Suzuki Swift American Launch Considered

Suzuki is indeed planning to expand its operations in the United States and as far as the Japanese manufacturer is concerned, it is willing to do anything that's possible to reach its goal. The company has already debuted the Kizashi sedan in the United States and it appears it wants to release the Swift model before 2011.

Details are still in the early stage but Suzuki head engineer Takashi Nakayama told Car and Driver that the future Swift is especially designed to comply with US regulations.

Suzuki's popular Swift model is due to arrive in the States in 2011, the same year when the Japanese manufacturer is expected to release the redesigned version of the car which is likely to bring revised exteriors and upgraded engine lineups. The American model will be powered by a 1.6-liter engine developing 123 horsepower.

Earlier reports revealed that Suzuki has more plans for the United States. The company will debut the SX4 which is going to be upgraded in 2010 with a new and more powerful engine plus new transmission systems and a CVT. A restyled version of the Grand Vitara SUV is expected to be launched sometime in 2012 to be sold as model year 2013. A 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine releasing 166 horsepower will join the range in 2010, together with a rear-drive version of the car.

The Kizashi sedan will arrive in North American dealerships before the end of the year and will be priced below $20,000 for the base version. A more equipped version with features from as dual climate control to push-button start, a USB port, 17-inch alloy wheels and eight airbags will cost between $22,000 and $24,000.