Kizashi Killed: Suzuki Reportedly Canceling Large Car Plans

Suzuki Motors will reportedly scrap its plans for a larger, more upscale sedan based on its trio of Kizashi concepts in an effort to cut costs and production. In a report last week by Reuters citing Nikkei, Suzuki will focus on reducing its expenditures rather than investing in the development an all-new car in an ever-shrinking segment already occupied by well-established players. Its larger, more luxurious models were slated to make their debut sometime in 2010, but as global demand dwindles on all segment levels, such a huge project was deemed too much for the Japanese automaker. In concept form, the Kizashi cars utilized highly fuel efficient powertrains ranging from a 2.0L turbo diesel four-cylinder to a more powerful 3.6L V-6 engine The Nikkei also reported that Suzuki officials have opted to delay the 2010 opening of plants in Russia and Thailand as a result of lackluster sales. Source: Reuters