New Suzuki SUV to be showcased at Shanghai Auto Show 2017 - Report

Likely to be a pre-production concept of the next gen Suzuki Jimny.

Changan Suzuki executives have divulged to the local media that a new Suzuki SUV will be showcased at the Shanghai Auto Show in April 2017. Although not confirmed by Changan-Suzuki, the new SUV could be the pre-production concept of the next gen Suzuki Jimny.

According to previous reports, the next generation Suzuki Jimny will feature a new design that draws inspiration from the Suzuki X-Lander concept. For better ride quality and handling, the next gen Jimny could switch from the ladder-based chassis to a monocoque chassis, although some reports claim that the Jimny will retain the ladder-frame to give it the USP among softroaders in the family.

While the JDM-spec Jimny will get a 0.66-litre turbocharged three-cylinder sourced from the Suzuki Alto Turbo RS, the Jimny for other markets could come with options like the K12B 1.2-litre Dualjet naturally aspirated petrol unit and the 1.0-litre BOOSTERJET turbocharged three-cylinder petrol unit. A 4WD system will continue to be offered.

The next-gen Suzuki Jimny will reportedly be manufactured and exported in India from Suzuki's first wholly owned car plant in the country. Located in Gujarat, the new will serve as the global production hub for next gen Jimny. China being a large market will have it sourced from the local JV's plant.

[Source: PC Auto]