Automotive enthusiasts may find it hard to believe, but Suzuki is almost unheard of among most Americans.Suzuki acknowledges the brand’s anonymity. “We need to better define what we stand for in the U.S.,” states Suzuki marketing director Gene Brown”The vast majority of people don’t even know Suzuki sells cars in the U.S.”
The automaker plans to change the perception with more products (of course). Besides the all-new Grand Vitara SUV, the company has rolled out the XL7, which is its first vehicle specifically designed for the demanding American marketplace. The return of the Swift was originally aimed to enter the sporty car segment but proved to be fortuitous with the rise of gas prices. Finally, Suzuki plans to co-develop its first pickup with automaker Nissan.
Our take? Much of the press’ attention has been focused on the Koreans (Hyundai and Kia). We feel that Suzuki, with its goal to sell 250,000 vehicles by 2010, will soon grab that spotlight.
Additional articles:
Suzuki prices 2007 XL7 and SX4 crossovers
2007 Suzuki XL-7 Photo Gallery: 2006 New York Auto Show
Most Active