Suzuki vehicles return to South Africa

Up to 2004, Suzuki vehicles were distributed through the General Motors dealer network in South Africa.

A spokesman for Suzuki Auto South Africa said market and feasibility studies have shown a positive sentiment towards the marque's vehicles.

Suzuki Auto South Africa has been jointly established between Suzuki Motor Corporation who owns 85% of the equity in the newly formed company and Suzuki South Africa (Pty) Ltd, the authorised importer and distributor of Suzuki motorcycles and outboard motors.

Kazuyuki Yamashita has been appointed as managing director for Suzuki Auto South Africa. He has many years of experience in the field of sales and marketing with Suzuki Motor Corporation including several international appointments.

“We are confident that the Suzuki automotive brand will do very well in the South African market and we are looking forward to introducing the Suzuki Swift hatchback, SX4 Crossover Vehicle, Jimny and Grand Vitara range of Sport Utility Vehicles to this market during 2008,” he said.

He said the company also intended expanding the model line-up during 2009 through importing strategic models from international assembly plants.

Dealerships would be established in most of the major cities and centres by mid-year and the buying public could expect to see the first Suzuki vehicles on the showroom floors by June.

He gave no indication of prices, warranties or maintenance plans for the Suzuki vehicles.