Overview & Reviews

Born in Japan, Suzuki is an automaker that has made a name for itself by crafting vehicles that emphasize value and affordability. Through the years, the brand's lineup has included sedans, wagons and SUVs. However, in late 2012 the company decided to stop selling new vehicles in the United States.

The company was founded by Michio Suzuki in 1909 as Suzuki Loom Works. By the 1950s, its focus had expanded beyond just loom machines to include both motorcycles and automobiles. In 1955, it rolled out the Suzulight, a compact car that proved to be a harbinger of a new era of Japanese lightweight vehicles. The automaker expanded its lineup to include a truck in 1961. Like its sibling, the tiny Suzulight Carry pickup distinguished itself with its featherweight specification. By the end of the decade, the Suzuki lineup had grown to include the Fronte passenger car, the subcompact Fronte 800 and the Carry Van full-cab van.

In 1970, Suzuki rolled out the Jimny, a four-wheel-drive sport-utility vehicle that resembled a playful version of the Jeep CJ-5. The automaker's roster continued to grow throughout this decade, with the addition of the Alto and the subcompact LJ80.

The 1980s saw Suzuki partnering with General Motors when GM acquired a 5 percent stake in the company. GM made this move partially in response to the growing popularity of subcompacts in the U.S. market. After the purchase, Suzuki products were rebadged and sold as GM vehicles on American shores.

In 1985, the carmaker launched an American outpost, and for the first time, Suzuki-branded vehicles became available in the U.S. The company's first model was the Samurai; available as either a convertible or a hardtop, this compact SUV met with immediate success. However, the Samurai's glory days were short-lived.

In 1988, Consumer Reports published an article in which it deemed the Samurai unsafe, saying it was more likely than most to roll over during certain maneuvers. Suzuki took the magazine to court (and eventually won) but the bad publicity from the article cast a pall on the Samurai that never quite lifted. Suzuki soldiered on, though. By the end of the decade its total aggregate car production had topped 10 million units, and its line had grown to include the compact Swift and the Sidekick, a compact SUV.

During the '90s, Suzuki expanded its reach to include territories like Egypt, Vietnam and Hungary, and launched new models like the Cappuccino convertible and the lightweight Wagon R. On U.S. soil, Suzuki rolled out the Esteem, dropped the beleaguered Samurai, introduced the two-seat, T-topped X-90 and replaced the Sidekick with the Vitara and Grand Vitara.

Suzuki and General Motors purchased ailing Daewoo in 2004, and two of that manufacturer's vehicles were rebadged and given new life as Suzukis. The Suzuki Forenza and Suzuki Verona both had former lives as Daewoo cars.

Through the first decade of the 2000s, Suzuki continued to evolve and improve its models, culminating in the Kizashi, a midsize sedan that was good enough to challenge segment front runners. But with overall sales and consumer interest stuck on a downward trend, Suzuki finally announced bankruptcy and termination of its U.S. vehicle operations in late 2012. The company plans to honor existing warranties, and some Suzuki dealers will continue to provide parts and service.

User Reviews:

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  Not what I Expect - 2005 Suzuki Verona
  By Rik - March 15 - 4:43 am

  With just 3,400 miles on it, the "air bag" light indicator in my 2005 Suzuki Verona came on while I was driving. I took it to the dealer where I bought it and I was told theyre too busy. I stressed to the technician / mechanic if he understand the consequences that may arise if something happens. The techs response is: "oh nothing will happen". I told this guy: "are you going to compensate my kids if something happens?" I asked for his manager and the owner of the dealership, and guess what: of course the response is: "theyre not in." Now, Im still driving the car with the airbag indicator lights on the dashboard and just waiting for what will happen. Hopefully Suzuki and the dealer will pay for it if something happens.

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  Very Dependable - 2006 Suzuki Forenza
  By firebirdz - March 11 - 10:40 am

  I have had this vehicle for 3 years and I couldnt be happier. I have never had a car work so great for me. It has never broken down. I have had to take it in for a couple of repairs/recalls but all in all spent maybe $600 in the three years for maintain (Well that isnt counting registering the auto which is expensive). You would think a car that looks so small would be small on the inside but it is so roomy!! I do have an issue with the paint on the plastic door jams it chips very easily. So I had so sand them and re paint them myself which is okay. The biggest thing for everyone to remember, take your auto in or perform 10,000 mile check ups and it will take care of you regardless.

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  SX4 - Fun to Drive - 2008 Suzuki SX4
  By Connie - March 11 - 10:00 am

  This car is my 5th Suzuki and the best one so far! Its easy to park, drive with great visibility with all the windows. The color (copper) is what attracted my attention, but I love the keyless entry and ignition too! Mostly town driving and am getting 23 to 24 mpg.

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  Multiple problems down the line - 2001 Suzuki Grand Vitara
  By waguy2012 - March 9 - 7:24 pm

  The one thing that i have a problem with this car is that it leaks a ton in the front. I had it checked and multiple mechanics cant figure out where the leak is coming from. My dad and i replace some seals in the front and the leak stopped for a bit but then it comes back with a vengeance. When we go one drives just 10-15 miles down the road there will be small puddle of oil on the ground. Just a little annoying and i hope it doesnt lead to bigger problems. We are at 175,000 miles on it so i guess thats what we get for having it so long! :) Also, be caeful w/ the air conditioning. Ours went out and now to replace it will cost $$$$$$. Rather wait to get a new car than pay for repairs.

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  One Fun Ride - 2007 Suzuki Grand Vitara
  By Mizuki - March 8 - 2:43 am

  I just got this rascal. I originally was looking for an Acura MDX, Honda Pilot or CR-V. My salesman suggested I check out the Grand Vitara since it would be a secondary vehicle. I did and bought it before even driving it. Ive owned Hondas since 1982 and this is my first venture to another brand. The warranty was the major factor but the "coolness" of the SUV sealed the deal.

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  Suzuki XL-7 Limited - 2003 Suzuki XL-7
  By X3 - March 8 - 2:00 am

  The all new 2003 Suzuki XL7 rocks! With its brand new redesigned interior, and steady handling, it makes it the best suv on the market. (in its category).

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  Dont buy a grand vitara (WARNING) - 2007 Suzuki Grand Vitara
  By theresaarn - March 8 - 12:13 am

  WARNING This car is a piece of junk, dont dare buy one. Anyone who tries to convince you to buy this junker is pulling your leg. I bought a brand new 2007 grand vitara and I must say it is the worst car EVER! I have only had it for a little of a year and the back tires are bald with only 20,000 miles on it. You feel like you are in a tin can that is bouncing around on the road. If you really want to find out how this car rides, get in the back seat and let someone else drive it. You will be so uncomfortable. The leather is the very cheap stuff and you can tell just by looking at it. When you have the heat or the air on you feel like you are in a wind tunnel ( no kidding).

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  9th Suzuki product and going strong! - 2011 Suzuki SX4
  By timber20 - March 7 - 7:49 pm

  I have owned other vehicles and dollar for dollar Suzuki rocks the things that are important to me, reliability, safety and great gas mileage. We have a SX4 Crossover and an Xl7 currently and total cost of ownership per year, including insurance and maintenence is less than 1200.00 for both of them. They have the highest safety ratings in their class and I never have to do anything but wiper blades, tires and brake pads, ever. I recommend Suzuki for Colorado drivers who investigate and find the best car for their money

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  In a different class - 2007 Suzuki Grand Vitara
  By gren - March 7 - 6:36 am

  The Grand Vitara shouldnt be place in the same category as any other compact "S.U.V." because it is actually built with proper 4WD running gear. The GV is the only vehicle in this "class" that offers a strong body construction and low-range gearbox. When driving this car it feels a lot bigger than the RAV4. It might not drive like all the others in this class on the black top (car like) but off-road, the Suzuki has no competition.

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  Lots of Fun .... BUT - 2011 Suzuki Kizashi
  By rpbsp - March 5 - 3:48 pm

  Bought my Kizashi 6 months ago and have 14,000 miles on it. Fun to drive, sleek appearance and great gas mileage. However, the longer you live with it, the more it shows its weak design points. Two major complaints. 1. the paint is paper thin-chips if you look at it the wrong way. 2.windshield washers are useless for winter driving. they freeze after 1 squirt and that first squirt doesnt even hit the windshield. The car could be considered unsafe to drive in messy winter roads ... zero visibility.