suzuki
franchise in April 2013, after recognising
the strength the brand has in the small car
to sales manager and part owner, and
eventually bought the business in 1980.
The brothers continue their father’s
market and the opportunity it would provide
philosophy of family and community.
for people in the area.
Their mum, Shirley, is still involved as a
“Suzuki vehicles represent good value for
money and fit in neatly with the other cars
director and shareholder.
“Cars have undergone immense
From left: Chris Holmes (sales), Jonathon Holbrook (parts),
Greg Beatson (parts), Andrew Lingard (parts manager),
Damon McKinnon (sales), Dean Nicholson CEO
we sell,” said the company’s dealer principal,
changes since our business first opened,
Dean Nicholson.
but one aspect that remains unaltered is our
ago. The Morrinsville site regularly has as
total commitment to customers,” says Dean.
many as 100 vehicles in stock. In 2005, they
Dean and his brother Ross have been part
of the company for more than 30 years. They
Their commitment is working, obviously,
expanded their service into Matamata and
followed in the footsteps of their much-
as Nicholson’s Autos has been expanding
plans are underway to extend their Suzuki
respected dad, the late Graham Nicholson.
solidly since their father bought it 33 years
interests to Whakatane later this year.
WIN THE
ROAD WARRIOR
If you’ve been following the Vodafone Warriors
in other parts of the country. It’s being used
on the field, you may have already glimpsed
for membership, community, promotional
their newest member on the sidelines: the
and media events. Enter online and it could
small but mighty Road Warrior.
be going home with you. The new owner will
Decked out in the club’s core colours
and sporting the logos of principal and major
sponsors, the stylish Suzuki Swift GL will
become a regular sight around Auckland and
Check out the Road
Warrior and enter here:
tinyurl.com/c6chmmk
be drawn at the final home game of the 2013
season at Mount Smart Stadium.
FEATURING:
WARRIOR GRAPHICS
FUSION TUNER, SPEAKERS AND 10-INCH
SUB-WOOFER
17-INCH BGW RECOIL WHEELS
FRONT LOWER SPOILER, SIDE SKIRTS,
UPPER AND LOWER REAR SPOILERS
PANTERA LEATHER PACKAGE WITH
ENHANCED SEATS AND HEADRESTS
Some services are genuinely
better than others
You’ll be wanting to make sure your Suzuki is in tip top condition before
the cold, wet winter mornings really set in – and the best way to do that is
by taking it to someone who knows Suzuki vehicles best.
Only an authorised Suzuki dealership has the latest Suzuki diagnostic
equipment with highly trained Suzuki service technicians on staff.
Experts who service Suzuki vehicles every day of the week, and are
completely up-to-date with all the latest technological advancements.
Experts who will use genuine Suzuki parts to guarantee your car’s
optimum safety, reliability, economy and performance.
So if your Suzuki needs a service make sure it gets one with a capital ‘S’
Book a genuine Suzuki service at your local Suzuki dealer now.
www.suzuki.co.nz