What's the news?
Suzuki has released the first teaser images of a compact SUV concept that is set to make its debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September. Called the iV-4, the car previews a Nissan Juke-rivalling SUV that could arrive as early as 2015.
Exterior
Developed with the theme - "Grab your field" - Suzuki says the concept 'embodies the basic ruggedness of an SUV' and features certain Suzuki SUV hallmarks such as the 'clam-shell shaped bonnet and the front grille divided into five.' Muscular wheelarches, beefy bumpers and a rising waistline should give the iV-4 a look similar to that of the recently unveiled SX4 S-Cross.
Mechanicals
The looks are not the only thing the concept is likely to share with the S-Cross. While not explicitly stated, it seems likely the production version of the Frankfurt concept will use a shortened version of the SX4's platform and carry over its range of 1.6-litre petrol and diesel engines. To truly compete against the Nissan Juke and new entries to the segment like the Renault Captur and Peugeot 2008, smaller more efficient engines will be required so the Swift's 1.3 DDiS diesel is an outside bet too.
Anything else?
Other models appearing with the iV-4 concept in Frankfurt will be the Suzuki Alto, Splash, Swift, Swift Sport, SX4, SX4 S-Cross, Jimny, Grand Vitara and Kizashi.
Paul Healy - 30 Jul 2013