Two Suzuki Models Named in Race for New Zealand Car of the Year

The new generation Suzuki Swift and compact Ignis SUV have been named finalists in the 2017 New Zealand Car of the Year Awards.

Nine motor manufacturers have cars in the top ten finalists and Suzuki is the only brand to have two or more models in the list.

New Zealanders will be able to vote for their favourite car in “a people’s choice” from 1 November and the winners will be announced on 12 December. The finalists will also be judged by the New Zealand Motoring Writers Guild and AA Motoring, the two organisations conducting the annual awards.

Suzuki’s all-new 1.2 litre Ignis five-door SUV, introduced earlier this year, has sold beyond expectations and has been a significant factor in boosting the Suzuki share of the total SUV market in New Zealand to 6.8 percent in year to date sales. This compared with 4.8 percent for the same January-September period in 2016.

Priced from $18,990 plus on-road costs, the eye-catching Ignis offers retro styling in a modern package with a brightly coloured interior that allows a high degree of personalisation. Keenly priced and well specified, the Ignis has generous space, great visibility and the latest technology.

With a distinctive blend of styling and modern design, the Ignis is a real stand-out in the small vehicle class. Its high SUV stance and bold front grille have made the car a genuine head-turner.

Meanwhile the completely redesigned Swift, launched in mid-year, has been re-imagined and re-engineered and early demand has reaffirmed the model as New Zealand’s favourite compact car. In sales so far this year, the Swift is a clear leader in the sub $25,000 light car category, capturing 23 percent of the class.

Roomier, more efficient and more refined, the latest Swift boasts crisp styling and flair plus an improved specification and a host of the latest technology.

The range topping RS model offers an advanced direct injection boosterjet engine providing exceptional levels of performance and fuel efficiency. The model also offers several advanced features, including adaptive cruise control that is a first for any Suzuki model sold in New Zealand, as well as a dual sensor brake support system on RS and GLX models boasting 5 Star ANCAP safety rating.

Swift pricing starts from a highly competitive $19,990 plus on-road costs and, unlike rivals, a manual variant in GL grade is included in the local range.