In October 1999, SPH also marked another milestone event in its history when it took over the automobile operations of Suzuki in the country from Pilipinas Transport Industries, Inc. (PTII). The expansion greatly strengthened the company image and capability in carrying its four-wheel division.

 

In July 2000, Suzuki Automobile launched its flagship model - the Grand Vitara - with its all-new 2.5 liter v6 engine, building on the rich heritage of the Vitara model in the Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) market. Automobile enthusiasts can only look forward to upcoming new models, which will be launched locally after successful introduction of these models in the international market.

 

In the middle of the year, Suzuki introduced the Jimny 4x4. Powered by a 1.3L 16-valve engine, it was well accepted by the market as a very affordable SUV with the price of a car.

 

 In the same year, the Grand Vitara’s big brother, the XL-7, was launched in the fourth quarter of 2003. It was powered by a class-leading 2.7L V6 24-valve engine with 5-speed automatic transmission.

 

May 2005 was the launch of the Suzuki APV, offering the best value-for-money van in the local market. Powered by a 1.6L, 16-valve engine and with a seating capacity of 8 passengers, the APV had a price tag similar to a passenger car, making it a popular choice for big families.

 

A few months later, in August 2005, Suzuki launched the much anticipated Swift 1.5L hatchback and new Grand Vitara 2.0L. Both models were well accepted and unit allocations to dealers were sold out even before stocks could arrive.

 

In 2006, the Grand Vitara 2.7L V6 with 5-speed automatic transmission was brought in to cater to the luxury market. It was the first in its class to have a keyless entry and start system, 6 airbags, leather interior, cruise control and 17” alloy wheels.  

 

The following year (2007),in April, Suzuki introduced the answer to the constant increase in fuel prices worldwide – the Suzuki Alto. Right from the start, it was a well accepted car with its very pocket friendly price and fuel efficient engine. First time car owners were the main market for this vehicle.

 

After three successful years of selling the 1^st generation APV, Suzuki introduced in February 2008 the enhanced version, the Suzuki APV Type II. It now had a new coil spring rear suspension, bigger fuel tank, improved electronic control unit and choice of 8-seater GLX or luxury 7-seater SGX versions. SGX models were fitted with safety features such as dual airbags and ABS.

 

In May 2008, Suzuki launched the new Suzuki SX4 Sedan. Powered by a 1.6 liter engine mated to a 4-speed automatic transmission, the SX4 Sedan is Suzuki’s very first entry in the local sedan market.

 

Coinciding with the Philippine International Motorshow held at the World Trade Center in August 2008 was Suzuki’s launch of the Swift with manual transmission and Grand Vitara 2.4L 4x2 A/T with VVT. Since the Swift’s introduction in 2005, the local market was clamoring for a manual transmission variant to boost the Swift’s sporty image. For the Grand Vitara, the 2.4L VVT variant replaced the 2.0L version as the market wanted a more powerful and fuel efficient model.

Faced with the challenge of globalization and free trade that will allow importation of low-cost motorcycles, Suzuki is geared to formulate its new blue print for growth. Strategy is focused on increasing both the solo-ride market and the tricycle segment. With current local population of more than 80 million and as the country continues to industrialize, mobility becomes an acute necessity, and here is where the motorcycle comes to the rescue as a safe, economical, convenient and yet fashionable means of transportation. Indeed, Suzuki Philippines, Incorporated shall persist to do its share in accelerating the progress and industrialization of the country by introducing more dynamic products for both motorcycles and automobiles as well as programs for the Filipino motoring public harnessing the power of Suzuki’s Way of Life.