Volkswagen Pondering Suzuki SX4-Based Model

Since Suzuki and Volkswagen are now trying to take advantage of each other's goodies, the latter is apparently looking into ways to develop a new crossover model to be based on the Japanese SX4. The main reason behind such a project is actually Volkswagen's intention to fill the gap between the Tiguan and the rest of compact models, so developing an SX4-based vehicle seems to the easiest and most affordable solution.

According to a report by autozeitung.de, the future model will be offered with either front- or all-wheel drive, just like the original SX4. Engines are rumored to come in the form of a diesel and a gasoline, both with small displacements, especially for increased economy. The diesel unit is believed to be a 1.6-liter with 105 hp, while the gasoline is likely to be a 1.2-liter generating 105 hp.

As always, Suzuki and Volkswagen refused to comment on the subject, so only the time will actually prove if we were right or not.

However, developing a joint product has always been the main task for both automakers, ever since the Germans bought 19.9 percent of Suzuki Motor Corporation. Back in December, it has been rumored that the two partners are working on a cheap model that would be launched on emerging markets at very affordable prices.

"We generally understand what we want from each other, through information exchange up to now," the CEO told reporters at the launch of the new Alto minicar in Tokyo back in December. "Actual, detailed execution -- with our people going there and their people coming here - will be after January," he said.