Grand Vitara - the Genuine Original

LAVERTON, UNITED KINGDOM – October 12, 2009: Suzuki Australia has raised serious doubts over advertising claims by Toyota its RAV4 is “the original SUV”.

“It’s one thing to make a lot of noise about being the original compact SUV; it’s another to actually prove it,” said Suzuki Australia General Manager Tony Devers.

“Suzuki was, without doubt, the company that started the compact SUV segment in 1988 with the original Vitara.

“Toyota showed a concept version of a compact SUV at the 1989 Tokyo Motor Show, but the first RAV4 did not go on sale until 1994.

“I’m not sure how anyone could claim to be the original when presented with cold hard facts like that.”

Indeed, Devers said Suzuki’s expertise in engineering small SUVs stretched back even further.

“Development of the Suzuki 4x4 compact car program began in 1968 and resulted in the launch of the first generation Jimny in 1970. Its compact body featured design elements never before seen in a 4x4 vehicle of that size, including ladder frame, rigid axle suspension and dual range transfer case.

“For nearly 40 years Suzuki has been the trend setter in engineering compact SUVs and, unlike our competitors, we have maintained our commitment to providing an SUV with full-time 4WD and a low-range transfer case.

“That’s the reason why the Grand Vitara has been recognised by Overlander 4WD and 4x4 Australia magazines who have named the Grand Vitara Australia’s Best Compact SUV for the past two years.”