2011 Suzuki Solio Launched in Japan

Suzuki is now ready to introduce a new Solio 2011 model into the Japanese market. The model, which first arrived on the international market back in 1997, has a box-shaped hatch-back body with a clear focus on interior space. The 2011 Solio model promises better fuel economy and more cabin room than its predecessor, and also comes with sliding doors on both sides for easier access to the back seats in crammed car-parks.

The new model will arrive in Suzuki’s Japanese dealers starting January 7th, 2011. It has been developed as a tall, compact wagon that’s user-friendly and offers good fuel efficiency figures. Convenient left- and right-hand rear sliding doors are complemented by a one-touch double-folding rear seat that permits a variety of seat arrangements. The body of the car is compact, measuring just 3,710 mm (146 inches) in length and 1,660 mm (65 inches) in width. The small wagon will only be available with a 1.2-liter gasoline engine producing 91HP, combined with a CVT and front-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive.

Suzuki created the new Solio to be an ideal choice for Japanese customers looking to move upscale from minicars and for those looking to downsize to a more compact model. Suzuki expects the new Solio to join the Swift as a pillar of its sales growth in the compact category. The Japanese carmaker is targeting domestic yearly sales figures of 12,000 Solios.

Shortly after the announcement of the new model, Suzuki and Mitsubishi have released a joint statement revealing that the two companies have mutually agreed on the OEM supply of the vehicle to Mitsubishi. The agreement, which is meant to improve its productivity and lower production and development costs, will see Suzuki deliver 800 Solios per month to Mitsubishi, beginning with spring 2011.