Production Suzuki iM-4 mini SUV to have a different look - Report

18/03/2015 - 14:58 Suzuki iM-4, Suzuki Anjan Ravi

Likely to launch next year in Europe.

Suzuki debuted the iK-2 and iM-4 concepts at the Geneva Motor Show this month, promising that both models will make it to production. According to a report, the iM-4's production version would launch in Europe next year, and would replace the veteran model Jimny, while Suzuki asked us to expect the iK-2 in showrooms next year.

Suzuki iM-4 concept front view at 2015 Geneva Motor Show — According to the designer, the iM-4 concept appeals to the older and younger generations.

Speaking to responsejp.com, Suzuki's chief designer, Kazufumi Uchiyama, hinted that the production version of the iM-4 mini SUV will be a different design. With an overall length of 3,693 mm, the iM-4 is about 300 mm longer than the Hustler, a kei-car (small car) in the Japanese market. With this in mind, Uchiyama says that the positioning of the iM-4 based production car will be above the Hustler, but it won't be classified as a kei-car.

Based on a new generation platform, the iM-4 concept was powered by a 1.2-liter DualJet engine but featured a mild hybrid technology, with 4WD. Suzuki refers to the iM-4 as SHVS (Smart Hybrid Vehicle by Suzuki). The manufacturer also claimed better rigidity and lighter weight thanks to the new platform.

Suzuki iM-4 concept rear three quarter view at 2015 Geneva Motor Show — The iM-4 and iK-2 were announced with a new and lightweight chassis.

Also read: Suzuki Alto Turbo RS with AMT leaked in Japan

Suzuki's Indian operations, Maruti Suzuki, is working on a different sub-4 meter SUV, codenamed 'YBA'. The YBA will launch in India early next year to rival the Ford EcoSport.

[Source - ResponseJp]