Report: Suzuki Plans to Launch Full Range Of Cars In India

27 April 2008

The Nikkei reports that Suzuki Motor Corp. plans to provide a full lineup of cars in India, with the introduction of two compact models beginning this fall and large global strategic autos with engine displacements of more than 3 liters as early as 2010.

Although low-priced small cars account for nearly 80% of the market there, the major automaker is rushing to expand its offerings to get the jump on rivals ahead of a likely shift in consumer preferences from lower-end models to higher-end cars spurred by economic growth, as well as an expected trend toward greener cars with the eventual introduction there of tougher environmental regulations.

Midsize and large vehicles equipped with engines of up to 3.6 liters are currently under development. Suzuki plans to start selling them first in the U.S. in 2010 and later in India. Three models—a sedan, a sport utility vehicle and a wagon—have been developed so far. Depending on demand trends, the company will decide which cars it will release in India and will ship them from its Sagara plant in Makinohara, Shizuoka prefecture, which is slated to come onstream this autumn.

The two small cars will be produced in India. The 1.0-liter A -Star will be introduced this fall, followed by 1.0- and 1.3-liter Splash subcompacts in 2009.

Automakers sold 1.5 million passenger cars in India in 2007, double the amount five years ago. Suzuki has a 50% market share in the country.