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Suzuki Motor Corporation (スズキ株式会社 Suzuki Kabushiki-gaisha?) is a multinational corporation headquartered in Hamamatsu, Japan that specializes in manufacturing compact automobiles, a full range of motorcycles, All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs), outboard marine engines, wheelchairs and a variety of other small internal combustion engines. Suzuki is the 12th largest automobile manufacturer in the world by production volume, employs over 45,000 people, has 35 main production facilities in 23 countries and 133 distributors in 192 countries.

“Suzuki” is pronounced in Japanese as “soo-zoo-kee” /suzuki/, with emphasis on a high “kee”. It is almost always pronounced in English as “suh-ZOO-kee” /səˈzuːki/, with a stressed “zoo”. This pronunciation is used by the English-speaking public and by the Suzuki company in marketing campaigns directed towards this demographic.

History

In 1909, Michio Suzuki founded the Suzuki Loom Company in the small seacoast village of Hamamatsu, Japan. Business boomed as Suzuki built weaving looms for Japan’s giant silk industry. In 1929, Michio Suzuki invented a new type of weaving machine, which was exported overseas. Suzuki filed as many as 120 patents and utility model rights. The company’s first 30 years focused on the development and production of these exceptionally complex machines.

Despite the success of his looms, Suzuki realized his company had to diversify and he began to look at other products. Based on consumer demand, he decided that building a small car would be the most practical new venture. The project began in 1937, and within two years Suzuki had completed several compact prototype cars. These first Suzuki motor vehicles were powered by a then-innovative, liquid-cooled, four-stroke, four-cylinder engine. It featured a cast aluminum crankcase and gearbox and generated 13 horsepower (9.7 kW) from a displacement of less than 800cc.

With the onset of World War II, production plans for Suzuki’s new vehicles were halted when the government declared civilian passenger cars a “non-essential commodity.” At the conclusion of the war, Suzuki went back to producing looms. Loom production was given a boost when the U.S. government approved the shipping of cotton to Japan. Suzuki’s fortunes brightened as orders began to increase from domestic textile manufacturers. But the joy was short-lived as the cotton market collapsed in 1951.

Faced with this colossal challenge, Suzuki’s thoughts went back to motor vehicles. After the war, the Japanese had a great need for affordable, reliable personal transportation. A number of firms began offering “clip-on” gas-powered engines that could be attached to the typical bicycle. Suzuki’s first two-wheel ingenuity came in the form of a motorized bicycle called, the “Power Free.” Designed to be inexpensive and simple to build and maintain, the 1952 Power Free featured a 36 cc two-stroke engine. An unprecedented feature was the double-sprocket gear system, enabling the rider to either pedal with the engine assisting, pedal without engine assist, or simply disconnect the pedals and run on engine power alone. The system was so ingenious that the patent office of the new democratic government granted Suzuki a financial subsidy to continue research in motorcycle engineering, and so was born Suzuki Motor Corporation.

In 1953, Suzuki scored the first of many racing victories when the tiny 60 cc “Diamond Free” won its class in the Mount Fuji Hill Climb.

Suzulight

By 1954, Suzuki was producing 6,000 motorcycles per month and had officially changed its name to Suzuki Motor Co., Ltd. Following the success of its first motorcycles, Suzuki created an even more successful automobile: the 1955 Suzulight. Suzuki showcased its penchant for innovation from the beginning. The Suzulight included front-wheel drive, four-wheel independent suspension and rack-and-pinion steering — features common on cars half a century later.

Historical timeline

1905 – Founder of Suzuki is Mr Michio Suzuki1909 – Suzuki Loom Works founded in Hamamatsu, Shizuoka Prefecture, by Michio Suzuki.1920 – Reorganized, incorporated, and capitalized at 500,000 yen as Suzuki Loom Manufacturing Co. with Michio Suzuki as president.1952 – ‘Power Free’ motorized bicycle marketed.1954 – Company name changed to Suzuki Motor Co.,Ltd.1955 – Lightweight car ‘Suzulight’ (360cc, 2-stroke) marketed helping to usher in Japan’s light-weight car age.1961 – Suzuki Loom Manufacturing Co. established by separating the loom machine division from the motor works and lightweight truck ‘Suzulight Carry’ marketed.1962 – Suzuki won the 50 cc class championship at the Isle of Man TT1963 – U.S. Suzuki Motor Corp., a direct sales subsidiary, opened in Los Angeles.1965 – ‘D55’ (5.5 hp, 2-stroke) outboard motor marketed and makes early inroads and Fronte 800 marketed.1967 – Thai Suzuki Motor Co., Ltd. established as a local assembly plant.1968 – Carry full-cab van marketed.1970 – LJ-Series4X4 marketed.1971 – GT750 motorcycle marketed.1973 – Suzuki Canada Ltd., opened in Ontario, Canada.1974 – P.T. Suzuki Indonesia Manufacturing established in Jakarta, Indonesia, entry into medical equipment field by marketing the Suzuki Motor Chair Z600 motorized wheelchair, expansion into the housing field initiated with Suzuki Home marketing two models of prefab ‘Mini-House’ and three types of storage sheds.1975 – Antonio Suzuki Corp., a joint venture for knockdown production and sales, established in Manila, the Philippines.1976 – GS-Series motorcycles marketed.1977 – LJ804x4 vehicle marketed and exports of GS1000Hmotorcycle began.1979 – Alto marketed.1979 – SC100 marketed in the UK.1980 – Suzuki Australia Pty. Ltd. established in Sydney, Australia and entry into general purpose engine field by marketing three electric power generator models.1981 – Business ties with General Motors (U.S.) and Isuzu Motors, Ltd.(Japan) signed.1982 – 4X4 production began at PAK Suzuki Motor Co., Ltd. in Karachi, Pakistan and won maker championship for 7th consecutive year at the World Road Race Grand Prix 500.1982 – SC100 Discontinued in favour of Alto.1983 – Enters into a partnership with Maruti Udyog Ltd. to produce cars in India.1983 – Cultus/Swift 1.0-liter passenger car marketed and 4X4 production started at Maruti Udyog Ltd. in New Delhi, India.1984 – Suzuki New Zealand Ltd. established in Wanganui, New Zealand and began export of Chevrolet Sprint to the United States. Car production technical assistance contract signed with China National Aerotechnology Import & Export Beijing Corporation. Operation of Suzuki Motor GmbHDeutschland began in Heppenheim,Germany.1985 – SUZUKI of AMERICA AUTOMOTIVE CORP. established with the introduction of the Samurai, and the sensational GSX-R750motorcycle with an oil-cooled engine marketed and scooter production started at Avello S.A. of Spain. Agreement with Santana Motors to produce Suzuki cars in their Linares factory in Andalusia, Spain.1986 – American Suzuki Motor Corp. is formed merging U.S. Suzuki Motor Corp and Suzuki of America Automotive Corp.1987 – Cultus/Swift production began in Colombia and total aggregate car exports reached 2 million units.1988 – Escudo/Vitara 4×4 marketed and total aggregate car production reached 10 million units..1989 – CAMI Automotive Inc. established and began operation in Ontario, Canada. Swift GT/GLX and Sidekick sales begin in the United States.1990 – Corporate name changed to Suzuki Motor Corporation.1991 – Car production started in Korea through technical ties with Daewoo Shipbuilding & Heavy Machinery Ltd and Cappuccino 2-seater marketed.

The Suzuki plant in Esztergom, Hungary has over 6000 employees. (As of 2007)1993 – Passenger car production/sales began at Suzuki Egypt S.A.E., opening ceremony for new car production plant held at Magyar Suzuki Corp. in Esztergom, Hungary and Wagon R passenger car marketed.1994 – Maruti Udyog Ltd. of India total aggregate car production reached 1 million units.1995 – Total aggregate motorcycle export reached 20 million units1996 – Start of production in Vietnam (Motorcycles and automobiles)1997 – Achieved 10 million cumulative automobile sales for overseas market and 4-strokeoutboard motors win the Innovation Award at The International Marine Trade Exhibit and Conference (IMTEC) in Chicago.1998 – Suzuki and General Motors form strategic alliance and ChongqingChang’an Suzuki Automobile Co., Ltd. received official approval from the Chinese government for production of passenger cars.1999 – Aggregatemotorcycle production reaches 40 million units and JiangxiChanghe Suzuki Automobile Co., Ltd. receives official approval from the Chinese government for production of commercial vehicles.2000 – The company commemorates the 80th anniversary, aggregate car production at Kosai Plant reaches 10 million units and Suzuki production starts at General Motors de Argentina S.A.2001 – Aggregate worldwide sales of SJ-Series reaches 2 million units, production of Alto reaches 4 million units and Suzuki achieves “Zero-Level” target of landfill waste2002 – Achieved 30 million cumulative automobile sales for worldwide market and America’s #1 warranty: 100,000/7-year powertrain limited warranty.2003 – Suzuki is #1 in Keicar sales for the 30th consecutive year and Twin, the first hybridKeicar in Japan, marketed.2004 – Aggregate domestic automobile sales reach 15 million units2005 – Swift was awarded the 2006 RJC Car of the Year.2006 – New XL7 is marketed particularly to the North American market; and GM divested, selling 92.36 million shares and reducing their stake to 3%.2008 – Suzuki introduces its first production fuel-injected motocross bike; and GM divested its remaining 3% stake in Suzuki.2009 – Suzuki introduces its first production pickup truck called the Equator.

Maruti Suzuki

Main article: Maruti Suzuki

Maruti Suzuki’s A-Star vehicle during its unveiling in Pragati Maidan, Delhi. A-Star, Suzuki’s fifth global car model, was designed and is made only in India.[1] Besides being Suzuki’s largest subsidiary in terms of car sales, Maruti Suzuki is also Suzuki’s leading research and development arm outside Japan

Based in Gurgaon, India, Maruti Suzuki India Limited is Suzuki’s largest and most valuable subsidiary with an annual production of 626,071 units in 2006.[2] Suzuki has a 54.2% stake in the Indian auto giant and the rest is owned by the various Indian public and financial institutions. The company was incorporated in 1981 and is listed on the Bombay Stock Exchange and National Stock Exchange of India.[3] In 2005-2006, the company had a 54% market share of the passenger car market in India.[4] Nearly 75,000 people are employed directly by Maruti and its partners.

Maruti Suzuki was born as a Government of India company, with Suzuki as a minor partner, to make a people’s car for middle class India. Over the years, the product range has widened, ownership has changed hands and the customer has evolved.

Maruti Suzuki offers 14 models, ranging from India’s one-time best selling car, Maruti 800, for less than INR 200,000 (US$ 5000) to the premium sedan Maruti Suzuki SX4 and luxury SUV, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara. Maruti 800 was the first model launched by the company in 1983 followed by mini-van Maruti Omni in 1984. Both models were huge success in their respective categories because of the use of high-end technology and good fuel efficiency. Maruti Gypsy, launched in 1985, came into widespread use with the Indian Army and Indian Police Service becoming its primary customers. The short-lived Maruti 1000 too achieved moderate success until it was replaced by Maruti Esteem in 1994, to counter increasing competition in the medium-sedan category.

Maruti Zen, launched in 1993, was the company’s second compact car model and also became extremely popular in India because of its high performance. The company went on to launch another compact car Maruti Wagon-R followed by Maruti Baleno in 1999. However, with increasing competition from Tata, Hyundai, Honda and Daewoo Motors, Maruti was not able to achieve the same success with Wagon-R and Baleno as it had with its earlier models.So it Replaced Maruti Suzuki Baleno with the Suzuki SX4 and is going to replace Wagon-R with Suzuki Splash.Currently SX4 is the largest selling car in its segment.

In 2000, Maruti Alto was launched. The launch of Tata Indica and Hyundai Santro had affected Maruti’s sales but Alto helped secure the company’s position as the auto leader in India. It is currently the largest selling car in India. The Maruti models include Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, launched in 2003, Maruti Versa, launched in 2004, Maruti Suzuki Swift, launched in 2005, Maruti Zen Estilo and Maruti Suzuki SX4, launched in 2007. The Alto, Swift and SX4 are leaders in their respective segments in the Indian Market.

On 14 February, Maruti Suzuki India, a Suzuki subsidiary in India, announced that it achieved one million total accumulated production volume of the Alto. The Alto has reached the million units mark in just seven years and five months since its launch on September 2000. The last half of the million has come in a record 25 months. The Alto has been India’s largest volume-selling car, every month, for the past 37 consecutive months. Its popularity has continued to grow since its launch, with customers attracted to its combination of fuel efficiency, contemporary design and looks and features including Electronic Power Steering and air-conditioning. With this the Alto became the third car in the Maruti Suzuki stable to cross the million units mark. Previously, the Maruti 800 and the Omni had exceeded the million units mark. Besides its success in India, over 152,000 Altos made at Maruti Suzuki were delivered internationally, enjoying good outcomes in Algeria and Chile.

Maruti Exports Limited is the subsidiary of Maruti Udyog Limited with its major focus on exports and it does not operate in the domestic Indian market. The first commercial consignment of 480 cars were sent to Hungary. By sending a consignment of 571 cars to the same country, Maruti crossed the benchmark of 3,000,000 cars. Since its inception export was one of the aspects the government has been keen to encourage. Every political party expected Maruti to earn foreign exchange.

Angola, Benin, Djibouti, Ethiopia, Europe, Kenya, Morocco, Sri Lanka, Uganda, Chile, Guatemala, Costa Rica and El Salvador are some of the markets served by Maruti Exports [5]

American Suzuki Motor Corp. history

American Suzuki headquarters is located in Brea, California. Through an agreement with General Motors, Suzuki began selling a version of their Suzuki Cultus in United States as the Chevrolet Sprint in 1985. This model was initially sold as a 3-door hatchback and would be Chevrolet’s smallest model.

2004 Suzuki XL-7

The Samurai was also introduced in 1985 for the 1986 model year and was the first car introduced to the United States by the newly created American Suzuki Corp. No other Japanese company sold more cars in the United States in its first year than Suzuki. The Samurai was available as a convertible or hardtop and the company slogan was Never a Dull Moment. The Samurai was successful until Consumer Reports alleged the Samurai of being susceptible to roll over in a 1988 test.

In 1989, American Suzuki introduced the Swift which was the 2nd generation Suzuki Cultus. The Swift was available as a GTi and GLX hatchback with a 4-door sedan following in 1990. A new small SUV called the Sidekick was also introduced in 1989. 1991 saw the introduction of the 4-door Suzuki Sidekick, the first 4-door mini-SUV in North America. The Swift and Sidekick were cousins to GM’s Geo Metro and Geo Tracker and were mostly produced in Ingersoll, Ontario, Canada by Suzuki and GM’s joint venture, CAMI. The Swift GT/GTi and 4-door models were imported from Japan. Negative evaluations from Consumer Reports of the Suzuki Samurai led to some temporary setbacks at American Suzuki as annual sales in the following years dropped to below 20,000 units.

In 1995, American Suzuki introduced the Esteem and redesigned the Swift. The Swift GT was dropped and this version Swift was specific only to North America where it was built at CAMI. These models were the first Suzuki vehicles to be marketed in North America with dual front airbags. A stationwagon version of the Esteem was introduced in 1996. Worldwide Suzuki production reached more than 975,000 cars this year.

Also in 1996, American Suzuki released the 2-door SUV X-90 and a revised Sidekick Sport model with dual airbags, a 120hp 1.8-liter engine, 16″ wheels and two-tone paint. The Sidekick was replaced by the Vitara and the Grand Vitara for 1999. The Grand Vitara would be Suzuki’s first model with a V6-cylinder engine and available 4-wheel ABS brakes.

The Grand Vitara XL-7 was introduced in 2001 as a stretched version of the Grand Vitara. The Grand Vitara XL-7 had a larger 2.7 liter V6-cylinder engine and 3-row seating. This would be Suzuki’s largest vehicle to date and the first compact SUV to offer 3-row seating.

The Swift was dropped from the model lineup in 2001 and the Esteem was replaced in 2002 by the new Aerio. The Aerio was offered as a 4-door sedan and 5-door crossover with 4-wheel-drive as an option.

In 2004, General Motors and Suzuki jointly purchased the bankrupt Daewoo Motors renaming the venture GMDAT. American Suzuki rebadged the compact Daewoo Nubira/Daewoo Lacetti as the Forenza and the mid-size Daewoo Magnus as the Verona. The Forenza gained stationwagon and hatchback body style in 2005, with the hatchback sold under the Reno name.

2006 was the first year American Suzuki sold more than 100,000 vehicles in the United States. Suzuki redesigned the Grand Vitara in 2006 as well as introduced the all-new Suzuki SX4 and Suzuki XL7 in 2007. The Suzuki SX4 is produced as a joint venture with Fiat S.p.A. and the Suzuki XL7 (notice the shortening of the name from Grand Vitara XL-7) is produced as a joint venture with GM at CAMI Automotive Inc. in Ingersoll.

Despite a difficult domestic US automarket, Suzuki has been keeping pace with its 2007 sales numbers including recording their best May ever in May 2008.[6]

Pakistani Suzuki Motor Company Limited

Following the terms of the Joint Venture Agreement between Suzuki Motor Corporation of Japan (SMC) and Pakistan Automobile Corporation (PACO), Pak Suzuki Motor Company Limited (PSMCL) was incorporated as a public limited company in August 1983. [7]

The new company assumed the assets, including production facilities ,of Awami Autos Limited. PSMCL started commercial operations in January 1984 with the primary objective of passenger cars, pick ups, vans and 4×4 vehicles.

The groundbreaking ceremony of the company’s green field automobile plant at Bin Qasim was performed by the then prime Minister of Pakistan in early 1989.

On completion of first phase of this plant in early 1990, in-house assembly Suzuki engines started. The new plant was completed in 1992, and Suzuki production was transferred to new plant — and three box 1300 cc Margalla car was also added to its range of production.

In September 1992 the company was privatized and placed directly under the Japanese Management. At the time of privatization SMC increased its equity from 25% to 40% Subsequently, SMC progressively increased its equity to 73.09% by December 31,2001.

The Bin Qasim Plant further expanded its production capacity to 50,000 vehicles per year in July 1994 and 300,000 vehicles had been manufactured at this plant by December 2003.

Today Paksuzuki has one of the most modern automobile manufacturing plants in South Asia and currently exports its cars to countries like Bangladesh, Ghana, Nigeria & Maldives.

Suzuki Canada Inc. history

1973 – June 1, Suzuki Canada Ltd. was incorporated with offices at Downsview, Ontario. Product lines included motorcycles, parts and accessories to Suzuki dealers throughout Canada.1974 – Vancouver branch office and warehouse inaugurated to service dealers in western Canada.1980 – Autumn – Suzuki Canada began its automotive sales with the marketing and sales of four-wheel-LJ80 in eastern Canada. November 1, the name of company changed from Suzuki Canada Ltd. to Suzuki Canada Inc.1982 – Introduction of a line of Suzuki all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) in Canada.1983 – Introduction of a line of Suzuki outboard motors in western Canada. February 1, 1983 – Western Branch moved to enlarged facilities in Richmond, British Columbia.1984 – Began the sales of ‘Suzuki Forsa’ (Suzuki Cultus) automobile.1986 – A $600 million Suzuki-GM joint venture CAMI Automotive Inc. announced for the manufacturing of vehicles. Production was set to begin in 1989 at Ingersoll, Ontario.1987 – January 25 – Suzuki Canada Inc. moved to a new 110,000 sq ft (10,000 m2). head office and warehouse facility at Richmond Hill, Ontario.1988 – Autumn – Suzuki began selling the CAMI-built 2-door Suzuki Sidekick.

OEM deals

Since 1985, Suzuki has shared or produced automobiles for other manufacturers around the world.

General MotorsChevrolet Sprint – United States (Suzuki Cultus)Pontiac Firefly – Canada (Suzuki Cultus)Geo Metro – United States (Suzuki Cultus)Holden Barina – Australia (Suzuki Cultus)Chevrolet Swift – South America (Suzuki Cultus)Chevrolet Cruze – Japan (Suzuki Ignis)Holden Cruze – Australia (Suzuki Ignis)Bedford Rascal – Europe (Suzuki Carry)Vauxhall Rascal – United Kingdom (Suzuki Carry)Holden Scurry – Australia (Suzuki Carry)Chevrolet Supercarry – South America (Suzuki Carry)Geo Tracker – United States (Sidekick/Vitara)Chevrolet Tracker – United States (Sidekick/Vitara)Pontiac Sun Runner – Canada (Sidekick/Vitara)Chevrolet Grand Nomad – South America (Suzuki XL7)Holden Drover – Australia/New Zealand (Suzuki Sierra/Samurai)Opel Agila – Europe (Suzuki Wagon R and Suzuki Splash)Vauxhall Agila – United Kingdom (Suzuki Wagon R and Suzuki Splash)

SubaruSubaru Justy – Europe (Suzuki Swift)

MazdaMazda Proceed – Japan (Suzuki Vitara)Mazda Carol – Japan (Suzuki Alto)Autozam AZ-1 – Japan (Suzuki Cara)Autozam Scrum – Japan (Suzuki Every)Autozam AZ-Wagon – Japan (Suzuki MR Wagon)Autozam Offroad – Japan (Suzuki Jimny)Autozam Spiano – Japan (Suzuki Lapin)

NissanNissan Moco – Japan (Suzuki MR Wagon)

Maruti SuzukiMaruti 800 – India (Suzuki Alto)Maruti Omni – India (Suzuki Carry)Maruti Gypsy – India (Suzuki Jimny)Maruti 1000 – India (Suzuki Swift)Maruti Zen – India (Suzuki Cervo)

  • All Maruti models since the Zen are referred to as Maruti Suzuki.

Automobiles

  • Suzuki models
    • Aerio/Liana
    • Alto
    • Alto Lapin
    • APV
    • Cappuccino
    • Carry
    • Cervo
    • Suzuki Cultus (aka Suzuki Forsa, Geo Metro, Pontiac Firefly, et al)
    • Escudo
    • Suzuki Equator
    • Esteem/Cultus Crescent
    • Fronte
    • Grand Vitara
    • Ignis
    • Jimny
    • Kizashi
    • LJ-Series
    • MightyBoy
    • MR Wagon
    • Sidekick
    • Splash
    • Swift
    • SX4
    • SX4 Crossover
    • SX4 Sport
    • Suzuki Twin
    • Wagon R
    • X-90
    • XL7
  • Daewoo based North American models
    • Swift+
    • Forenza/Reno
    • Verona
  • Chevrolet based South American models
    • Fun

Motorcycles

2002 Suzuki FXR150

Suzuki started manufacturing motorcycles in 1952, the first models being motorized bicycles. During the 1950s, 1960s and the better part of the 1970s, the company manufactured motorcycles with two-stroke engines only, the biggest two-stroke model being the water-cooled triple-cylinder GT750.

A large factor in Suzuki’s success in two-stroke competition was the East German Grand Prix racer Ernst Degner, who defected to the West in 1961, bringing with him expertise in two-stroke engines from the East German manufacturer MZ. Suzuki hired Degner, and he won the 50cc F.I.M. road racing World Championship for them in 1962. Suzuki became the first Japanese manufacturer to win a motocross world championship when Joel Robert won the 1970 250cc title. In the 1970s, Suzuki established themselves in the motorcycle racing world with Barry Sheene and Roger De Coster winning world championships in the premier 500 cc division in road racing and motocross respectively.

However, it wasn’t until 1976 that Suzuki introduced its first motorcycle with a four-stroke engine, the GS400 and GS750. Since then, Suzuki has established a reputation as a manufacturer of well-engineered sport motorcycles.[citation needed]

In 1994, Suzuki partnered with Nanjing Jincheng Machinery to create a Chinese motorcycle manufacturer and exporter called Jincheng Suzuki.

Suzuki continues to compete in MotoGP and last won the title in 2000. Since 2006, the team is sponsored by Rizla and is known as Rizla Suzuki MotoGP team.

Models

Main article: List of Suzuki motorcycles

• Hayabusa ( GSX1300R ) • GSX-R1000 • GSX-R750 • GSX-R600 • GSX650F • SV1000S • SV650SF • FA50 ( Moped )

Hayabusa ( GSX1300R ) The Legendary motorcycle, it was a shift in manufacturing speed/sport/super sport motorcycle industry from both technical and design aspects, and although other bikes overcame its performance, the legend of Hayabusa survived from 1998 until 2008 when the new design was unleashed, but the name Hayabusa is an icon to the power of the sport bike carrying the highest speed records of a commercially sold bike of over 320KM/H (200M/H), as the name Ninja to the looking of the sport bike which was called to the Kawasaki product.

GSX-R1000 claimed to be the highest selling numbers of a 1000 cc bike in history, the GSXR1000 first launched in 2000, remained in the top appreciated bikes ever because it’s performance was always a benchmark in the market for all other bikes.

GSX-R750 The grandfather of the GSXR-1000, this designation is more than 25 years old and this model is being updated/redesigned entirely every 2-4 years, with the new 2009 model receiving high praise. The GSX-R750 is the sole remaining representative in its class. All other manufacturers have quit trying to compete with the all-conquering Suzuki in this engine displacement class of sportbikes.

GSX-R600 The soft Version of the GSXR750, and one of the competitors which dominated the market of a sport bike looking with small relative power to the bigger cc families. Comparable to Honda’s CBR600RR, and Kawasaki’s ZX-6.

FA50 Reliable, 50cc two-stroke moped. Used Suzuki’s Pointless Ignition System. Unlike traditional mopeds, the FA50 did not have pedals, and was a kick-start.

All-terrain vehicles (ATVs)

A 2004 Suzuki LT-Z400 with some common and custom modifications done

Utility Sport

  • Suzuki KingQuad 700
  • Suzuki TwinPeaks 700
  • Suzuki Vinson 500
  • Suzuki Eiger 400
  • Suzuki Ozark 250

Sport

  • Suzuki LT 230
  • Suzuki LT 250
  • Suzuki LT-Z250
  • Suzuki LT-Z400
  • Suzuki LT-R450 (race ready)
  • Suzuki Escudo Pikes Peak version (rally/road)
  • Suzuki Cultus Pikes Peak version (rally/road)

Suzuki vehicles in popular culture

Suzuki motorcycles and vehicles have had their share of exposure in Japanese media, notably in tokusatsu productions. Suzuki was a supplier to TOEI for vehicles and motorcycles in the 1980s. Perhaps the most notable is in Shaider, where its main character drove a SJ Samurai, as well as a modified motorcycle called the Blue Hawk.

Goofy drives what looks like an early 90s Suzuki Samurai/Geo Tracker in the cartoon goof troop.

References

  1.  http://www.earthtimes.org/articles/show/171202.html
  2.  http://oica.net/wp-content/uploads/2007/07/suzuki.pdf
  3.  http://www.marutisuzuki.com/ab/aboutus.asp?ch=1&ct=1&sc=6
  4.  http://www.marutisuzuki.com/ab/aboutus.asp?ch=1&ct=1&sc=8
  5.  Official website of Maruti Exports Limited. [1]
  6.  “Even Suzuki Registers A May Sales Increase”. Retrieved on 2008-07-18.
  7.  http://www.paksuzuki.com.pk/

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Suzuki Cultus

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Suzuki Cultus

The Suzuki Cultus is a supermini first presented at the 25th Tokyo Motor Show, formally introduced to the Japanese domestic market in 1983 and ultimately manufactured in seven countries across three generations and marketed worldwide under more than a dozen nameplates — prominently as the Geo Metro and Suzuki Swift.

Offered across its lifespan in four body-style variations with engines from the Suzuki G engine family, the Cultus remains in production both in China and Pakistan.

The name Cultus derives from the Latin cultus, meaning “care” or “adoration.”

Suzuki Cultus
Suzuki Swift 4door red vl.jpg
ManufacturerFlag of Japan Suzuki Motor Corporation
Production1983–present
Successor(Japan)
ClassSupermini
Subcompact
B-segment
Manual

Generations

Generation I

The first generation of the Cultus was designed and developed by Suzuki for the Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) and introduced as the 1983 SA310, the name shortly thereafter changed to Cultus. After GM and Suzuki formed an alliance in 1981,[1] GM imported the Cultus as a captive import, introducing it to the North American market as the 1985 Chevrolet/Geo Sprint.

Generation I
Chevrolet/Geo Sprint Turbo
Also calledSuzuki SA-310/SA-413

Suzuki Cultus



Production1983–1988
AssemblyFlag of Japan Hamamatsu, Japan
Flag of Colombia Bogotá, Colombia
Body style(s)3-door hatchback
5-door hatchback
LayoutFF layout
Wheelbase3-Door: 2245 mm (88.4 in)
5-Door: 2345 mm (92.3 in)
Length3-Door: 3585 mm (141.1 in)
Export: 3670 mm (144.5 in)
5-Door: 3685 mm (145.1 in)
Export: 3770 mm (148.4 in)
Width1530 mm (60.2 in)
Export: 1545 mm (60.8 in)
Height1350 mm (53.1 in)
Curb weight620 kg (1367 lb)-750 kg (1653 lb)

Suzuki Cultus Generation I:

Nameplate Market Body 1983-1988 Suzuki Cultus Japan 3/5 a. 1985-1988 Suzuki Forsa Canada 3/5 b. 1985-1988 N. America 3/5 c. 1987-2004 Colombia 5 d. 1985-1988 Canada 3/5

3= 3-dr hatchback
5= 5-dr hatchback
a. Initially marketed as the SA-310
b. Also Hawaii, Guam, N. Marianas and test marketing USA 48 states.
c. Canada’s “Chevrolet” Sprint model ran through 1991
d. Manufactured at GM Colmotores, Bogotá, Colombia

Generation II

The second generation, introduced in 1989, had been designed at GM’s Technical Center in Warren, Michigan, and was designated the GM M platform. Equipped with engines and drivetrains developed by Suzuki, The second generation offered new styling and four wheel independent strut suspension.

The first European Generation II model was a “Suzuki Swift” manufactured in September 1992 in Esztergom, Hungary. Updates in 1996 followed, and model year 2000 modifications included a version fitted with a Suzuki 4 wheel drive system and badged as the Subaru Justy. The last modifications were made on the European Gen II from model year 2002 but only for the Hungarian market. The production of the 3-dr models ended in September 2002. In the same year, in December, the 4dr sedan version was also discontinued. The last variation was a 5dr version in March 2003.

Generation II of the Cultus remains in production today in China and Pakistan.

Generation I
Chevrolet/Geo Sprint Turbo
Also calledSuzuki SA-310/SA-413

Suzuki Cultus



Production1983–1988
AssemblyFlag of Japan Hamamatsu, Japan
Flag of Colombia Bogotá, Colombia
Body style(s)3-door hatchback
5-door hatchback
LayoutFF layout
Wheelbase3-Door: 2245 mm (88.4 in)
5-Door: 2345 mm (92.3 in)
Length3-Door: 3585 mm (141.1 in)
Export: 3670 mm (144.5 in)
5-Door: 3685 mm (145.1 in)
Export: 3770 mm (148.4 in)
Width1530 mm (60.2 in)
Export: 1545 mm (60.8 in)
Height1350 mm (53.1 in)
Curb weight620 kg (1367 lb)-750 kg (1653 lb)

Suzuki Cultus Generation II, GM M platform:

Nameplate Market Body
1989-1994 Suzuki Swift N. America 3/4
1985-2004 Suzuki Swift Europe 5 a.
1991-2004 Chevrolet Swift Colombia 3/4 b.
1989-1994 Canada all
1989-1994 Geo Metro N. America 2/3/5 c.
1988–1994 Holden Barina Australia 3/5 d.
1990–1994 Maruti Suzuki 1000 India 4
1995–2007 Maruti Suzuki Esteem India 4
1995–2003 Subaru Justy Europe 3/5 e.
19– 2008 Suzuki Cultus Pakistan 5 f.
19– 2007 Chang’an Suzuki Lingyang China 4

2= 2-dr convertible
3= 3-dr hatchback
4= 4-dr sedan
5= 5-dr hatchback

un = unknown
a. Manufactured at Magyar Suzuki
b. Imported to Colombia
c. Geo branded models in US after 1989, in Canada after 1992
d. MF, MH: only generations of ‘Cultus-derived’ Barina
e. Justy JMA/MS, manufactured at Magyar Suzuki
f. Manufactured at Paksuzuki

Safety
US Generation II models received the following NHTSA’s New Car Assessment Program ratings:

  • Front Impact, Driver:  Safety Concern: High likelihood of thigh injury
  • Front Impact, Passenger: 

Generation III

Generation III
Chevrolet Metro sedan
Also calledGeo Metro (1995-97)
Chevrolet Metro (1998-2001)
Pontiac Firefly
Suzuki Swift
Production1995–2000
AssemblyFlag of CanadaIngersoll, Ontario, Canada
Body style(s)3-door hatchback
4-door sedan
LayoutFF layout
PlatformM platform
Engine(s)1.0L 55 hp (41 kW) I3
1.3L 70 hp (52 kW) I4
1.3L 79 hp (59 kW) I4
Transmission(s)5-speed manual
3-speed automatic
Wheelbase93.1 in (2365 mm)
Length149.4 in (3795 mm) (Hatchback)
164.0 in (4166 mm) (Sedan)
Width62.6 in (1590 mm)
Height54.7 in (1389 mm) (Hatchback)
55.4 in (1407 mm) (Sedan)
Fuel capacity10.6 US gal (40.1 L; 8.8 imp gal)

The third generation of the Cultus was introduced in 1995 as a 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedan — using an adaptation of the longer wheelbase platform from Generation II for both body configurations. Also designed at GM’s Technical Center and built on the GM M platform with drivetrains developed by Suzuki, Generation III models were marketed only in North America, carrying the nameplates Geo Metro (later re-branded the Chevrolet Metro), Pontiac Firefly and Suzuki Swift — and sourced only from CAMI Automotive. Production ended after model year 2001.

Comparison of Generation III/II 3-door hatchback interior dimensions:

Gen III Gen II
Front Headroom (in.) 39.10 37.80
Rear Headroom (in.) 36.00 36.50
Front Legroom (in.) 42.50 42.50
Rear Legroom (in.) 32.80 29.8

The third generation featured two engines, a revised 1.3L 4-cylinder engine (with hydraulic lifters and lash adjusters, and a 30,000-mile service interval[2]) and a 1.0L 3-cylinder engine. Suzuki Swifts were available with only the revised 4-cylinder. The hatchback body configuration featured a three-inch lower liftover height compared to the Generation II model,[2] more in keeping with the liftover height of the Generation I models. Safety equipment included optional anti-lock brakes, safety cage construction with deformable front and rear crush zones and five structural crossbars engineered to spread side impact loads throughout the car’s structure,[2] steel side impact door safety beams,[3] and daytime running lights (the Generation III Metro was the first GM car to offer DRLs), and dual frontal airbags. A new, one-piece instrument panel was mounted to one of the five crossmembers (internally called the “bazooka bar”) with a new, full seal filling the gap between the instrument panel and the dash.[2] The sedan and coupe chassis were 20% and 5% stiffer respectively than the previous generation 5-door and coupe Metros,[2] and at the time of its introduction, the Metro was the smallest car in the world to meet the impending 1997 North American side impact standards.[2] The revised sedan was also introduced in the United States, replacing the 5-door hatchback. The Generation III featured a coefficient of drag of .32.[3]

At the time of the Generation III introduction, 41% of Metro buyers are first-car buyers, 62% of the buyers were female, and the median age of a Metro buyer was 37.[2]

Suzuki Cultus Generation III, GM M platform:

Nameplate Market Body
1995-2001 Suzuki Swift N. America 3
1995-2001 Pontiac Firefly Canada 3/4
1995-1997 Geo Metro N. America 3/4
1998-2001 Chevrolet Metro USA 3/4

3= 3-dr hatchback
4= 4-dr sedan

Safety

US Generation III models received the following NHTSA’s New Car Assessment Program ratings:

  • Front Impact, Driver: 
  • Front Impact, Passenger: 

Test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 4 = 10-20%

Awards

The American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE) named the Generation III Chevrolet Metro and Suzuki Swift as the top two gasoline-fueled vehicles within their Top 12 Greenest Vehicles in 1998 and 1999. ACEEE assigns a Green Score to each vehicle make and model sold in the US, based on the vehicles’ exhaust emissions, fuel economy and other specifications.

Generation IV(non-Cultus)

The fourth generation, marketed solely as the Suzuki Swift, differs substantially from the previous Cultus-based generations. Generation IV debuted at the Paris Auto Salon in September 2004 to compete in the European B segment with the Peugeot 206, Opel Corsa and the Fiat Punto. This generation of the Swift marked a significant departure with the previous Cultus-based models, with Suzuki re-designing the vehicle from an entry level subcompact to a “sporty” subcompact.

Nameplate Market Body
2004-present Suzuki Swift Japan, Europe, Oceana 3/5

Marketing: Japan

The Suzuki Cultus developed through Generation II in Japan, and was superseded by the Cultus Crescent — a larger offspring of the Cultus.

Cultus

The first Cultus was introduced to the JDM initially under the nameplate SA-310 in 1983 as either a 3 or 5-door hatchback with two possible petrol engines from the G family: a three cylinder powerplant with 993 cc, and a four cylinder version with 1324 cc. Power ranged from 60 PS JIS (44 kW) to 75 PS (55 kW). Manual and automatic transmissions were available. A turbocharged version of the smaller engine was later introduced, with power raised to 80 PS (59 kW), and 165/70 HR12 tyres.

The Cultus was slightly restyled in 1986, adopting a new front end, with redesigned grille, headlights and bumper. Engine power was slightly detuned on the 1.0 L and 1.3 L model, and the Cultus Turbo was joined by a more powerful sports version, the Cultus GTi. This featured a new Twin Cam 16v variant of the 1.3 L engine, with 1298 cc, thanks to a shorter stroke (75.5 mm, down from the previous 77 mm), fuel injection and 97 PS (71 kW). Production of the Cultus’ first generation stopped in 1988.

The Generation II was introduced in 1988 with similar dimensions and but redesigned to make better use of the cargo area and cabin space. Like its predecessor, the new Cultus was available as a 3- or 5-door hatchback, and was powered by G-series engines from 1.0 L to 1.3 L. However, this last one had adopted an SOHC 16-valve arrangement, with standard fuel injection. Power was 58 PS (43 kW) and 82 PS (60 kW) arrangement. For the first time, 4WD was optional on the larger engine.

The Cultus GTi was now much more powerful, reaching 115 PS JIS (85 kW) with updated version of the previous GTi engine: the G13B engine that had higher compression pistons (11.5:1 compression ratio), tubular exhaust headers, a tubular intake manifold, larger camshafts and a reprogrammed ECU. Some models of the Cultus GTi were also available with all-wheel drive.

More well outfitted versions were the Cultus Ellesse (which included automatic air conditioning, central locking, power windows and adjustable steering wheel) and the Esteem, a sedan version. The Esteem featured a larger 1.5 L engine, capable of reaching 91 PS (67 kW), and it was available with optional 4WD. The equipment was the same as the Cultus Ellesse.

In 1992, Suzuki introduced a two-seat convertible, based on the hatchback body — and dropped shortly thereafter.

Japanese Domestic Market Internal Designations

  • 1983~1988 AA41S
  • 1986~1988 A43S,AB43S,AA53S,AB53S,AA33S,AB33S,AA43V
  • 1988~1998 AA34S,AA44S,AB34S,AB44S
  • 1992~1993 AK34S, Cultus Convertible

Cultus Crescent

See also: Suzuki Esteem

The Suzuki Cultus and Cultus Crescent were two distinct but related models sold in Japan by Suzuki — with the Cultus Crescent eventually superseding the Cultus.

The Cultus Crescent was introduced in the Japanese market in 1995 sharing the same platform and many components from the Cultus — with a chassis stretched by 10 cm (4 in) and completely different styling.

The Cultus Crescent was available initially in two body variants, a 3-door hatchback and a 4-door saloon. Suzuki continued to use the SOHC 16-valve G-family engines, in 1.3 L and 1.5 L form, with power ranging from 85 PS (63 kW) to 97 PS (71 kW). The larger engine was the only one available in the sedan. In 1996, with the introduction of the Cultus Crescent Wagon, Suzuki’s first station wagon, the 1.5 L remained base model, and 4WD was offered with the 1.6 L variant, basically the same engine as found in the Suzuki Escudo, with power raised to 115 PS (85 kW). A sports variant, dubbed GT, used Mazda’s 1840 cc BP engine, with 135 PS (99 kW).

In 1998, the base Cultus/Swift was no longer marketed in Japan, and Suzuki dropped the “Crescent” name. The larger model was now simply called Cultus, and received new front end styling. The 1.6 L 4WD variant was extended to the rest of the lineup, but not the 1.8 L engine, which was only available in the other bodies other than the wagon in export markets. The Cultus remained in production in Japan until 2002, after a year of overlapping with its replacement, the larger and entirely new Aerio.

Production of the Cultus began in other countries and was available in developing markets such as India as the Maruti Suzuki Baleno til production ceased in 2007 to make way for the Suzuki SX4. Elsewhere internationally, the larger Cultus Crescent was marketed as the Suzuki Baleno and Esteem.See also: Suzuki History of Cultus

Marketing: Global

The Cultus grouping of vehicles has been marketed in Asia, North America, South America, Australia, and Europe. Vehicles from the Cultus family were never formally markted in New Zealand but were imported and sold on the secondary market.

Suzuki Forsa

The Suzuki Forsa was a version of the Generation I Suzuki Cultus — marketed in Ecuador, Chile, Canada and the USA (minimally) from 1985 to 1988 — with Suzuki offering the supermini with either a carbureted 1.0 L inline-3 cylinder or fuel injected 1.0 L inline 3 cylinder turbocharged engine. The Forsa was virtually identical to the vehicles marketed in North America as the Chevrolet Sprint and the Pontiac Firefly.

Suzuki did not initially market the Forsa on the US mainland, but rather only in Hawaii, Guam and the Northern Marianas. An undetermined number of Forsa models were imported to the U.S. mainland to test the commercial viability of a supermini in the US.

As a record of US marketing of the Forsa, listings at the EPA Fuel Mileage Site carry the 1985 model as the Suzuki SA310 (the original JDM name for the Cultus, Forsa and Swift), no listing for 1986 — and both the Forsa and Forsa Turbo for 1987 and 1988. Suzuki then changed the name from Forsa to Swift with 1989 North American sales.

Suzuki Swift (North America)

Cars of three distinct derivations have carried the Swift nameplate:

  • Generations I, II, III: a supermini that began as an export nameplate of the Japanese domestic market Suzuki Cultus. (This article)
  • Generation IV: the current JDM, Europe and Oceana generation, a significant departure from the previous models, marketed solely under the nameplate “Swift”. See: Suzuki Swift Generation IV
  • Canadian Swift+: the current Canada-only generation marketed under the Swift+ nameplate — a sibling of the Daewoo Kalos family. See: Daewoo Kalos

Generation I Swift Following 1985-1988 sales of the Forsa, Suzuki changed the nameplate to Suzuki Swift. The Swift was available as a GTi and GLX hatchback with a 4-door sedan following in 1990 — imported from Japan. The Swift nameplate evolved through the three Cultus generations. After production of the North American Metro, Swift and Firefly ended, Suzuki developed the Generation IV Swift, a distinctly new model, currently for Japan, Europe and Oceana.

The Swift featured a 993 cc inline three cylinder engine producing 50 hp (37 kW). The G10 engine weighed 63 kg (139 lb) and the suspension derived from the Suzuki Alto. Other engine configurations included a carbureted or fuel injected turbocharged 1.0 litre, 3 cylinder (G10) engine and a carbureted or fuel injected 1.3 litre G13. Trim levels included the 1.0 GA and the 1.0 GL. The GA model included plastic wheelcovers, 5-speed gearbox and cloth trim. The GL model included more equipment such as a 5-speed gearbox, alloy wheels, a sunroof, and air conditioning in some markets.

With Generation I, Suzuki marketed the Swift GTi with the G13B engine — a DOHC 16 valve, 1.3 L, in-line 4-cylinder engine with an aluminum block and cylinder head, forged steel crankshaft and connecting rods, and cast aluminum high compression pistons (10:1 compression ratio). Its power output is 101 hp (70 kW). The Generation I Swift GTi was available in European and Asia-Pacific markets.

Generation II Swift The Generation II (AA44S series) was available with a 1.0 liter 3-cylinder with a power output of 53 hp (39 kW), 1.3 liter 4-cylinder, and 1.6 liter 4-cylinder engines. The higher powered Swift GTi had an improved G13B engine which featured hollow camshafts, stronger web casting on the engine block, a better flowing intake manifold (the prior generation intake manifold had its shape compromised to fit into the engine bay), and its ECU now had electronic control over ignition timing. It now put out 100 hp (74 kW) of power. The Swift GTi also featured all wheel disc brakes.

The Generation II Swift was first marketed in North America in two trim levels in 1989; 3-door GTi and 5-door GLX. The GTi name was changed to GT in 1990 because of an out-of-court settlement with Volkswagen of America over their similarly named GTI. The GTi/GT had a 1.3 liter, twin cam 100 hp (70 kW) 16-valve 4-cylinder engine while the GLX had a single cam 8-valve version of the same engine. The 1.0 liter 3-cylinder was never available in North America in the Swift except for Canada where it was sold from 1992 to 1994. In 1990, the GLX was dropped; an inexpensive GA 3-door was added as were a GA, GL and GS 4-door sedan.

The Generation II received a modest restyle and other production changes in 1992, including changes to the bumpers, tail lights and interior. GT/GTi versions were equipped with larger sway-bars, and the camshafts were now solid. Power output remained the same at 100 hp (70 kW). Production for the North American market ended in 1994.

  • Suzuki Forsa, Gen I
  • Suzuki Swift, Gen II

Generation III Swift From 1995 onward, the North American-exclusive Suzuki Swift was built at CAMI Automotive, receiving all the modifications of its Pontiac and Geo/Chevrolet siblings — only in the 3-dr body style, however.For Generation IV, see Suzuki SwiftFor the current Canadian Suzuki Swift+, see Daewoo Kalos

Chevrolet Sprint

The Chevrolet Sprint was sold in the United States and Canada, with GM continuing to market the Chevette until 1987 alongside the Sprint. In the 1988 model year, the naturally-aspirated hatchback was named the Chevrolet Sprint Metro.

The “Sprint” and “Sprint Metro” differed in their engines, though both were computer controlled carb systems. From 1985 to 1988, the carbureted 1.0 L 3-cylinder engine used a hemispherical head design. Later, fuel injection required the cylinder head for 1989 be redesigned to add the additional cooling required, reducing gas mileage.

The Sprint was originally offered in parts of the western US for the 1985 model year; subsequently Chevrolet marketed the Sprint across North America. All models were initially 3-dr hatchbacks. Starting in 1986, a five-door hatchback version was offered, called the Sprint Plus. That year, another model called the Sprint ER was offered that included a few extra features, such as an “upshift” light to indicate the ideal speed to shift to the next highest gear on manual transmission models. Although air conditioning was offered in all years, the three-speed automatic transmission wasn’t offered until 1986. All models featured front-wheel drive and 12-inch tires.

Turbocharged versions of the 1.0 L 3-cylinder engine were available in the Turbo Sprint from 1987 to 1990 (1987-1988 in U.S.). Colors were limited to red, white and blue for the Turbo Sprint. The corresponding Suzuki was not turbocharged; instead, it used a 1.3 L 4-cylinder engine.

Colombia
The name “Chevette Sprint” was considered before calling the Colombia model (Generation I) the “Chevrolet Sprint” — to distinguish it from the Opel knock down kits imported to Brazil.[7] When presented on 7 October 1986, the Sprint caused a sensation.[7] Slight modifications were made in 1987, including increasing the wheel sizes from 12″ to 13″ and the Sprint remained in production virtually unchanged til 2004 — with a production of 70,848.[7] Import models of Generation II models were imported from 1991 til 2004 and called the Chevrolet Swift.[7]

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Suzuki Sidekick

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Suzuki Sidekick
Suzuki Escudo
Automotive industry
CAMI Automotive
Also calledSuzuki Sidekick
Suzuki Vitara
Geo/Chevrolet Tracker
Mazda Proceed Levante
Production1989–2003
AssemblyHamamatsu, Japan
Ingersoll, Ontario, Canada
Linares, Jaén, Andalusia, Spain
Kosai, Shizuoka, Japan
Predecessor
Successor(Sidekick)
Chevrolet Equinox (Tracker)
Pontiac Aztek (Sunrunner)
Car classificationMini SUV
Car body style2-door SUV
2-door Convertible
4-door SUV
Automobile layoutFront-engine design, Rear-wheel drive / Four-wheel drive

The Suzuki Escudo (known as Sidekick in North America and Vitara in Europe, the Philippines and Australia, as well as North America after 1999) was a small Off-road vehicle produced from 1989-2004. The North America version was produced as a joint venture between Suzuki and General Motors known as CAMI Automotive. The vehicle was a follow-up to the popular Suzuki SJ413 and Samurai. Also, this vehicle, while sold in North America, was designed to slot above the Samurai. A larger version is also made, known as the Suzuki Grand Escudo (known as Grand Vitara XL-7 in other markets).

General Motors rebadges

The Sidekick was sold in various badges such as the Geo Tracker (Chevrolet Tracker after 1998) in the United States, and as the GMC Tracker, Chevrolet Tracker, Asüna Sunrunner and Pontiac Sunrunner in Canada. It was also sold as the Santana 300 and Santana 350 in Spain. In the Japan home market, it was variously sold also with Mazda badge. The 1st Generation Escudo was sold in Mexico as the Chevrolet Vitara. The 2nd Generation is currently sold in Mexico and Brazil as the Chevrolet Tracker, as the Chevrolet Grand Vitara in other Central and South American countries, while in Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay and Chile is sold as the Suzuki Grand Vitara.

First generation (1989-1998)

First generation
Also calledSuzuki Vitara
Suzuki Sidekick
Geo/Chevrolet Tracker
GMC Tracker
Asuna/Pontiac Sunrunner
Chevrolet Vitara/Grand Vitara
Mazda Proceed Levante
Production1989-1998
Internal combustion engine1.8L 120 hp (89 kW) Straight-4
1.3L 64 hp (48 kW) Straight-4
1.6L 80 hp (60 kW) Straight-4
1.6L 95 hp (71 kW) Straight-4
Transmission (mechanics)3-speed Automatic transmission
4-speed Automatic transmission
5-speed Manual transmission
Wheelbase2-Door: 86.6 in (2200 mm)
4-Door: 97.6 in (2479 mm)
Length2-Door: 143.7 in (3650 mm) (1996-98)
142.5 in (3620 mm) (1989-1995)
4-Door: 158.7 in (4031 mm)
4-Door Sport: 162.4 in (4125 mm)
Width2-Door: 65.2 in (1656 mm) (1996-98)
64.2 in (1631 mm) (1989-1995)
4-Door: 64.4 in (1636 mm)
4-Door Sport: 66.7 in (1694 mm)
Height2-Door: 64.3 in (1633 mm) (2WD, 1992-93 & 1996-98)
65.6 in (1666 mm) (1989-1991)
65.1 in (1654 mm) (4WD, 1992-93 & 1996-98)
64.4 in (1636 mm) (2WD 1994-95)
65.2 in (1656 mm) (4WD 1994-95)
4-Door: 65.7 in (1669 mm) (2WD)
66.5 in (1689 mm) (4WD)
66.3 in (1684 mm) (Sport)
Related
Suzuki LJ80

The original 1989 North America Sidekick was available as a 2-door Convertible or Hardtop, in 1.3 liter JA and more powerful 4-wheel-drive JX & JLX trims. An 80 hp (60 kW) 1.6 liter, 8-valve, 4-cylinder engine was available on the JX & JLX. 1990 brought the deletion of the upscale JLX version. In 1991, a 4-door Sidekick with a lengthened Wheelbase was introduced and the following year a 95 hp (71 kW), 1.6 liter, 16-valve engine was introduced. 1991 also brought the introduction of rear Antilock brakes. The original Sidekick was updated in 1996 with a new Sport version available with 120 hp (89 kW), 1.8 liter 16-valve 4-cylinder engine. The Sport also had dual Airbag, 2-tone paint and 16″ Alloy wheels.

In 1996, Suzuki introduced the Suzuki X-90 which was mechanically identical to the Sidekick but had a much rounder body, a trunk, and removable T-bar roof. The Suzuki X-90 disappeared from Suzuki’s lineup after the 1998 model year. The Sport variant was replaced by the Grand Vitara in 1999.

In Spain, production went on at Suzuki’s partner Santana Motors with the Vitara nameplate. After a facelift in 2005 the name was changed to Santana 300/350.

In Australia, there were two models available. The Vitara JX and the Vitara JLX. The JLX featured mainly with powered windows. Both versions featured the 1.6 Litre engine. In May 1997, Suzuki introduced the 1995 cc 2.0 Litre 4 Valves/Cylinder Double Overhead Cam engine with both soft top and hardtop 3 door models. This engine was rated at 97 kW (130 hp) @ 6300 rpm. At the same time the 5 door models received the 1998 cc 2.0 litre V6. Engine power rated for the 5 door V6 models was at 100 kW (134 hp) @ 6500 rpm. The 1.6 litre variant for the 3 door models were named the Suzuki Vitara Rebel. All models in Australia were sold as four wheel drives.

The naming scheme, engines and trim options available in Chile, closely follow that of the Australian market. In 1998, there became available models featuring 1.9 litre Turbodiesel engines from Renault, built in Spain by Santana Motors, all of them were 4WD vehicles, but there were no automatic transmissions available. Since 2001, all diesel 1st Gen Vitaras are to be imported from Argentina, built by General Motors in Argentina, featuring 1.9 litre HDI engines from PSA Peugeot Citroen, all of them with 5-speed mechanic transmissions, while automatic transmissions are only available with Japanese built models with gasoline.

Second generation (1999-2003)

Second generation
Also calledSuzuki Grand Vitara
Chevrolet Tracker
Chevrolet Grand Vitara
Mazda Proceed Levante
Production1999-2004
Internal combustion engine1.6L 97 hp (72 kW) Straight-4
2.0L 127 hp (95 kW) Straight-4
Transmission (mechanics)4-speed Automatic transmission
5-speed Manual transmission
Wheelbase2-Door: 86.6 in (2200 mm)
4-Door: 97.6 in (2479 mm)
Length2-Door: 151.6 in (2000-01 JS)
152 in
151.8 in (2000-01 JX)
4-Door: 163 in (4140.2 mm)
Width67.3 in (1709 mm)
Height2-Door: 65.7 in (2000-01 JS)
66.1 in (2000-01 JLS)
66.5 in (2000-01 JX & JLX)
4-Door: 68 in (2000-01 JS & JLS)
68.5 in (2000-01 JX & JLX)
2-Door & 4-Door: 65 in (2002-03 2WD)
65.8 in (2002-03 4WD)
RelatedSuzuki XL-7

The Escudo/Vitara was redesigned in 1999, and the Sidekick name was dropped in North America, using the Vitara name instead. It was a 4-seater which in Europe featured 1.3 L, 1.6 L and 1.8 L Straight-4 Gasoline engine available with Carburator or Electronic fuel injection. 16 valve engines 1.8 Liter and a 2.0 liter V6Diesel engine were also available in Europe. The Vitara was available with 4- and 5-speed Manual transmission, as well as Automatic transmission, and in hardtop 2- or 4-door models or soft-top 2-door models:

In America, the regular Vitara (not grand vitara) was available with a 1.6 and 2.0 four cylinder, with the vast majority of 1.6 liter motors being found in the two door variants and the 2.0 in the four door versions. A 2.5 liter v6 was also available, which became standard in 2004. All were available with manual transmissions or four wheel drive, via a manual transfer case. Vitara was not discontinued in 2003; production continued in the existing body style until 2005 in the existing body style and continues in an updated body style to the present under the Grand Vitara name. The Vitara was the last compact SUV sold in the US to retain a body on frame construction until 2006 when Suzuki phased it out for the newer unibody Grand Vitara.

The four Chevy tracker shared the platform with the vitara from 1999-2004 and though the two are cosmetically nearly identical, there are many differences in the wiring, color combinations, wheels and tires, switchgear, and other technical details. The two door trackers also shared the two door vitara body style for some years.

Competition special

Suzuki used a specially built spaceframe racing car for Hillclimb races with a bodyshell to resemble the Escudo. This race car was specially tuned with 987 Horsepower and Four wheel drive, sporting huge Aerodynamic aids. It was entered by Suzuki in a number of Japanese events in the late-1990s, where it beat most of the competition. [1]

The car regularly takes part in the Pikes Peak International Hillclimb, driven by Nobuhiro Tajima and is identifiable by its large rear wing and red paintjob. The car is referred to as the Pikes Peak Edition in the Gran Turismo videogames, although that name has never been used by Suzuki.

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Suzuki Escudo

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Suzuki Escudo

The Suzuki Escudo (known as Sidekick in North America and Vitara in Europe, the Philippines and Australia, as well as North America after 1999) was a small Off-road vehicle produced from 1989-2004. The North America version was produced as a joint venture between Suzuki and General Motors known as CAMI Automotive. The vehicle was a follow-up to the popular Suzuki SJ413 and Samurai. Also, this vehicle, while sold in North America, was designed to slot above the Samurai. A larger version is also made, known as the Suzuki Grand Escudo (known as Grand Vitara XL-7 in other markets).

General Motors rebadges

The Sidekick was sold in various badges such as the Geo Tracker (Chevrolet Tracker after 1998) in the United States, and as the GMC Tracker, Chevrolet Tracker, Asüna Sunrunner and Pontiac Sunrunner in Canada. It was also sold as the Santana 300 and Santana 350 in Spain. In the Japan home market, it was variously sold also with Mazda badge. The 1st Generation Escudo was sold in Mexico as the Chevrolet Vitara. The 2nd Generation is currently sold in Mexico and Brazil as the Chevrolet Tracker, as the Chevrolet Grand Vitara in other Central and South American countries, while in Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay and Chile is sold as the Suzuki Grand Vitara.

First generation (1989-1998)

The original 1989 North America Sidekick was available as a 2-door Convertible or Hardtop, in 1.3 liter JA and more powerful 4-wheel-drive JX & JLX trims. An 80 hp (60 kW) 1.6 liter, 8-valve, 4-cylinder engine was available on the JX & JLX. 1990 brought the deletion of the upscale JLX version. In 1991, a 4-door Sidekick with a lengthened Wheelbase was introduced and the following year a 95 hp (71 kW), 1.6 liter, 16-valve engine was introduced. 1991 also brought the introduction of rear Antilock brakes. The original Sidekick was updated in 1996 with a new Sport version available with 120 hp (89 kW), 1.8 liter 16-valve 4-cylinder engine. The Sport also had dual Airbag, 2-tone paint and 16″ Alloy wheels.

In 1996, Suzuki introduced the Suzuki X-90 which was mechanically identical to the Sidekick but had a much rounder body, a trunk, and removable T-bar roof. The Suzuki X-90 disappeared from Suzuki’s lineup after the 1998 model year. The Sport variant was replaced by the Grand Vitara in 1999.

In Spain, production went on at Suzuki’s partner Santana Motors with the Vitara nameplate. After a facelift in 2005 the name was changed to Santana 300/350.

In Australia, there were two models available. The Vitara JX and the Vitara JLX. The JLX featured mainly with powered windows. Both versions featured the 1.6 Litre engine. In May 1997, Suzuki introduced the 1995 cc 2.0 Litre 4 Valves/Cylinder Double Overhead Cam engine with both soft top and hardtop 3 door models. This engine was rated at 97 kW (130 hp) @ 6300 rpm. At the same time the 5 door models received the 1998 cc 2.0 litre V6. Engine power rated for the 5 door V6 models was at 100 kW (134 hp) @ 6500 rpm. The 1.6 litre variant for the 3 door models were named the Suzuki Vitara Rebel. All models in Australia were sold as four wheel drives.

The naming scheme, engines and trim options available in Chile, closely follow that of the Australian market. In 1998, there became available models featuring 1.9 litre Turbodiesel engines from Renault, built in Spain by Santana Motors, all of them were 4WD vehicles, but there were no automatic transmissions available. Since 2001, all diesel 1st Gen Vitaras are to be imported from Argentina, built by General Motors in Argentina, featuring 1.9 litre HDI engines from PSA Peugeot Citroen, all of them with 5-speed mechanic transmissions, while automatic transmissions are only available with Japanese built models with gasoline engines.

Second generation (1999-2003)

The Escudo/Vitara was redesigned in 1999, and the Sidekick name was dropped in North America, using the Vitara name instead. It was a 4-seater which in Europe featured 1.3 L, 1.6 L and 1.8 L Straight-4 Gasoline engine available with Carburator or Electronic fuel injection. 16 valve engines 1.8 Liter and a 2.0 liter V6Diesel engine were also available in Europe. The Vitara was available with 4- and 5-speed Manual transmission, as well as Automatic transmission, and in hardtop 2- or 4-door models or soft-top 2-door models:

In America, the regular Vitara (not grand vitara) was available with a 1.6 and 2.0 four cylinder, with the vast majority of 1.6 liter motors being found in the two door variants and the 2.0 in the four door versions. A 2.5 liter v6 was also available, which became standard in 2004. All were available with manual transmissions or four wheel drive, via a manual transfer case. Vitara was not discontinued in 2003; production continued in the existing body style until 2005 in the existing body style and continues in an updated body style to the present under the Grand Vitara name. The Vitara was the last compact SUV sold in the US to retain a body on frame construction until 2006 when Suzuki phased it out for the newer unibody Grand Vitara.

The four Chevy tracker shared the platform with the vitara from 1999-2004 and though the two are cosmetically nearly identical, there are many differences in the wiring, color combinations, wheels and tires, switchgear, and other technical details. The two door trackers also shared the two door vitara body style for some years.

Competition special

Suzuki used a specially built spaceframe racing car for Hillclimb races with a bodyshell to resemble the Escudo. This race car was specially tuned with 987 Horsepower and Four wheel drive, sporting huge Aerodynamic aids. It was entered by Suzuki in a number of Japanese events in the late-1990s, where it beat most of the competition. [1]

The car regularly takes part in the Pikes Peak International Hillclimb, driven by Nobuhiro Tajima and is identifiable by its large rear wing and red paintjob. The car is referred to as the Pikes Peak Edition in the Gran Turismo videogames, although that name has never been used by Suzuki.

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