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HQ News & Views
Suzuki Kosai Plant Passes
15 Million Production Milestone
On 14 March, Suzuki Motor Corporation’s Kosai Plant
announced production of 15 million units of automobile
production since its Plant No.1 began making mini passenger
cars in 1970. Suzuki President and COO Hiroshi Tsuda
attended a ceremony marking the milestone at Kosai in
Shizuoka Prefecture. The 15 millionth car off the production
line was a Wagon R.
The 461,000m2 facility has passed many milestones. Plant
No.2 began producing compact cars in August 1983 under a
tie-up with General Motors. Since then, the Kosai Plant has
been given successive production enhancements, including a
new assembly line at Plant No.1 in March 2002. The facility
achieved 10 million units of production in August 2000.
A Fronte mini passenger car was the first vehicle to roll
off the production line in 1970, since then the plant has
manufactured the Alto, Wagon R, Kei, MR Wagon, Cervo and
Palette mini vehicles and the Cultus (Baleno), Aerio (Liana),
Swift and SX4 compact cars. Kosai operates at full capacity
thanks to strong overseas demand for Suzuki compact cars
and to domestic demand for mini vehicles. Mini vehicles are
also supplied to Mazda and Nissan on an OEM basis in Japan.
The Swift (including a sedan version produced in India
alongside the main hatchback version) is currently on sale in
115 countries and regions around the world.
Swift production figures for individual countries at the end
of May were as follows:
Country
Aggregate
production (units)
Start of
production
Remarks
Japan
361,676
Sep. 2004
For Japan and export
Hungary
306,852
Feb. 2005
For Europe
India
241,348
May 2005
Including sedan
China, others
92,893
May 2005
Total
1,002,769
Suzuki Swift
Suzuki Completes
New Marine Technical Centre
SMC President & COO Hiroshi Tsuda (centre) helps cut ribbon at Kosai
milestone ceremony.
Aggregate Worldwide Swift Production
Passes One Million Mark
Aggregate worldwide production of the Suzuki Swift exceeded
one million units at the end of May 2008, reaching this
milestone more quickly than any other Suzuki compact car.
Suzuki began producing the Swift in Japan in September
2004 and in Hungary, India, and China soon thereafter. Swift
production bases now also include Indonesia and Malaysia.
On 23 July, SMC completed construction of Marine Technical
Centre at Arai-cho in Shizuoka Prefecture. The Centre will
serve as the base of Suzuki’s marine design department,
which conducts outboard
planning, design, development
and
service
operation. The Centre,
also housing part of the
outboard motor testing
facility, will promote
efficiency of operation.
Suzuki Marine Technical Centre
Facility: Suzuki Marine Technical Centre
Location: Arai-cho, Shizuoka Prefecture
Operations: Planning, Design, Development and Service of Marine Products
Management: Haruo Terada, General Manager, Marine Design Department
Site: 12,855 m2
Building: 3,464 m2
300 TAKATSUKA, MINAMI, HAMAMATSU, JAPAN
Suzuki DNA Makes History
Evolution to Your “Way of Life!”
CONTENTS
2 Suzuki Celebrates 25th Anniversary of
the 4-Wheel ATV
4 Grand Vitara – Two Decades of SUV
Innovation
6 New Products –DF70/80/90, New 4-stroke
Outboard Engine
8 What’s Goin’ On? Chequered Flags
11 What’s Goin’ on? Showtime
13 What’s Goin’ on? In the Spotlight
16 HQ News & Views
Suzuki - First on
4-Wheels
Suzuki Celebrates 25th Anniversary
of Inventing the 4-Wheel ATV
FROM THE EDITOR
Suzuki’s founder, Michio Suzuki, built the
company’s first loom in October 1909. Suzuki
learned that weavers wanted looms that
could produce cloth with vertical and
horizontal stripes; so he developed a unique
loom capable of weaving patterned cloth from
dyed yarn. Our founder’s motivation was
always to enrich people’s lives through
product improvement.
That spirit of innovation and creation which will celebrate its centenary next year
- remains unchanged to the present day,
consciously fostered as “Suzuki DNA”.
For members of the Suzuki Family,
knowing the Suzuki history of delighting and
exciting people through innovation deepens
our understanding of the brand slogan
introduced in Suzuki Family No.126 last year
to express that spirit. So let’s cultivate “Way
of Life!” together.
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.
128
English version
The Wonder Years: How Suzuki Innovation
Transformed the ATV Industry
Suzuki has remained a technology leader, developing the product range to suit every need from utilitarian farm service to racetrack excitement.
1985 QuadRacer 250
1986 QuadRacer 500
1991 KINGQUAD (First Model)
The world’s first 4-wheel ATV equipped
with a 2-stroke engine, the QuadRacer 250,
was based on the Suzuki RM250
motocross bike. Unprecedented sporty
features – long-travel suspension, low
weight, snappy power, precise steering,
manual clutches, kick starter, hydraulic
disc brakes, aluminium wheels - upped
the sports and recreation potential.
With the largest displacement of any
ATV out there, the 1986 QuadRacer 500
was at the cutting edge of Suzuki’s
leading technology. A milestone in ATV
development, this model is still
favored by some racers.
The 1991 KINGQUAD, one of Suzuki’s
most notable ATVs, later became the
basis for Suzuki’s current 4x4 model
dominance. Engineers added a number
of features to the LT-4WD to produce
the King: engine displacement enlarged
from 246cc to 280cc, a locking front
differential, larger tires and a standard
oil cooler.
2002 QuadSport Z400
2005 KINGQUAD 700 ( Later
version: KINGQUAD 750AXi)
By far the sportiest ATV then on the
market, the QuadSport Z400 featured
torque-loaded performance that
expanded Suzuki’ s performance
heritage with a state-of-the-art
liquid-cooled aluminium alloy DOHC
4-valve engine. The QuadSport Z400
kicked the industry’s high-performance
ATV racing segment into high gear and
increased rider participation.
The 4-Wheel Revolution:
High Performance for Work and Play
In 1983, Suzuki introduced the world’s first
production 4-wheel ATV, the memorable
Suzuki LT-125. Dirt Wheels magazine
enthused “…try one of the LT-125s down
at your local Suzuki shop. It’s exactly what
you’ ve been looking for.” The pioneering
4-wheeler transformed the rapidly growing
ATV industry and signaled the beginning of
Suzuki’s ATV “wonder years”.
As the popularity of 3-wheelers gave
way to Suzuki’s market-transforming
revolution, SMC expanded the 4-wheeler
family with innovative utilitarian features to
improve everyday life – at work or play for everyone from novices to daily utility
riders. Suzuki 4-wheelers became a
popular choice for farming, ranching,
outdoor recreation and worksite
applications. Today hard-working Suzuki
ATVs are everywhere, even serving workers
in natural disaster relief and rescue. SMC
also applied its deep sportbike expertise to
expansion of the line, creating 4-wheelers
that set championship records in
competitive events and confirmed
Suzuki’s legendary racing DNA.
With the industry’s first electronic
fuel-injection system, this ATV earned
numerous “ATV of the Year” awards.
The industry-leading engine
displacement, high performance and
innovations made the KINGQUAD 700
a very important product in Suzuki’s
ATV history.
2002 EIGER 400 (current KINGQUAD
400AS/4x4)
The tough EIGER 400’s combines classic
profile with underlying strength and sets
new standards of middleweight ATV
excellence and value. Outstanding
performance is expanded by an optional
fully automatic CVT and easy on-demand
selection of 2WD or 4WD.
2006 QuadRacer R450
This radical racer - also featuring Suzuki
fuel injection - embodied an entirely
new concept: an industry-first
“race-ready” design with the
race-proven RM-Z450 engine.
The QuadRacer R450 delivers power
smoothly over a wide band, with
class-leading handling for riders
interested in ATV motocross racing.
ATV Demonstration Day
in Denmark Celebrates Anniversary
An ATV demonstration day held on 29 May by the Danish distributor C. Reinhardt A/S,
celebrating the 25th anniversary of Suzuki’s first ATV, was a great success with the
195 participants. Dealers, customers and media representatives were able to test ride
Suzuki ATVs on four different obstacle courses, in a beautiful rural landscape perfect
for quad driving.
Published by:
SUZUKI MOTOR CORPORATION
300 Takatsuka, Minami, Hamamatsu, Japan
Issued date: September 2008
Printed in Japan on recycled paper
SUZUKI FAMILY
September 2008
2/3
The Trendsetting Grand Vitara -
Two Decades of
SUV Innovation
From the 1988 Vitara/Sidekick to today’s trendsetting Grand Vitara, SMC has a history
of leading the SUV market in fresh new directions. For over 20 years, the Vitara’s
compact body and authentic off-road performance have built a loyal following among
drivers who want an SUV that is at home in versatile settings. As a result,
accumulated sales of Vitara models are expected to reach around 2,500,000 units
worldwide this year.
The Vitara story began in the 1980s when global automotive demand diversified
and drivers began craving the excitement of going off-road. As the market changed,
Suzuki identified a growing demand for conveniently sized 4-wheel drive SUVs in a
market formerly dominated by big, heavy cross-country 4WD vehicles.
Having developed Japan’s first 4X4 in the minivehicle category in 1968, introduced
the LJ80 in 1977 and upgraded its lightweight utility 4x4s like the Samurai to appeal
to the changing preferences of international customers, SMC understood this
untapped market potential. Enter the Vitara/Sidekick, Suzuki’s fresh approach to the
SUV: a 4WD car delivering comprehensive off-road performance in a compact size that
was totally at home in urban settings.
First-Generation Vitara
Opens New Compact SUV Genre
A 3-door model with a lightweight 1.6-litre engine, the
all-new Vitara/Sidekick of 1988 was the first of its kind: a
car combining urban refinement with serious off-road
performance. The convenient size made handling easy for
city drivers of both genders and all ages, attracting new
users in a market formerly dominated by big, heavy
cross-country 4WD vehicles.
Although a true 4x4 with separate ladder frame platform,
5-speed gearbox, part-time 4-wheel drive system and
integrated 2-speed transfer box, the Vitara offered higher
levels of functional comfort, with coil springs front and rear,
a comfortable interior and standard power steering.
Uniquely styled with an edgy basic form and rounded
details, the urbane Vitara quickly became popular in Europe
and other markets. A whole new trend in 4x4 motoring was
just beginning…
“First of its kind” Grand Vitara model
Second-Generation Grand Vitara
Expands Lifestyle Horizons
With the first full model change in 1998, Suzuki once again
moved to the head of the lifestyle motoring sector.
The second generation was tailored to satisfy changing
global demands, delivering real 4WD performance on the
proven sturdy ladder-frame chassis and a newly developed
rear suspension. The new Grand Vitara expanded the
lifestyle horizons of customers with elegant body styling
and powerful 2.5-litre V6 and 2.0-litre 4-cylinder engines,
delivering a genuine 4x4 experience to every driver, on- or
off-road. The second-generation Grand Vitara, like its
predecessor, quickly became a truly global car sold in more
than 180 countries and regions.
“Truly global” second-generation Grand Vitara
New Grand Vitara Begins
“Where the Road Ends”
The third-generation New Grand Vitara is a pure SUV born
and bred to free the spirit and open paths where none
existed before. The superbly engineered 4WD excels on
every level compared with the previous model: all-road
mastery, efficient performance, urban functionality and the
ease of use drivers expect of a Suzuki.
Design and equipment qualities reset market standards,
while technological advances raise convenience and
versatility to new levels. The built-in ladder frame
construction of the upsized chassis integrates tough ladder
frame with highly rigid monocoque body. The 4-wheel-drive
system is a major step forward, with a new full-time
4-wheel-drive system replacing the previous part-time
system. The new system includes a limited-slip centre
differential, bringing the car’s off-road terrain performance
to new heights. The suspension is upgraded by a newly
developed 4-wheel-independent design and power is
fine-tuned with a 2.7-litre V6 engine featuring a 2-litre
inline-four unit, 1.6-litre VVT unit and a diesel-turbo engine.
Most recently, in June, SMC announced new engines for the
Grand Vitara, adding 3.2L V6 VVT and 2.4L VVT to the line-up.
Suzuki’s heritage of sporty 4X4 vehicles with off-road
utility and reliability provides the DNA, and our advanced
automotive engineering keeps the Vitara bloodline true to
type: built to be driven with pleasure, on- and off-road. The
Vitara evolution is never over, as we refine the unique
original concept to satisfy changing market demands and
growing environmental/social concerns. Ever a confident
expression of SMC’s philosophy - pleasure in driving, fun in
use and pride of ownership - the Grand Vitara is born and
bred to enhance your “Way of Life!”
Because of its utility and reliability, Grand Vitara is
also used for hard work like disaster relief and
wild life rescue in Africa.
SUZUKI FAMILY
September 2008
4/5
New
Products
Pioneering Advancements in Efficiency,
Economy and Boating Pleasure
A decade after the four-stroke revolution of DF60 and DF70 outboards,
Suzuki is re-inventing the category with three new models: the DF70,
DF80, and DF90. This new, sharper-looking generation is a showcase of
Suzuki achievement, including such pioneering technical advances as
multi-point sequential electronic fuel injection, the powerful 2.59:1
final drive ratio, a zero-maintenance self-adjusting timing chain and
Suzuki’s proven offset drive shaft. The newly employed Suzuki Lean
Burn Control System significantly increases combustion efficiency, so
the new models deliver good fuel economy.
The New DF70/80/90
The Making of
a Compact Outboard
Suzuki’ s offset driveshaft, pioneered in the
first-generation DF90, has been essential to size
reduction. The use of intermediate reduction gearing to
position the crankshaft in front of the driveshaft moves
the outboard’ s centre of gravity forward for better weight
distribution on the transom, and provides improvements
in power, performance, balance and vibration reduction.
Combining the offset driveshaft with a newly
designed powerhead, Suzuki engineers made the new
DF90 the lightest, most compact outboard in its class of
the four-stroke category.
emissions, the system’s air-fuel ratio exploits the
reaction characteristics of exhaust emissions. The
system’s wide lean-burn range extends up into the top
speed range, providing more efficient operation at
cruising speed.
Comparison of Fuel Consumption
original DF90 vs. new DF90
%
100
80
60
40
20
0
Creating
a Fuel-Efficient Outboard
Suzuki’ s Lean Burn Control System runs on a thinner fuel
mixture through the use of a lean air-fuel ratio. The system
predicts fuel needs according to operating conditions and
achieves added fuel economy through a reduction of
pumping loss. To balance fuel efficiency with clean
Original DF90’s fuel comsumption = 100
new DF90
original DF90
trolling
cruising
max.
Comparison of Running Distance
per 1liter of fuel (cruising at 4500rpm)
- Suzuki Marine Re-invents the Four-Stroke
High Performance Features
An all new, more compact DOHC (dual overhead cam)
powerhead with four valves per cylinder reduces the
overall size of the outboard while providing high
performance power.
The second-generation DF70/80/90s also employ
Suzuki’ s two-stage gear reduction system to provide the
needed torque for maximum propulsion - quick
acceleration and great top-end speed - without
unwanted bulk and weight.
The streamlined gear case on all three outboard
motors utilizes a hydrodynamic design that reduces drag
by up to 36% compared to conventional designs,
contributing to faster acceleration and increased speed.
Suzuki engineered a new highly efficient propeller
with the robust torque to enable faster acceleration and
higher top speed.
Board (CARB) Rating of “3-star Ultra-Low Emissions” for
exhaust gases.
The redesigned transmission and shifting system engineered with greater precision to reduce play and
noise – offers smoother shifting, while the Suzuki easy
start system delivers smoother and more reliable
ignition, improved combustion efficiency and greater fuel
economy.
Additional features reduce maintenance: dual
freshwater flush ports enable convenient flushing of the
cooling system, a new trim and tilt system protects
against tilt angle damage, a hydraulic tensioner
automatically checks tension on the timing chains of the
DF70/80/90s, and Suzuki’ s specially formulated
anti-corrosion finish increases engine durability.
*Always wear a personal flotation device when boating.
Original DF90's running distance = 100
User-Friendly Features
new DF90
original DF90
0
BRAND A 66.2kW(90PS)
BRAND B 66.2kW(90PS)
20 40 60
80 100 120 140 160 %
Date used in the graph was obtained through in-house testing under uniformed conditions.
Results will vary depending upon operating conditions(boat design,size,weight(load),weather,etc.)
The DF70, DF80 and DF90 all conform to Euro 1 Emissions Standards and merit the California Air Resources
SUZUKI FAMILY
September 2008
6/7
WHAT’S GOIN’ ON?
Suzuki Challenges the World Rally
Championship All-New Suzuki SX4
Excelling in 2008 Debut Year
Suzuki World Rally Team’ s exciting debut year of Living
the Dream - SMC’ s first full season of the World Rally
Championship - began at the 76th Rallye Monte Carlo on
24-27 January. After nearly 400 competitive kilometres
over ice, snow and flat-out asphalt mountain roads, P-G
Andersson and his SX4 finished among the top eight. Toni
Gardemeister completed all but five special stages. Both
drivers proved that the new Suzuki SX4 WRC has the pace
to run towards the front. Commented team principal
Nobuhiro ‘Monster’ Tajima, “This rally has been an
incredibly proud moment for Suzuki as we embark on our
world rally dream.”
In Round 2, the Swedish Rally held 8-10 February, Toni
Gardemeister claimed seventh position - scoring two
driver points and three manufacturer points. Two stages
were cancelled for lack of snow, as loose gravel ripped
out tyre studs and reduced grip, but the Suzuki Team
learned a lot under difficult circumstances. Once again,
the Suzuki SX4 WRC showed itself capable of setting
top-six times over the course of the three-day event.
At the all-gravel Rally Mexico Round 3 of the WRC 28
February - 2 March, both Suzuki SX4 WRCs were forced to
retire after high altitude and tough roads took a toll on the
engines. P-G Andersson, whose car performed well on the
opening loop of stages, commented “The fact that we
were sixth when we stopped just goes to show the
potential of the whole SX4 WRC package.”
The Suzuki SX4 WRCs arrived at Round 4, Rally
Argentina on 27-30 March with revised head gasket and
bodywork modifications. As a result, P-G Andersson’ s SX4
scored a manufacturers’ point for Suzuki in the challenging
SMC Senior Managing Executive Officer Honda and WRC Team principal
Tajima applaud at start of first Suzuki WRC race.
Debut Drivers in JWRC Rallies
Demonstrate Suzuki Swift Performance
Suzuki SX4s scored manufacturer’s points in grueling Greek Rally.
event under to wet seasonal conditions. Andersson set an
eighth-fastest time in his Suzuki SX4 WRC, beating more
experienced competitors in a round where only eight of
the original 14 starters finished.
At WRC Round 5 - the Jordan Rally on 24-27 April P-G Andersson and co-driver posted fourth fastest time on
the Wadi Shueib test. Although Andersson later slid off the
road during the 41.45km Jordan River stage and did not
finish, his Suzuki SX4 ran through scorching temperatures
without technical faults. Rally Team manager Paul Wilding
observed “P-G was under a second per kilometre off the
pace of the fastest car yesterday, which demonstrates
what the Suzuki SX4 WRC is capable of.”
Before WRC Round 6, Rally d’ Italia Sardegna on 16-18
May, the Suzuki Team enhanced underbody protection and
improved cooling on the SX4 WRC. P-G Andersson finished
ninth, having set sixth-fastest time on the final stage. In
an event plagued by wet weather that exposed sharp
rocks, Andersson described his SX4 WRC as “perfect”
throughout the entire rally, requiring nothing more than
routine servicing.
D e s p i t e t h r e e d ay s o f h i g h d r a m a a n d fi e r c e
competition in the grueling Acropolis Rally Championship
event 30 May - June 1, a Suzuki SX4 WRC driven by Toni
Gardemeister landed at 9th place in Round 7, the toughest
event of the 2008 WRC season. Suzuki team-mate P-G
Andersson and his Suzuki SX4 WRC finished in 11th place,
and set a sensational pace overall, at times climbing as
high as sixth.
Summing up, Suzuki World Rally Team manager Paul
Wilding said: “The team has achieved its objectives here … .
It’ s been amazingly rough in places, but Suzuki and the
SX4 WRC encountered fewer problems than many rivals.
We picked up manufacturers’ points with both cars and
set some great times along the way.”
See more at:
http://www.suzukisport.com/wrc/e/
Suzuki Swift Super 1600 drivers Jaan Molder (Estonia) and
Michal Kosciuszko (Poland) took second and third place,
respectively, in Rally Mexico, Round 1 of the 2008 Junior
World Rally Championship (JWRC). Throughout the
demanding all-gravel event - which ran 28 February
through 2 March - the Suzuki drivers consistently held
competitive positions, although this was the first Rally
Mexico for both.
Thanks to sensible yet aggressive driving strategy,
both Suzuki Swifts performed superbly over the rugged,
arid terrain at high altitudes. After spirited competition
with each other for the lead, Jaan finished a minute and a
half ahead of his Suzuki Sport Europe team-mate, who in
turn was nearly three minutes ahead of the nearest
competitor driving another make.
Next, in Round 2 of JWRC 2008 – the Jordan Rally held
24-27 April - Suzuki Rallye Junior Team Germany driver
Florian Niegel took fourth place in his first JWRC event
ever, driving a Suzuki Swift Super 1600. Throughout his
trouble-free rally, Neigel was careful in the stages, running
in extremely hot conditions close to the Dead Sea. He
pushed harder on the final stage of the rally - the tortuous
41.45km Jordan River test - moving up one more place.
Niegel commented, “The
sun and the heat have
been incredible. The car
has worked so hard and
been really reliable. … to
be able to push a bit
harder and get into fourth
on the final stage was
amazing.”
After a setback in
Round 2 in Jordan, Suzuki
Suzuki Swift Super 1600 ran well in
Sport Europe Swift Super
Jordan’s extremely hot Round 2 of JWRC.
Suzuki Sport Europe team celebrates victory in Sardinia, Round 3 of JWRC.
1600 driver Michal Kosciuszko achieved his debut victory
in Round 3, the Rally d'Italia Sardegna. In contention for
the lead from the start of the 15-18 May rally, the Pole
fought closely with Citroen driver Martin Prokop, but
Kosciuszko managed to triumph on the final day, after
Prokop encountered technical problems.
Kosciuszko’ s Suzuki Swift Super 1600 remained
entirely reliable, despite rough conditions and unpredictable
weather that made the stages particularly tricky. The win
boosted Kosciuszko to second in the point standings, just
eight points behind JWRC leader Sebastien Ogier.
First Vehicles Hit the Tracks for
Suzuki Swift Cup
A special event in Madrid, Spain on 25 April delivered
rally-equipped Suzuki Swift Sport cars to participants
entered in the Suzuki Swift Cup, to be run during the
Spanish Rally Championship. The cars feature a complete
competition kit focused on safety and the compulsory
modifications established by Federation Internationale de
l’ Automobile (FIA) regulations. After a breakfast hosted by
Suzuki representatives Juan López Frade and Pilar Enjuto
Muñoz, the pilots collected their eagerly awaited Swifts
and drove home.
The debut round 17 May at the Spanish Rally was a
great success for Cup competitors. Overcoming rainy
conditions, 15 of the 16 Suzuki Swift Cup entries crossed
the finish line in Santander.
The second Cup rally on 21 June in Orense was even
tougher, but the reliable Swift Sport cars came through
where high temperatures forced many other brands to
retire. Although racers ran on rough roads behind the
leaders, only two of the Swift Cup drivers faced minor
technical problems.
Debut Suzuki Swift Cup races in Spain proved Swift reliability and high performance.
SUZUKI FAMILY
September 2008
8/9
WHAT’S GOIN’ ON?
WHAT’S GOIN’ ON?
Team Alstare Suzuki’s Neukirchner
Takes His First WSB Win in Round 5
Team Alstare Suzuki rider Max
Neukirchner won a thrilling first
victory in Round 5 of the World
Superbike (WSB) Championships on 11 May in Monza, Italy.
Neukirchner’s win in Race 1 put
him on the record books as the
first German to win a WSB
event.
At two events following
the Monza round, Neukirchner
captured spots on the podium
three times, earning the points
to place him third in Championship standings by the end of
Round 7.
SHOWTIME
and Andrea Dovizioso early on, before getting the best of both of
them on lap eight to move into third place. He then kept his
concentration for the remainder of the race and brought his
Suzuki GSV-R home safely for his second successive podium at
Laguna Seca.
Wildcard rider Ben Spies produced a tremendous
performance against the experienced MotoGP field. Making only
his second GP start from the fifth row, he soon set about making
his way through the pack. By the end of the first lap he was up to
10th and climbed up to eighth place at the chequered flag.
Suzuki MotoGP Partnership
with Motul Celebrates 20th Anniversary
Team Alstare Suzuki rider Max Neukirchner
reacts to his first WSB victory at Monza.
Exciting Suzuki RM-Z450 Performances
in British Motocross Grand Prix
Team Teka Suzuki WMX1 riders Ken De Dycker and Steve Ramon
dominated the opening moto of the British Motocross Grand Prix
at Mallory Park 1 June, finishing
first and second respectively
on their factory RM-Z450s.
The Suzuki pair finished
second and third, with great
riding that brought Suzuki within
four points of the leader in the
Team Teka Suzuki WMX1 rider Ken De
Manufacturer's World ChampionDycker finished British Motocross
ship after the sixth round.
Grand Prix in first place.
At Round 5 of MotoGP in Le Mans, France 17-18 May, two Rizla
Suzuki bikes wore special stickers to commemorate 20 years of
partnership between MOTUL, a French lubricants company, and
Suzuki. The partnership began in 1988 with Motul support for
legendary Suzuki rider Kevin Schwantz, and has stood firm over 20
long years, through numerous technological changes.
Rizla Suzuki MotoGP team riders Chris Vermeulen and Loris
Capirossi proudly displayed the special commemorative Motul stickers
on their GSV-Rs as they
raced to fifth and seventh
place finishes respectively
in the race.
SMC and Joint-Venture
Companies Mount
“Way of Life!” Exhibit at
Beijing Auto Show
Suzuki Motor Corporation (SMC) and Jiangxi
Changhe Suzuki Automobile Co., Ltd.,
Chongqing Changan Suzuki Automobile
Co., Ltd. and Suzuki Motor (China)
Investment Co., Ltd. exhibited jointly at
Auto China 2008, held at Beijing’s new
international exhibition centre 20 ~ 28
April. In an exhibition area of 180,000m2,
the nine-day show featured 1,000 vehicle
exhibits presented by 2,100 companies
including parts makers, and welcomed
approximately 680,000 visitors.
The Suzuki booth, under the “Way
of Life!” brand slogan, featured the
Concept KIZASHI 2, Jimny Land Venture
Concept, GSX-R750, Hayabusa 1300 and
B-KING. Jiangxi Changhe Suzuki Automobile Co., Ltd. also exhibited the Wagon R
Wide, Liana and Landy models, and the
K14B engine; while Chongqing Changan
Suzuki Automobile Co., Ltd., showed the
Swift, SX4 and SX4 sedans alongside the
M16A engine.
At the 20 April press conference,
Board Member and Senior Managing
Executive Officer of SMC Shinzo Nakanishi described the global production and
sales of Suzuki motorcycles and
automobiles and Suzuki growth in the
Chinese market, and introduced the
Concept KIZASHI series.
The three companies will continue
expanding production and sales of
automobiles in China through a growing
network of dealers and introducing new
automobiles.
In addition, Suzuki will expand
production and sales of motorcycles in
China with four production bases — Jinan
Qingqi Suzuki Motorcycle Co., Ltd.
(joint-venture
company),
Jiangmen
Dachangjiang Group Co., Ltd. (technical
tie-ups), Nanjing Jincheng Motorcycle
Co., Ltd. (technical tie-ups), and another
new joint-venture company Changzhou
Haojue Suzuki Motorcycle Co., Ltd.,
newly established in January 2008.
The anniversary seal under the
Suzuki name
Vermeulen Powers to
Second Successive Podium
Rizla Suzuki MotoGP racer
Chris Vermeulen scored his
second podium finish as he
rode to a fantastic third at
MotoGP American Grand
Prix 2008 Sun, 20 Jul.
Starting from eighth on
the grid, Vermeulen was
involved in an exciting
battle with Nicky Hayden
Rizla Suzuki MotoGP racer Chris Vermeulen
got the second podium this season in
American Grand Prix.
Suzuki staff with Japanese “Important Intangible Cultural Property” and Noh
otsuzumi drummer Shonosuke Okura, and Masaki Shimizu, Managing Director of
MOTUL Asia Pacific.
SMC and Chinese partners presented joint exhibit at Auto China 2008.
Chicago Auto Show Suzuki
Exhibit Features Equator
Midsize Pickup Truck
The featured exhibit of American Suzuki
Motor Corporation (ASMC) at the 2008
Chicago Auto Show 8-17 February was
the new Equator midsize pickup truck.
Suzuki’s Equator pickup (the exhibition model)
Named to express the toughness
and dynamic capability of the pickup – as
associated with harsh climactic conditions and magnitude of the globe in
equatorial region - Equator is Suzuki’s
first entry into the US midsize pickup
market. In addition to complementing
ASMC’s sales line-up, the Equator launch
is aimed to enhance Suzuki’s brand
image and expand sales through the
“Way of Life!” strategy.
The Equator display featured three
variations: the Equator RMZ-4 for loading
off-road bikes, the Equator Quad for
carrying ATVs and Equator Quay aimed at
fishing and water sports enthusiasts.
Equator will go on sale in the US
starting October 2008, offered in two
bed shapes (extended cab and crew
cab), as well as 2.5 L and 4.0 L V6 engine
variations. The model will also be
available in rear-wheel and four-wheeldrive, to appeal to a broad customer
base.
The Equator will be produced at the
Smyrna, Tennessee plant of Nissan North
America, Inc., a US subsidiary of Nissan
Motor Corporation. The model will be
supplied on an OEM basis and sold under
the Suzuki brand.
SUZUKI FAMILY
September 2008
10/11
WHAT’S GOIN’ ON?
WHAT’S GOIN’ ON?
SHOWTIME
2008 Stockholm Boat Show
Opens New “Suzuki Hall”
Since 2004, Swedish distributor KGK
Motor AB has expanded Suzuki’s marine
business by introducing boats and boat
packages. The successful cooperation
with several boat builders resulted in the
need for space to display more than 40
different models at boat shows.
For the 2008 Stockholm International Boat Show held 1-9 March, the
management opened up a new fourth
venue not normally used for the Fair. The
more than 2,000m2 Suzuki Hall – which
included spacious adjoining service
areas like meeting and dressing rooms offered a major opportunity to make a
substantial investment in the Suzuki
Marine brand name.
KGK displayed the complete engine
range, as well as 43 boats-ranging from
Suzumar 225 up to a Capelli 32
Daycruiser with twin DF250 and an 11metre Ring Rib Boat with the triple DF300
in the light and airy space. A huge Suzuki
sign near the ceiling and conspicuous
signs at the entrances made it obvious
that Suzuki is heading for a leading
position in the Swedish market.
Even before the show opened,
leading domestic boating magazines
published several articles about the
Suzuki brand name’s higher profile. As a
result, several Suzuki dealers have
established local Suzuki Halls at their
premises.
Many visitors mentioned that the
environment, such as acoustic conditions and ventilation, in Suzuki Hall was
much better than other venues.
When sales figures were calculated
at the end of the Show, participating
dealers unanimously confirmed that sales
results and leads have never been better.
Suzuki Marine Highlights
“Way of Life!” at Istanbul Show
At the Istanbul Boat Show 2008 held 15-24
February in Turkey, SMC distributor Suzuki
Otomobil Pazarlama Ve Ticaret A.S. designed
its exhibit to conform to SMC Corporate
Identity standards under the “Way of Life!”
theme.
Suzuki’s Istanbul Boat Show 2008 exhibit featured
“Way of Life!” theme.
Suzuki Hall, a new venue at the 2008 Stockholm
International Boat Show
Cooperation with boat builders increased size of Suzuki’s display in Stockholm.
IN THE SPOTLIGHT
In addition to hostesses, five Suzuki
staff members were present to take care of
customers throughout at the 221m2 stand,
which included an office space for business
deals. On display were 16 units of Suzuki
outboards, plus a Joker Boat and a Zodiac
equipped with Suzuki DF40TLs. Two Suzuki
outboards were also fitted on boats at the
Jeanneau stand.
Suzuki Staff offered a 20% discount
throughout the Show, with good sales
results. Visiting customers signed 14 sales
contracts, and 15 different fibre boat manufacturers met with Suzuki staff to discuss
future business cooperation.
Overall attendance at the 2008 Show
increased 6% over 2007, reaching a total
125,000 visitors. The exhibits covered
70,000m2, over the main hall and seven
others. With participation by 330 different
brands, the product groups covered every
aspect of Marine business: boating accessories and vessel construction materials, speed
and cruise boats, motor yachts and power
equipment, water sports gear, beachwear
and accessories, and marine rescue and
emergency equipment.
Journalists Enjoy Test Drives at
Pan European Launch of Splash
At the Suzuki Splash Pan European Press
Launch in Cannes, France 4-8 February,
some 400 journalists from 25 European
countries test-drove the brand-new Splash
from Nice Airport to Port Canto in Cannes.
Besides the 65 test-drive vehicles, three
Splash cars were displayed at the Hotel
Martinez, a landmark venue of the Cannes
Film Festival.
After the test drive, Board Member and
Senior Managing Executive Officer Toshihiro
Suzuki of Global Marketing, General Manager
Stefan Gundelach of the European Marketing
Centre and several chief development
officers appeared at the press presentation.
SMC President and COO Hiroshi Tsuda
welcomed journalists and explained the
Splash’s role of meeting the needs of modern
urban families, the next phase of Suzuki’s
world marketing strategy.
The media’s response to the Splash’s urban
lifestyle potential was positive, praising the
spacious interior, attractive styling and great
handling. Participants also liked the comfortable driving position, with adjustable front
seat height and positionable steering wheel.
dunes of Mhamid. The challenging two-day
expedition through the desert with the
standard-equipped vehicles illustrated why
this model has stayed in Spain’ s top-selling
rank of 4X4s in 2006, 2007 and the first
quarter of 2008.
The expedition took participants to
various historic ruins and off-road venues in
Morocco. Along the way, General Commercial
Manager of Suzuki Motor Ibérica Juan López
Frade expanded good relations with the
region’s population by presenting the chiefs
of two small villages with winter clothes and
shoes for residents.
The event demonstrated the Grand
Vitara’ s powerful
4x4 capabilities by
challenging oueds
(sand rivers) and
the dunes sea at
Grand Vitara Expedition in
Erg Laoudi.
Moroccan desert
Splash Production Begins at
Esztergom in Hungary
Serial production of Magyar Suzuki
Corporation’ s new fourth “strategic world
model” , the Splash, started in Hungary on 8
February 2008.
The production launch began with a dance
spectacle and an assembly demonstration
using a styrofoam Splash. Hungarian State
Secretary Gábor Dióssy drove the first
turquoise blue Splash off the production line,
directed by Japanese Ambassador to Hungary
Shinichi Nabekura. Among the distinguished
Splash test drive press conference
Spanish Distributor Sponsors
Grand Vitara Adventure
in Morocco
Automotive journalists and VIPS participated
in a 2-6 April Suzuki Grand Vitara event in
Morocco sponsored by Suzuki Motor Ibérica
that started in Ouarzazate and finished in the
Left to right: Hungarian State Secretary Gábor Dióssy and
SMC President & COO Hiroshi Tsuda at Splash line-off
ceremony
guests were SMC President and COO Hiroshi
Tsuda, as well as former Hungarian Prime
Minister Péter Medgyesi. Former Suzuki
Hungary Zrt CEO Kazuhisa Toda, new CEO
Isao Ozawa and Esztergom Mayor Tamás
Meggyes all spoke at the ribbon-cutting
ceremony.
State Secretary Gábor Dióssy pointed out
in his remarks that Suzuki is a nice example
of cooperation between the giants and
smaller businesses. So far, SMC has
attracted 19 foreign supply companies to
Hungary and there are more than 70
Hungarian suppliers.
Magyar Suzuki Co-Sponsors
International Youth Football
Tournament in Hungary
This year’ s Puskás-Suzuki Cup football tournament, established and sponsored by
Magyar Suzuki Corporation in partnership
with Puskás Ferenc Football Academy, was
played 14-15 June at Puskás Academy and
Székesfehérvár Stadium in Hungary.
The Cup - which teaches youth fair competition and helps them prepare for a healthy
and dynamic adult lifestyle - featured competition among four teams: Real Madrid
(Spain), Panathinaikos (Greece) and Honved
and Puskás Academies (both from Hungary).
Real Madrid won
the gold medal,
scoring five goals
on the Puskas
Academy who
took the silver.
The Greek team
won the Bronze Exciting football play at
Puskás-Suzuki Cup
medal, beating
Honvéd by 1:0.
The Cup honors football legend Ferenc
Puskás, captain of the undefeated “Magic
Magyars” Hungarian Team. This year’ s event
included a tournament of adult teams from
Magyar Suzuki, Puskás Academy and
journalists, as well as face-painting and
inflatable bouncers for small children, and
concerts for everyone. Next year, MSC plans
to invite additional youth teams from other
countries, including Japan.
SUZUKI FAMILY
September 2008
12/13
WHAT’S GOIN’ ON?
IN THE SPOTLIGHT
Malaysian Joint Venture
Makes Exciting Start
On 21 April, SMC and Itochu Corporation of
Japan announced a joint venture agreement
with DRB-HICOM, one of Malaysia’ s leading
conglomerates, signalling an exciting new
start for Suzuki Malaysia Automobile(SMA).
At a National Dealer Conference on 21
April, SMA shared its plans with the 27 Suzuki
dealers of Malaysia’ s network. Leading
restructured management will be new Managing Director Ibrahim Maidin, who has 27
years of experience.
Malaysian appreciation of the brand is
strong, with sales of Suzuki passenger
vehicles in 2007/2008 soaring to 261% of the
previous fiscal year (FY), amounting to total
sales of 3,318 units compared to 1,272 in
the previous FY. Malaysian market response
has been strong to the locally assembled
Suzuki Swift 1.5L launched in July 2007 and
three exciting CBU models: Swift Sport,
Grand Vitara and the all-new SX4 Sport
Crossover. SMA has set a sales target of
8,000 units for FY 2008/2009.
showing the stadium’ s sponsor message
boards broadcast the Suzuki logo throughout
China, and the TVCF broadcast of Suzuki
models on sale in China, including the SX4,
was well received.
Suzuki’ s interests in China include wholly
owned subsidiary Suzuki Motor (China)
Investment Co., Ltd. of Beijing; and two joint
ventures: Jiangxi Changhe Suzuki Automobile
Co., Ltd. and Chongqing Changan Suzuki
Automobile Co., Ltd. in the vicinity of the
championships venue.
Riders in the Italian Suzuki Motor Party 2008
Suzuki Motor de Mexico
Opens New Company Building
Japanese (blue) and China (red) football players in play at
EAFF finals
Italy’s Suzuki Motor Party 2008
a Great Success
National Dealer Conference participants in Malaysia
Suzuki Sponsors High-Profile
EAFF Championship Finals
SMC sponsored the East Asian Football
Federation (EAFF) football championships
held in Chongqing, China 17-24 February.
Four teams selected from countries and
regions competed in the finals: the People’s
Republic of China, Japan, the Democratic
People’ s Republic of Korea and the Republic
of Korea. The men’s winning team was from
The Republic of Korea, while the team from
Japan took the women’s championship.
Supporting the EAFF Championship helps
enhance Suzuki’s brand image in China and
throughout Asia. Television coverage
an engine-checking test bench, plus music
and entertainment with Radio International
during the day and a Saturday night rock
concert.
The top yearly event for Italian Suzuki bike
fans, the Suzuki Motor Party, ran 25-27 April
on Misano Adriatico, Valentino Rossi’ s
famous circuit. More than 700 people were
invited to test performance of 45 GSXR600/750/1000s provided by Suzuki Italy,
while another 2,000 were allowed to test
their own Suzukis on the circuit.
Attendees also rode the V-Strom and the
Bandit (Traveller edition), GSR600, BURGMAN
400 and 200, INTRUDER 1800 and B-KING in
the green landscape of Romagna. Visitors to
the paddock were introduced to the new
Sixteen scooter and the Van Van on an
exciting mini circuit with obstacles, with
prizes for the best riders.
Other events included breathless free style
exhibitions with the Team MD Racing,
football table tournaments with the t-shirt
brand Footable partners, gadget giveaways,
In September of 2005, Suzuki Motor de
Mexico began to sell automobiles, in addition
to motorcycles and outboard motors. Since
the distributors existing building and
warehouse were too small to accommodate
the expansion, the company constructed a
new 17,000m 2 facility in Cuautitlan Izcalli,
Estado de Mexico, situated in the northwest
part of Mexico City.
The opening ceremony for the new building on 10 July this year welcomed about 200
guests. Among the dignitaries present were
Japanese Ambassador to Mexico Masaaki
Ono; Mayor of Cuatitlan Izcalli; and representatives of the Ministries of Economy, Environment and Natural Resources and other central government agencies. SMC Board
Member and Senior Managing Executive Officer of Global Marketing, Toshihiro Suzuki and
General Director of SM de Mexico Masashi
Tsunemi attended, as did numerous journalists and industry VIPs.
Celebratory breaking of a sake barrel
by distinguished guests
Rider Magazine Names B-KING
“Best Sport-Stand Motorcycle”
The editors of Rider magazine, a publication
of Affinity Powersports Media, named the
2008 Suzuki B-KING “Best Sport-Standard
Motorcycle” at the Affinity Powersports 2008
Awards of Excellence dinner on 7 May in
Newport Beach, California.
The Affinity Awards is a national competition that recognizes best of class machines
and industry leaders across several powersports markets for trend-setting innovation,
state-of-the-art technology and market
appeal. Affinity rates powersports manufacturers and industry leaders for their new
products, technology and innovation.
Rider Editor Mark Tuttle explains the
B-king’s appeal, “Power--oh so much heavenly power--travels rearward in the B-KING
through a hydraulically actuated wet clutch,
six-speed transmission and O-ring chain.
Though its power delivery is very linear and
the bike is surprisingly easy to ride, suffice it
to say that your dreams of becoming an
astronaut will be closer to reality than ever
when you liftoff on the B-KING … . In a word,
overall I’m astounded by the B-KING.”
Glenn Hansen, American
Suzuki Motor Corp.
Motorcycle/ATV Division
Communications Manager
(left) and a presenter from
Rider magazine (right)
European distributors: Volvo Penta France for
highest sales in large horsepower category
over 36.8kW(50PS), Suzuki Italia SpA for
highest sales of V6 engines over 147.0kW
(200PS) and Stingray (West Russia) for highest sales volume.
“We are particularly pleased with the
growth of sales and market share this year
which puts Suzuki in a strong position to
take a shot at being the number one in
Europe. The efforts of our distributors have
helped to make Europe our fastest growing
market”, Yamamoto said.
The new DF70/80/90 range – official European launch will be in August - heralds the
introduction of lighter and more compact
outboards and features the all-new
Suzuki lean-burn
system for classleading fuel economy.
Amsterdam test drives of DF70/80/90 outboards
Suzuki Distributor Sponsors
Clean Shore Campaign
Vladivostok Russia’ s Suzuki Marine distributor 1000 Size Co. Ltd. helped sponsor
an all-day Clean Shore Campaign event,
held this June on Russkiy Island.
The campaign - organized by local boating
Suzuki Marine Celebrates
clubs and the World Wildlife Fund to help
European Success
preserve the island’s unique flora and fauna
On 12–13 June in Amsterdam, Suzuki Marine – has become a popular event among
celebrated a year of exceptional European
sales performance, hosting 50 delegates of
18 European distributors from 17 countries
for the first European test drive of the
company’s new DF70/80/90 outboards.
Group Leader Masahiro Yamamoto, of
Suzuki’s European Marine Marketing Group,
Suzuki-equipped boats at Russian
p r e s e n t e d a w a r d s t o t h e y e a r ’ s t o p Clean Shore event
boaters. As many as 400 volunteers
collected and disposed of garbage left on the
small island, a popular weekend destination
for boaters in the region.
With the goal of raising environmental
consciousness, displaying Suzuki marine
products and demonstrating our corporate
commitment to a clean environment, 1000
Size offered test rides, rotating several
different Suzuki outboards with three
inflatable boats. Many participants enjoyed
test ride, and were impressed with its
quietness and clean emission.
“Best in Show” Safety Award
for Suzuki at Miami
International Boat Show
At the 2008 Miami International Boat Show
12-16 February, Suzuki Marine was named the
“Best Educational Partner” for spotlighting the
importance of wearing life jackets in the
Suzuki display.
The coveted “Show It, Don’t Stow It” award
is sponsored by the United States Coast
Guard, National Marine Manufacturers
Association
and
other
organizations
concerned with boating safety. Executive
Director of National Safe Boating Council
Virgil Chambers remarked “It was an honour…
to recognize Suzuki for the visibility of life
jackets in its advertising and what the
company is doing to give a higher level of
consciousness to recreational boaters –
showing boat operations the right way.”
Accepting the award for Suzuki, Public
Relations leader Dean Corbisier said “At
Suzuki we feel that it’s our duty to clearly
portray the importance of safety gear and
encourage our customers to make life jacket
usage a way of life.”
Presentation of “Best in Show” Safety Award
to Suzuki Marine at Miami Boat Show
SUZUKI FAMILY
September 2008
14/15