Suzuki Way of Life!

HQ News & Views
Sagara Plant Reaches Production
Total of 10 Million Engines
Maruti Suzuki Launches
A-star Compact Car in India
In August 2008, SMC’s engine production plant in Sagara
(Makinohara-shi, Shizuoka) Japan reached total production
of 10 million engines. The plant, which started manufacturing engines of cars for both domestic and overseas markets
in November 1994, had produced five million units by
October 2004.
The plant currently produces a monthly average of
110,000 engines per month: various engine types from
660cm3 engines used in minivehicles up to V6 powerplants
for SUVs. In addition to engine
manufacturing, in July 2008, the
Sagara
plant
commenced
production of compact vehicles
for overseas markets.
On 19 November, Maruti Suzuki India, a Suzuki subsidiary in
India, announced the launch in India of Suzuki’s newest and
most compact passenger car, the A-star. The A-star is
Suzuki’s fifth world strategic model, but the first to debut in
India. Built at Maruti’s Manesar plant and powered by
Suzuki’s K10B 1.0-liter engine, the new small-car offers the
compact, fuel-efficient mobility now in demand from Indian
motorists. The model will be launched in Europe this spring,
where it will be known as the Alto. The European model’s
environmental credentials of Euro5 compliance and low CO2
emissions of 103g/km will help to ensure its success in the
‘A’ segment of the European market, with exports to other
markets to follow.
Engine assembly at Sagara plant
SMC Vehicles Capture
Prestigious 2008 Awards
The Automotive Researchers’ and Journalists’ Conference of
Japan (RJC) selected the Wagon
R and Wagon R Stingray
minivehicles for the 2009 RJC Car of the Year award, the third
such win for Suzuki (following the Wagon R in 1993 and the
Swift in 2006). The winners were chosen from among 17
domestic models launched between 1 November 2007 and
31 October 2008 and evaluated by 62 jurors. Since its launch
in 1993, the Wagon R – which created a popular new genre
known as the mini wagon and continues to spearhead the
mini vehicle segment - has been popular among car lovers
of both genders and all ages.
In addition, the Japan Industrial Design Promotion Organization selected two Suzuki automobiles for design awards.
The Wagon R mini vehicle series was honoured by the jury
with the 2008 Good Design Award, saying the Wagon R is
“…the form that small cars will take in the future”.
The 2008 Long-Selling Good Design Award, presented
to the Jimny four-wheel-drive (4WD) mini vehicle, honours
popular products that inspire fresh thinking about manufacturing and lifestyles.
A-star
Suzuki Plaza to Open Soon
A new Suzuki history museum and exhibition hall, Suzuki
Plaza, is under construction in front of Suzuki’s head office in
Hamamatsu City. The exhibition hall is designed to introduce
Suzuki’s past and present to the public and Suzuki-affiliated
people. The third floor exhibit will illuminate the historical
background behind actual Suzuki production models, among
them looms, motorcycles and Suzuki’s first mini vehicle
known as the Suzulight. The second floor
will explain each step
in car development
and production, with
realistic clay models
and a 3D theatre.
Exterior view of new Suzuki Plaza
Jimny
Wagon R
300 TAKATSUKA, MINAMI, HAMAMATSU, JAPAN
Eco-Friendly Urban Style:
Suzuki Way of Life!
Concept
At the heart of the concept for the new Alto/A-star/CELERIO is
Suzuki’s understanding that people, especially in urban areas, want
economical, eco-friendly motoring without sacrificing style,
comfort, practicality or performance. And compact dimensions
(overall length of 3,500mm, width of 1,600mm, height of 1,470mm
and a wheelbase of 2,360mm) play a large part in realizing
outstanding environmental credentials by keeping weight to a
minimum, while still being user-friendly.
CO N T E N T S
2 New Product
6 What’s Goin’ On? Showtime
8 What’s Goin’ On? Chequered Flags
11 Where’s the Action?
12 What’s Goin’ On? In the Spotlight
Design, Comfort and Practicality
16 HQ News & Views
FROM THE EDITOR
This year Suzuki celebrates “100 years of
innovation” since our founder and first
president, Michio Suzuki, started the
company as a loom manufacturer in October
1909. Suzuki has developed products of
superior value by focusing on the customer
for an even better way of life.
Based on our Way of Life! philosophy,
Suzuki is honouring this anniversary by
continuing to create products that excite
people, meet their needs and give them new
lifestyle possibilities for years to come.
The current economic climate may yet
become the worst in a century. The staff of
this magazine would be happy if it helps
weather the storms ahead by strengthening
the unity of our beloved SUZUKI FAMILY.
To contribute to a future issue, please
send your letter and photo(s) with Suzuki
products to:
Suzuki Family Editor
Overseas Planning Division
Suzuki Motor Corporation
300 Takatsuka, Minami, Hamamatsu
432-8611 Japan
(Letters and photos sent to us cannot be
returned, and may be edited for publication.)
Some articles of this magazine can be read
online at http://www.globalsuzuki.com, in the
COMMUNICATION MAGAZINE section.
No.
The Winning New Suzuki
Alto/A-star/CELERIO :
*1
The Stylish
Eco-Friendly Compact
At the 2008 Paris Motor Show, Suzuki unveiled the all-new Alto/A-star/CELERIO —
the smallest of our five world strategic models. One of the most fun-to-drive city
cars available — the Alto/A-star/CELERIO is a great new example of Suzuki’s “Way of
Life!” philosophy. The new Alto/A-star/CELERIO, by combining eye-catching style
and easy urban mobility with great fuel efficiency and lower CO2 emissions, meets
the lifestyle demands of today’s motorists and the pressing global need for
environmental responsibility. The new Alto/A-star/CELERIO embodies Suzuki’s
successful small-car expertise, expressed in a definitive response to the need for
The new Alto/A-star/CELERIO’s sporty, solid look projects urban
energy. The elegant aerodynamic contours combine tautness with
evocative curviness. This sophisticated design, adapted to
European tastes, features the exceptional combination of low 0.30
drag coefficient, fuel efficiency and low CO2 emissions. The cabin
layout favours the front seats, but still amply accommodates four
adults. The useable luggage space behind the rear seats can be
further expanded by folding down the rear seatback and there are
handy storage spaces located all around the cabin.
Performance and
Environmental Compatibility
The new Alto/A-star/CELERIO’s three-cylinder 1.0-liter petrol engine
is a light compact unit with low friction characteristics, a maximum
power output of 50kW and a maximum torque of 90N•m. Fuel
consumption is low at 4.4L/100km and CO2 emissions are just
103g/km. Standard transmission is five-speed manual and a
four-speed automatic transmission (uncommon among one-liter
cars) with gate-type shifter available as an option. The large,
high-rigidity suspension frame, with MacPherson strut type front
suspension, features reinforcement in the strut mounting areas for
superior handling. The rear suspension’s proprietary 3-link rigid axle
design incorporates numerous refinements. Suzuki employed its
global motorsport experience to achieve enjoyable handling on
urban roads with linear response, gentle roll movements, light
steering feel and good absorption of shock and vibration. The new
Alto/A-star/CELERIO’’s minimum turning radius of just 4.5m enables
easy manoeuvreing to park in tight spaces.
Safety
In the unfortunate event of an accident, the new
Alto/A-star/CELERIO’s body reflects Suzuki’s Total Effective Control
Technology (TECT) concept in the form of crushable structures that
absorb impact energy, frame members that disperse impact energy
away from occupants and a strong cabin structure. High-tensile
steel is used for major body parts, achieving high level of occupant
safety without adding excessive weight to the body. Six airbags
(SRS dual front airbags, SRS dual side airbags and SRS dual curtain
airbags) are available, and energy-absorbing trim provides further
head protection. The new Alto/A-star/CELERIO is available with
Electronic Stability Program (ESP®(*2)), which modulates engine
performance and applies the brakes during cornering and under
acceleration to avoid hazards.
(*1) The model name may be different depending on individual markets.
(*2) ESP is a registered trademark of Daimler AG.
Note: This information is based on the specifications of the Alto/A-star/CELERIO
for Europe. Availability of equipment and features may vary according to
market and grade.
enjoyable, eco-friendly motoring.
129
English version
Published by:
SUZUKI MOTOR CORPORATION
300 Takatsuka, Minami, Hamamatsu, Japan
Issued date: March 2009
Printed in Japan on recycled paper
SUZUKI FAMILY
March 2009
2/3
Fashion Meets Technology
New
Products
Elegance on Two Wheels
Stylish World Debut
At a press conference at Pierre Cardin Theatre in Paris on
25 September 2008, SMC introduced three new
motorcycle models to an excited crowd of about 550
people, including some 200 journalists, as well as Suzuki
European distributors and their top dealers. SMC’s 2009
entry to the mid-capacity class of motorcycles, the
exciting new GLADIUS, generated particular excitement
and attention from photographers. The GLADIUS naked
model - developed as a combination of style and
technology, efficiency and fashion - is an unmatched
value on two wheels, with an extra dose of daily fun
included. Masayoshi Itoh, Deputy Executive General
Manager of Suzuki’s Global Marketing Division, explained
the new model’s guiding concepts: “We paid particular
attention to the styling, aiming for a fashionable, sporty
new look that communicates an easy-going personality
and generates an emotional attachment to the bike. Plus
the chassis is slim and compact, so the overall package
is very easy to handle for riders of a wide range of skill
The GLADIUS: a masterpiece of fresh styling blends
traditional displacement with elegant new look,
smooth handling and a friendly, comfortable ride.
levels. We’re positioning the GLADIUS as a stylish ride for
a wide range of people, including those who are looking
for an entry model, and we’re confident that it’s going to
have lots of fans.”
It All Comes Down To Fun
A unique work of motorcycle artistry, the 2009 GLADIUS is
always ready to satisfy the senses, the soul and the
desire to experience a fabulous ride. Every visual detail is
designed to attract, whether cruising down the boulevard
or parked in front of your favorite café. From the richly
curved bodywork surfaces, compact truss frame and
unique multi-reflector headlight to the selection of vivid
colour options, the distinctive good looks of the GLADIUS
delight the eye. GLADIUS is the stylish bike that can fulfill
your personal fashion cravings and express your
individuality in new and exciting ways. But this beauty is
also an outstanding performer: powered by a refined,
fuel-injected version of Suzuki’’s renowned SV650 DOHC
90-degree V-Twin engine, the GLADIUS combines sporty,
rider-friendly characteristics with long-term reliability.
Each cylinder head carries two iridium spark plugs to
enhance combustion efficiency. Advanced digital engine
management and emission controls ensure the highest
level of efficiency with fewer emissions. The 17-inch cast
aluminium alloy wheels contribute to performance, as do
the dual floating front disc brakes, a single rear disc
brake and optional ABS (Antilock Brake System).
Furthermore, GLADIUS is designed to provide maximum
comfort, with easy riding position in every circumstance,
whether cruising the open road, maneuvering through
tight spots or stopping at a traffic light. The well-padded,
bolstered two-tone seat is positioned just 78.5cm above
the ground, with an optional higher seat available for
taller riders. The chassis and bodywork are slimmed down
at the point where the fuel tank meets the rounded
forward edges of the seat, and tubular handlebars and
foot pegs positioned to maximize comfort. Add to that
the tuned front and rear suspension, and you have put on
the street 2009’s most elegant statement of motorcycle
technology, efficiency and resounding fun – the new
Suzuki GLADIUS.
Special “GLADIUS” Website
The 2009 Suzuki GLADIUS is a gorgeous two-wheeled
expression of Suzuki’s “Way of Life!” Learn how to
develop your own new style and individuality at
http://www.gladiusstyle.com/, where you can view the
stylish urban character of GLADIUS and read fashion
suggestions in five languages (English, French, German,
Italian and Spanish).
Standard 17-inch cast aluminium-alloy wheels
(MT3.50 front wheel and MT5.00 rear wheel) each
feature five spokes. Dunlop Qualifier sport radial
tires are standard equipment: 120/70ZR17(58W)
front and 160/60ZR17 (69W) rear. Dual floating
front brake discs (290 mm) work with dual-piston
calipers. The single 240mm rear brake disc is
fitted with a single-piston caliper.
Clear lens turn indicators flank the shapely
multi-reflector headlight. The compact combination
tail and brake light beneath the rear of the seat is
framed by the rear fender.
Masayoshi Itoh, Deputy Executive
General Manager of Suzuki’s Global
Marketing Division, introduces GLADIUS
at a press conference at Pierre Cardin
Theatre in Paris.
You can view the stylish urban character of GLADIUS and read fashion
suggestions in five languages (English, French, German, Italian and
Spanish) at http://www.gladiusstyle.com/
The amply padded seat fully supports the rider’s
hips, while shape and positioning of tubular
handlebars and foot pegs add to riding comfort.
The single rear shock progressively linked to the
rectangular-section steel swingarm enables
smoother suspension reaction.
The GLADIUS chassis and bodywork are slim
where the fuel tank meets the two-toned
seat, which has rounded outside forward
edges and is relatively low (785mm above
the pavement), assuring rider comfort.
The GLADIUS is powered by a refined
fuel-injected DOHC 90-degree V-Twin
engine, based on the proven SV650
powerplant famous for long-term reliability,
broad power and quiet rumble.
The stylish new GLADIUS generated
great excitement and attention
from photographers.
SUZUKI FAMILY
March 2009
4/5
WHAT’S GOIN’ ON?
SHOWTIME
2008 Paris Mondial de
l’Automobile Spotlights
Suzuki History and Future
The 2008 Mondial de L’Automobile in
Paris, which featured the world debuts of
90 models, attracted 1,433,000 visitors
during the 4-19 October public run.
On 2 October, the first of two press
days covered by 13,000 journalists from
92 countries, Suzuki Motor Corporation
held a press conference featuring a
keynote speech by a distinguished SMC
Board Member. In his address, Senior
Managing Executive Officer Toshihiro
Suzuki outlined the nearly 100 years of
expansion since the company’s founding
in October 1909 and cited development
of the first Suzuki product, an innovative
loom invented by Founder Michio Suzuki
to meet new market needs.
He noted that although Suzuki has
expanded from looms into production of
motorcycles, cars and outboard motors:
“we’re still guided by the same kind of
philosophy that was behind the development of that first loom: a philosophy of
creating products that excite people,
meet their needs and give them new
lifestyle possibilities.” Steady expansion
guided by that philosophy has reached
the point that the company currently
markets Suzuki products in 193 countries
and regions around the world for annual
sales of more than 3.5 trillion yen.
Regarding automobiles, Suzuki
reminded the audience that, since
Suzuki built its first production car in 1955,
SMC annual motor vehicle production
volume has reached two million units in
The new Alto on display in Paris
Toshihiro Suzuki outlined SMC’s heritage.
2005. The accumulated production of Suzuki
cars is now nearly 40 million units. He noted
that Suzuki began car exports to Europe in
1968 with a model called the Fronte, and in
March 2008, aggregate car shipments to
European countries topped 4.5 million units.
Suzuki Italia Exhibit
Excites Milano
Motorcycle Show 2008
The most important 2008 Italian event
for two-wheel vehicle fans, the Milano
Motor Show (EICMA), exhibited more
than 1,000 motorcycle and related
brands to 505,000 visitors from Italy and
abroad, as well as 2,700 journalists.
Suzuki Italia displayed 75 bikes in a large
1800m2 exhibit dedicated to the SMC
brand.
On 4 November, Suzuki offered a
world preview of the new Bandit 650, a
strategic bike aimed primarily at the
European market. Other important new
The SX4-FCV fuel-cell car
Speaking of the present and future, Mr.
Suzuki highlighted Suzuki’s environmental
efforts, as exemplified at the Mondial de
l’Automobile by a display of two fuel-cell
vehicles (reference models): the SX4-FCV
fuel-cell car, which combines a high -performance fuel cell with a high-pressure hydrogen tank and a capacitor, and the Crosscage
fuel-cell motorcycle, which combines a light,
compact, air-cooled fuel-cell system with a
high-performance secondary battery.
The highlight of the press conference
was the unveiling of Suzuki’s fifth and smallest world strategic car model: the new Alto,
which will be making its market debut in
Europe in spring 2009. Mr. Suzuki described
the three main goals of the new Alto: a city
car with outstanding environmental performance, stylish design and great convenience
within a compact body. Low fuel consumption and low CO2 emissions are enabled by
excellent aerodynamics and Suzuki’s K10B
engine. Suzuki’s unique mini-vehicle development knowhow was effectively employed
to create spaciousness and convenience.
And the three-dimensional look of the
design combines aerodynamic efficiency
with the attractive results of design research
in Europe. The launch of the new Alto
attracted considerable media interest,
suggesting a bright future for this exciting
model in the European market.
bikes debuting in Italy at the show were
the new V-twin cylinder Gladius, the new
GSX-R 1000 and the Intruder M1500.
Suzuki also displayed the “Gemma”, a
futuristic 250cm3 scooter currently
distributed only in Japan.
To express the “Way of life” concept,
the Italian subsidiary displayed three
prototypes: the Van Van Country, the Van
Van Surf and the Sixteen Footable.
The Van Van line concept was
versatile. The “Country” version suggested
by Suzuki Italia would be perfect for
country trips and relaxing picnics far from
the city traffic, offered lively yellow fairing
resembling a wicker picnic hamper and
sunflowers. The free sporty lifestyle
image of the Van Van Surf suggested by
Suzuki Italia’s marketing staff featured big
flower graphics and matte blue colours
contrasting with the white-orange seat,
orange rims and blue frame.
Suzuki Italia’s concept for the Sixteen
125 restyled the “Footable” version in a
sporty way, to remind buyers of the
exciting world of table-soccer. Combining
the young and fresh look of the Sixteen
Exciting Sixteen Footable prototype
with the sporty soul and spirit of leisure, the
unique scooter featured a seat decorated like
a pitch rectangle, football-shaped storage
compartment and mirrors, and footrests
resembling table-soccer players.
Especially popular with photographers
were the Superbike and Moto GP stands
displaying Capirossi’s and Kagayama’s
machines, and another showing the GSX-R
European Cup machines and the Burgman
650 R that participated in the scooter speed
championship circuits. A shop with the
official Suzuki clothes collection offered
visitors interesting and unique Suzuki goods.
The Suzuki “Way of life” was evident
everywhere, with CI colours, beautiful girls,
videos, music and appearances by the
Suzuki Toshiba Trial Bike Team. Walter Belli
entertained the public on three days with
astonishing acrobatics and a jump from a
high balcony on his seatless BMX.
The final day, Suzuki Italia hosted 200
Japanese Suzuki dealers on a tour to see
how Suzukis are marketed in Italy.
Popular Suzuki exhibit at Milano Motorshow 2008
SUZUKI FAMILY
March 2009
6/7
WHAT’S GOIN’ ON?
The Vermeulen/Capirossi Team looks forward to
applying the lessons of 2008 in the 2009 season of the
MotoGP Championship.
Suzuki 2008 Race Results:
Teams Ramp Up for 2009 Season
Suzuki 2008 Racing Results
SERIES
MotoGP
MotoGP
MX1
MX1
WSB
WSB
WSB
Endurance
AMA SBK
POS
8
10
2
3
5
6
11
1
1
RIDER
Chris Vermeulen
Loris Capirossi
Steve Ramon
Ken De Dycker
Max Neukirchner
Fonsi Nieto
Yukio Kagayama
SERT
Ben Spies
TOTAL PTS
128
118
495
490
311
256
154
109
652
GSV-Rs Finish MotoGP Season in Top Ten
The 2008 RIZLA SUZUKI MotoGP factory team rode Suzuki
GSV-R 800cm3 4-stroke machines through their second
competitive season of the World Road Race Championship
(MotoGP) with fine results.
The sixth-ranked rider of the 2007 series, Suzuki’s
Chris Vermuelen, took two consecutive third places – in
round 10 of the German championship and round 11 in
Indianapolis – to achieve a series ranking of eighth for 2008.
His team-mate Loris Capirossi, a veteran rider in his
first season with Suzuki, overcame absence from the
eighth round British Grand Prix because of injuries
suffered in the preceding round in Catalunya to finish the
2008 season in tenth place, thanks to his impressive third
place in the twelfth round in the Czech Republic.
AMA Superbike Champion Ben Spies stood in for
Capirossi in his absence and was also a wildcard entrant
in the eleventh round American Grand Prix and the
fourteenth round Indianapolis Grand Prix, achieving
fourteenth, eighth and sixth places in those rounds,
respectively.
Suzuki Wins Second Consecutive
MX1 Manufacturer Title
In 2008 Motocross of Nations (MX1) competitions, 2007
champion Steve Ramon of Suzuki was joined by seasoned
professional team-mate Ken De Dycker, who previously won
the 2005 championship in Germany and the 2006 championship in Great Britain.
Ramon, piloting Suzuki’s aluminium-framed electroniccontrol fuel injection RM-Z450WS, put up a terrific fight for
the 2008 top spot, winning the second heat and gaining the
podium in the eleven heats overall, to finish the season
ranked second by a narrow margin.
This year’s team entrant, Ken De Dycker, made an
impressive debut by winning both heats in the opening
event. He went on to win three more heats, taking five out
of 13 overall, to gain the podium and end the 2008 season
ranked third.
Thanks to the outstanding performances of both team
riders, Suzuki won the Manufacturer Title for the second
year running. Ramon and De Dycker will team up again
with the aim of recapturing the championship in 2009.
GSX-R Series Dominates Production Races
The Suzuki GSX-R series achieved great results in 2008’s
major production races in Europe and the United States. In
the World Endurance Championship, the Suzuki France
Endurance team (SERT), became champions for the fourth
consecutive year on the GSX-R1000. In the Superbike World
Championship, new team member Max Neukirchner gained
the podium seven times overall with victory in two heats,
while Fonsi Nieto made his mark by winning heat two of the
opening round. In Great Britain’s traditional TT race on the
Isle of Man, the GSX-R1000 took the top three places in the
Superbike class, and the GSX-R600 claimed victory in the
Supersport class.
Ben Spies won the American Superbike Championship
for the third year running and Matt Mladin took second
position, giving Suzuki first and second rankings in the
series. Suzuki has won the American Superbike
Championship for six consecutive years. These stellar 2008
performances confirm the outstanding speed and
endurance capabilities of the GSX-R series in action and
promise great achievements for the 2009 season ahead.
Muddy road in Great Britain round
was sixth. Both cars scored driver and manufacturer points.
At the WRC conclusion in Great Britain 5-7 December, the
SX4 showed its capabilities by setting some top-five times
in challenging stages of the season’s toughest conditions,
with Andersson finishing day one on the provisional
podium. Commented Gardemeister: “We’ve improved the
SX4 WRC a lot this year in terms of both speed and
reliability.”
Suzuki Suspends FIA WRC Activities: Due to the current
economic situation, we have suspended FIA WRC activities.
We appreciate our team members and supportive rally fans.
SMC’s 2008 WRC experiences will contribute to future
development of Suzuki automobiles.
WRC 2008 Drivers’ final standings
1
2
3
Suzuki wins World Endurance Championship.
12
Suzuki WRC Challenge
Proves SX4’s Potential
Suzuki’s two SX4 WRCs proved reliable throughout the 2008
season, demonstrating the car’s strength and durability in
the tough rally conditions.
At Round 14 in Japan, 31 October to 2 November, the
Suzuki team claimed its best-ever results on home
territory, setting Day 2’s fastest stage time. P-G Andersson
finished in fifth place while team-mate Toni Gardemeister
Chris Vermeulen takes the lead
13
1
2
3
4
5
6
Sebastien Loeb
CITROEN TOTAL WRT
Mikko Hirvonen
BP FORD ABU DHABI WORLD RALLY TEAM
Daniel Sordo
CITROEN TOTAL WRT
Per-Gunnar Andersson
SUZUKI WORLD RALLY TEAM
Toni Gardemeister
SUZUKI WORLD RALLY TEAM
WRC 2008 Manufacturers’ final standings
CITROEN TOTAL WRT
BP FORD ABU DHABI WORLD RALLY TEAM
SUBARU WORLD RALLY TEAM
STOBART VK M-SPORT FORD RALLY TEAM
SUZUKI WORLD RALLY TEAM
MUNCHI'S FORD WORLD RALLY TEAM
122
103
65
12
10
191
173
98
67
34
22
TEKA SUZUKI dominates MX1 season opener.
SUZUKI FAMILY
March 2009
8/9
WHAT’S GOIN’ ON?
WHERE’S
PREMIER MORTRS
Suzuki Gears Up for 2009 FIA JWRC
Strong Finishes for
Suzuki Drivers in JWRC Points
The 2008 FIA Junior World Rally Championships (JWRC) season
featured strong performances by Suzuki's junior drivers.
A Suzuki Swift Super 1600 finished Spain’s Round 6, held 2-5
October, in sixth place, with driver Jaan Molder earning three JWRC
points. His team-mate Michal Kosciuszko ended up just outside
the points, as did Team Germany driver Florian Niegel.
At the final round in Corsica 10-12 October, strong performances by Suzuki drivers put two Suzuki Swift Super 1600s in the
points. Pierre Marché claimed fourth on his JWRC debut, having
earned a 'wild card' entry by winning the Suzuki Rallye Cup in
France. In seventh place, Florian Niegel claimed his third points
finish, while Suzuki Sport Europe drivers Michal Kosciuszko and
Jaan Molder finished in the top eight.
Strong points finish for Suzuki Juniors in Corsica
1
2
3
5
8
11
JWRC 2008 Drivers’ final standings
Sebastien Ogier
Aaron Burkart
Martin Prokop
Michal Kosciuszko (Suzuki)
Jaan Molder (Suzuki)
Florian Niegel (Suzuki)
42
34
32
22
11
8
For the 2009 JWRC season, Suzuki is again fielding the Swift
S1600, with four promising drivers: Aaron Burkart (Car #31),
Michal Kosciuszko (Car #32), Simone Bertolotti (Car #33) and
Yoan Bonato (Car #35).
Suzuki Sport Europe, which has provided professional rally
assistance and support for European customers since 2003, plans
to reclaim the JWRC title in 2009 with the Swift. Says Team Manager
Yasuhiro Ishii, “We will endeavor to attain the highest standard of
support and assistance to these talented drivers in our efforts to
claim the 2009 JWRC title.” The season began 30 January in Ireland.
See more at:
http://www.globalsuzuki.com/motorsport_auto/index.html
Michal Kosciuszko
Aaron Burkart
Nationality: Polish
Nationality: German
Date of birth: 20 April, 1985
Date of birth: 20 September, 1982
Career
Career
-2005 Polish Rally Championship S1600
Winner (SUZUKI Ignis)
-2006 Junior World Rally Championship
18th (SUZUKI Ignis)
-2007 Junior World Rally Championship
12th (RENAULT Clio)
-2008 Junior World Rally Championship
5th (SUZUKI Swift)
-2006 Junior World Rally Championship 12th
(CITROEN C2)
-2007 Junior World Rally Championship 7th
(CITROEN C2)
-2008 Junior World Rally Championship 2nd
(CITROEN C2)
Co-Driver
Name: Maciek Szczepaniak
Nationality: Polish
Simone Bertolotti
Nationality: Italian
Date of birth: 4 May, 1985
Career
-2008 Junior World Rally Championship
12th (RENAULT Clio)
Co-Driver
Name: Luca Celestini
Nationality: Italian
Co-Driver
Name: Michael Kölbach
Nationality: German
Dealers Demonstrate and Offer
New Ways to Enjoy Suzuki’s Way of Life!
THE ACTION ?
Affiliates in South Africa and Israel develop fresh perspectives on Suzuki life-style options.
South Africa
Israel
Pretoria
Tel Aviv
Suzuki Auto SA’s first lifestyle dealership in South Africa’s
capital city of Pretoria, Suzuki Montana, uniquely
demonstrates Suzuki’s Way of Life! philosophy by offering
complete mobility options. The facility, opened in July in
Pretoria’s Montana suburb, offers customers the full
range of locally available Suzuki passenger cars and
SUVs, as well as Suzuki’’ s comprehensive line-up of
motorcycles and ATVs and Suzuki Marine’s exciting range
of outboard motors and marine products. Says dealer
principal, Grant Galloti: “It enables us to offer our
customers a tailored mobility solution that can embrace
cars, bikes and boats – or any combination thereof.”
Suzuki Montana’s professional staff are well versed
in the varied product range, while a dedicated service
workshop also caters to the full spectrum of Suzuki
vehicles, motorcycles, ATVs and marine products.
On-the-spot financing facilities are also available. So the
dealership offers new and existing Suzuki customers an
unusually varied and exciting dealership experience,
boosts brand awareness across a broader range of
products, and provides a one-stop Suzuki sales and
service solution. Customers can view and experience
firsthand Suzuki’s core brand
values of exceptional quality,
superior functionality and
overall excellence.
The Israeli Suzuki Customer Clubs, established to
increase skills and maximize the enjoyment and safety of
Suzuki owners, sponsored several international events in
2008 with the support of Avnir Motor Co., Ltd.
The 300-member Israeli Burgman Club joined its
counterpart group in Italy in July 2008 for a 12-day
excursion by 50 riders on 22 Burgman scooters. The trip
through landscapes of Northern Italy forged strong bonds
between the two clubs, who plan future joint events.
Avnir Motor Co., Ltd. arranged the entire excursion – from
the transport of the motorcycles to escort throughout
the journey – for the customers.
The Israeli GSX-R club, established in 2006 to raise
the standard of safe riding, collaborates with “the Israeli
center for advanced riding” to offer courses integrating
field and classroom trainings to improve braking, turning
and control skills for Suzuki sport vehicle owners. Over
60 Israeli riders have participated. In September, Avnir
Motor Co., Ltd. accompanied and subsidized a course for
25 riders in Hungary.
Avnir established the Israeli DR Club in 2006 to
accompany riders during their first field trips. Over 100
riders have participated in off-road riding instructions,
excursions, regular training days and theoretical
instruction in the importer’s showrooms in Israel. In
November, DR-Z400E motorcycles with 12 Israeli riders
traveled on a 700km motorcycle excursion in Turkey,
from the Mount Olympus in Kemer through Antillanca to
Antalya in the south.
Yoann Bonato
Nationality: French
Date of birth: 13 May, 1983
Career
-2008 France Championship Suzuki Cup winner
Co-Driver
Name: Benjamin Boulloud
Nationality: French
SUZUKI FAMILY
March 2009
10/11
WHAT’S GOIN’ ON?
IN THE SPOTLIGHT
Algerian Distributor’s New
Showrooms Feature Suzuki CI
Algerian distributor ELSECOM Sarl on 6
November inaugurated a new showroom in
Alger city. Based on Suzuki CI policies, the
facility features a communication board with
Suzuki’s central chrome S motif, special
exhibition spaces, accessories corner (“Car
Life Wall”) and more. The opening ceremony
welcomed the Japanese ambassador as
guest of honour with notable political figures
and many journalists in attendance.
Another new showroom in Constantine,
Algeria’s third largest city, opened on 8
November. By following the Suzuki CI manual,
both of the new showrooms raise the quality
of Suzuki marketing and will help to build the
brand image in Algeria.
celebrated its 25th anniversary in the Cıragan
Palace on 22 July, 2008. Suzuki Turkey
Chairman N. Ural Hakverdi and his wife
welcomed many VIP guests, among them
former Prime Minister Mesut Yılmaz and his
wife, Japanese Ambassador Nobuaki Tanaka,
and President of Suzuki International Europe
Minoru Amano, as well as members of the
current government and prominent business
leaders.
The evening’s 500 guests enjoyed dinner,
performances by well-known Turkish entertainers and opportunities to view Suzuki
motorcycles and automobiles, as well as a
short movie projected on large screens about
the history of Suzuki Motor Corporation and
the 25 years of Suzuki Otomobil Pazarlama ve
Ticaret A.Ş.
The event was covered by about 100
media members, since Suzuki was among the
first vehicles officially imported to Turkey and
has been offered for 25 years by the same
distributor.
outstanding facilities with beautifully built
showrooms and comprehensive sales,
service and spare parts functions.
The new distributor also participated in the
Sao Paulo Auto Show later in October,
exhibiting the Concept Kizashi and Grand
Vitara, which both attracted much attention
from visitors.
The Suzuki Brand, in partnership with this
new distributor, is destined to achieve high
status in the territory, leading to expansion of
sales.
New Suzuki Distributor
Begins Sales in Brazil
On 7 October, new Suzuki Distributor SVB
Automotores Do Brasil Ltda. kicked off their
Exterior and interior views of the new Alger showroom
Suzuki sales in Brazil through eight dealers
located mainly in Sao Paulo and other key
Distributor of Suzuki in Turkey cities.
Hosts 25th Anniversary Gala
From the start of operation, all of the
One of Turkey’s first automobile distributors, dealerships were ready to offer the full range
Suzuki Otomobil Pazarlama ve Ticaret A.Ş., of service at a high quality level, featuring
Trip to Japan
Rewards Swiss Dealers
Outstanding dealers and staff members of
Frankonia AG, a Suzuki dealership in Switzerland, enjoyed a trip last October to SMC headquarters in Japan. The fifty winners of a dealer
incentive program earned points by selling
motorcycles, scooters and ATVs during the
incentive year of July 2007 to July 2008.
Suzuki staff in South Africa earned top prizes at
Johannesburg Motor Show.
AFF Suzuki Cup 2008
Generates Regional Excitement
A showroom of new Suzuki Distributor
SVB Automotores Do Brasil Ltda
Suzuki Auto South Africa
Shines at Motor Show
Chairman N. Ural Hakverdi and his wife Juliane, with
Suzuki International Europe President Minoru Amano
(right), cut a traditional anniversary cake.
Once again, Suzuki automobiles, motorbikes,
all-terrain vehicles and marine products have
proved adaptable, innovative and exciting. The
Suzuki Way of Life, a good way to live!
At the bi-annual Johannesburg International
Motor Show held 31 October to 9 November,
Suzuki Auto South Africa and Suzuki South
Africa (motorcycle and lifestyle products)
walked away with the top prizes for
showcasing their latest products.
The spectacular Suzuki ‘Way of Life’ stand
- displaying a wide range of automobiles,
motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles and marine
products – attracted thousands of visitors
and won the motor show’s top accolade of
Best Outdoor Stand.
In addition, Suzuki was cited for best display
and performance on the outdoor 4x4 track,
thanks to the style and outstanding test drive
performances of the Jimny and Grand Vitara.
The display successfully highlighted the outer
beauty and inner functionality of Suzuki 4x4
vehicles while demonstrating that they’re fun
to drive.
Suzuki Motor Corporation, in a great expression of Suzuki’s “Sporty” DNA, served as the
title sponsor of AFF (ASEAN Football Federation) Suzuki Cup 2008. The AFF Suzuki Cup
2008 – from preliminaries 17–25 October
through finals 5–28 December – was contested
by AFF’s 11 members: Brunei, Cambodia,
Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the
Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam and
Timor-Leste. The Vietnamese team won the
final match with Thailand, in a dramatic finish
that narrowly avoided going into overtime.
Sponsoring AFF Suzuki Cup 2008 enhanced
Suzuki’s brand image with sports fans in the
ASEAN region and beyond as a passionate
creator of remarkable vehicles that enthusiastically supports the world’s most popular sport.
Presentation of Suzuki Cup 2008 MVP Award
Swiss travelers in front of SMC headquarters
On arrival in Japan, the group enjoyed a
typical Japanese dinner at Grand Hotel
Hamamatsu. The second day they visited
SMC headquarters and the new Suzuki Plaza
museum. During a technical visit to the
Toyokawa Plant, Suzuki engineers answered
questions and explained Suzuki’s global
motorcycle market. That evening the travelers attended the Suzuki Welcome Dinner with
traditional Japanese sake barrel opening
ceremony.
After sightseeing in Nagoya, the group flew
back to Dubai for some days in the Arabian
sun. The team-building trip will surely help
the grateful group to do their best in the year
ahead.
Danish Agricultural Fairs
Feature Suzuki ATV Exhibits
C. REINHARDT AS, Suzuki’s motorcycle distributor in Denmark, mounted exhibits in 2008 at
two of the country’s leading agricultural trade
fairs. About 16,000 people attended the trade
fair “LIB” (Farm Machine Importers Association), held 13-15 November in Fredericia, and
some 60,000 visited the Agromek trade fair in
Herning on 25 - 29 November. At both fairs, five
of the distributor’s employees were joined by
staff from about ten dealers, working in shifts
to introduce Danish farmers to the utility and
versatility of Suzuki’s fleet of ATVs (All-Terrain
Vehicles) and various implements.
Smaller, lighter-weight ATVs are gaining
popularity among Danish farmers compared to
traditional tractors, which are too heavy for use
in the current warmer, wetter climate conditions. The designated Suzuki dealers worked
hard at both fairs to highlight the utility of
Suzuki ATVs and advise farmers about their
potential uses.
Suzuki’s fleet of ATVs on display at the trade fair
in Denmark
SUZUKI FAMILY
March 2009
12/13
WHAT’S GOIN’ ON?
IN THE SPOTLIGHT
Suzuki Warsaw Masters Brings
Tennis Stars to Poland
Famous Stage Play Helps
Promote Suzuki in Poland
Suzuki Motor Poland recently boosted
corporate strategy by sponsoring a women’s
tennis exhibition tournament in Warsaw. The
company invited six world-class players to
the Suzuki Warsaw Masters Tournament, held
30 April to 4 May in Warsaw’s renowned
4000-seat KS Warszawianka sport complex:
Lindsay Davenport (USA), Elena Dementieva
(RUS), Marta Domachowska (POL), Maria
Kirilenko (RUS), Swietlana Kuznetsova (RUS)
and Agnieszka Radwanska (POL).
Warsaw-based Suzuki Motors Poland and
other Suzuki dealers generated huge Polish
media interest in 2008 by co-producing
performances of the stage play “The Woman
In Black”.
Called by a theatre critic “(one of) the
most brilliantly effective spine-chillers you
will ever encounter”, the play is a classic
English ghost story adapted by Polish director
Krzysztof Lang, combining the power and
intensity of live theatre with the cinematic
quality of film noir. Well-known television and
movie actors Jaroslaw Boberek and Tomasz
Dedek played the lead roles.
The successful Warsaw premiere at the
prestigious Fabryka Trzciny theater in December 2007 inspired Suzuki dealers to sponsor
performances in other Polish cities, where the
play often became an important social and
cultural event. Local media, politicians, artists
and other VIP guests of Suzuki dealers
attended the popular
performances, which
proved to be an
excellent and original
form of promotion for
Suzuki in the Polish
market.
New DF8 and DF9.9 Launched at
Düsseldorf Boat Show
At the Düsseldorf boat show in Germany on
17 January, Suzuki Marine launched two
new-generation portable 4-stroke outboards:
the all-new DF9.9 and DF8.
The completely redesigned DF9.9 features
an all-new 208cm3 OHC 4-stroke engine that
weighs 4.5kg less than the original DF9.9. The
same engine is utilized in the DF8, a new
addition to Suzuki’s lightweight, compact and
fuel-efficient 4-stroke line-up.
The new outboards offer excellent power
-to-weight ratio, exceptional fuel-efficiency
and an innovative operating design that incorporates gearshift, throttle operation and
throttle friction adjustment all on the stylish
Suzuki function tiller handle.
Shigeyuki Masuda, Director of Motorcycle
Export and Marine for Suzuki International
Europe, introduced the new models,
commenting: “I am sure these outboards will
be a huge success and help us achieve our
goal of becoming the number one 4-stroke
brand.”
Boat Show presented 9-18 January at ExCeL.
The Suzuki Indoor Harbour enabled show
visitors to see and inspect boats powered by
Suzuki 4-stroke outboards in their natural
element - on water.
At over 1,000 square meters, the Suzuki
Indoor Harbour was the largest stand Suzuki
has ever taken at a UK boat show. This huge
space was used to incorporate a large pool
for displaying boats and engines afloat.
With its fantastic 10 meter high backdrop,
the huge pool, containing around 15,000
liters of water, featured 14 Sports Boats, RIBs
and Fishing Boats. A further 10 boats were
displayed on the stand, making for a total of
24 boats from 11 different boat brands. With
Suzuki’s latest range of DF2.5 – DF300
outboards on display, the Suzuki Indoor
Harbour had a lot to offer visitors to this
year’s show.
Suzuki Indoor Harbour at the Show
Dutch Distributor Demonstrates
New DF90/80/70 in Malta
World premiere of the all-new DF9.9 and DF8
Suzuki Adds Splash to
London Boat Show
Grand Vitara on display at play venue
Suzuki GB PLC unveiled an Indoor Harbour
Feature at the 2009 London International
Suzuki distributor B.V. NIMAG of Holland
invited their 20 key dealers to the beautiful
island of Malta for demonstrations of the new
DF90/80/70 on 13-17 October.
In cooperation with ZARB Stores Limited,
Malta’s Suzuki Distributor, NIMAG provided
local boats for participants to fully experience
the cutting-edge technology of Suzuki's new
generation outboards.
The dealers were greatly impressed by the
Everyone was impressed by the smooth
performance and quiet of the new engines.
“Suzuki has just raised the bar in the popular
mid-sized output range with the new models”,
remarked Suzuki Canada’s GM for public
relations Nathan Naslund. “Our market share
in Canada continues to increase and with
these new additions, we can expect the same
in 2009.”
Latin American Distributors
Try Out the New DF90
New Models Impress 2008
Canadian Marine Meeting
US tennis player Lindsay Davenport at Suzuki Warsaw
Masters Tournament
The highly ranked professionals competed
for prize money of $105,000, which was won
by the Russian players. Polish media praised
the popular event, saying “…the tradition of
women’s tournament was endangered and
needed new formula to survive. Fortunately,
the idea was saved by Suzuki!”
Suzuki Motor Poland President Harumichi
Uto commented: “Our aim is to create strong
association of Suzuki with interesting events,
active life style, sport and culture – emotional
and intellectual values. We believe the Polish
market deserves a special approach and
creative projects as it is one of the most
promising markets in Europe.”
looks, performance and outstanding fuel
efficiency of the new DF90/80/70. The low
noise, compact size, smooth shifting and
powerful acceleration greatly exceeded their
expectations. The dealers indicated as well
that the easy operation of the new tilt-limit
system and single-turn starting mechanism
gives these engines a strong competitive
edge.
Over 150 Suzuki marine dealers, independent
boat builders and media from across Canada
participated in Suzuki’s new model introduction this past September at Clevelands House
in the beautiful Muskoka “cottage country”
region of Ontario.
Over 20 boats powered by Suzuki engines
lined the docks at the site, offering firsthand
experience of Suzuki’s new DF70, DF80, DF90
and DF100, as well as the rest of the Suzuki
marine line-up.
The second Central and South American
Suzuki Marine Distributors’ Conference 26-28
October in Panama City – held in cooperation
with Suplidores - featured introduction and
trials of the New DF90.
The 31 representatives of distributors
from 12 countries (Argentina, Aruba, Ecuador,
El Salvador, Guatemala, Cost Rica, Colombia,
Chile, Nicaragua, Panama, Venezuela and
Mexico) were joined by seven Suzuki representatives from Japan. New distributors
Activa Trading (Aruba) and Trader (El Salvador) attended for the first time.
During the conference, Motos Suzuki
(Costa Rica) and Dos Ruedas Service
(Venezuela) were commended for excellent
2008 business performance, achieved
through programs to improve after-sales
service and promote popularity of the large
4-stroke models.
The new DF90 trials, under clear blue skies
in Playita Marina near the Panama Canal,
gave participants the chance to experience
the second-generation 4-stroke motor. This
model, featuring “Suzuki Lean Burn” for good
fuel economy as well as good acceleration,
will go on sale this summer.
New DF90 trials at Playita Marina
SUZUKI FAMILY
March 2009
14/15