According to our sources, Suzuki Motor is thinking to launch large-sized cars by the end of 2010. Suzuki and other automakers are under growing pressure to cut output and scrap capital investment plans as auto demand worldwide, including in India where Suzuki commands around half the market, declines sharply.
The first large-sized car seem to be based on “Kizashi” concept model that would have an engine of up to 3.6 liters, in a bid to attract customers looking to upgrage from smaller vehicles.
In an interview with Reuters in September, Suzuki CEO Osamu Suzuki had flagged the likelihood for the project’s cancellation, saying it made little sense to launch a car into a shrinking segment of the market.
Shares of Suzuki rose 3.4 percent to 1,270 yen, underperforming a 4.3 percent gain in the Tokyo stock exchange’s transport equipment subindex.
I just hope it doesn’t get watered down if it does come to production - it looks gorgeous!