AT THIS year’s Paris Motor Show, Suzuki launched the Concept-S - an innovative concept for Suzuki’s all-new super mini specifically designed for the European market.

Currently powered by a 1.6-litre high performance engine and with a six-speed sequential gearbox and permanent four wheel drive, Concept-S embodies much of the technology acquired through Suzuki’s challenge in the Junior World Rally Championship and incorporates Suzuki’s motorcycle and automobile technology and design initiatives.

Following further development and evolution, Concept-S is expected to be in production in the latter part of 2004. It will be manufactured at the company’s plant in Hungary, where the current production capacity of 100,000 units will be expanded to 200,000 units by 2004.

Suzuki will introduce diesel engine options for all 4x4 models during 2003.

Grand Vitara three-door diesel will be available in spring, 2003; Grand Vitara XL-7 by mid year and Jimny - including Jimny Soft Top which is manufactured in partnership with Santana SA in Spain - by the year end.