Having already slain the first-generation Mitsubishi ASX, Pajero Sport and Eclipse Cross, ADR 98/00 has now claimed the scalps of several key Suzuki models.
Mandating the fitment of autonomous emergency braking to all new vehicles imported into Australia as of March 1, ADR 98/00’s kill count has risen to seven following confirmation from Suzuki Australia the Ignis, Swift Sport, S-Cross and Vitara will all be discontinued this quarter.
The three-door Suzuki Jimny is also in the firing line but not quite done-for yet given the five-door XL comes with AEB straight out of the box.
In an email to carsales this week, Suzuki Australia managing director Michael Pachota said investigations into fitting the three-door Jimny with AEB from the factory were already underway, and that the implementation of these regulations had been factored into the product plans for the other affected models.
“Whilst we have stopped production orders of these vehicles, we will have inventory to continue sales, business as usual, in 2025,” he said.
“In effect, the product is not ‘axed’, more so each model specified is actually at the end of its life cycle, which was always part of our product planning.
“In 2025, we are clearing the way for new technologies; Suzuki Australia’s hybrid and electric journey has already begun in 2024 with new Swift Hybrid and will continue in 2025.
“Our hybrid products are in high demand from our dealer network and customers alike and we will be applying products to meet this demand.”
Headed our way in 2025 is the Fronx hybrid SUV (due mid-year), Vitara Hybrid (Q4) and eVitara, local details of which will be announced soon.
Pachota reiterated the brand has more than enough stock of the retiring models to carry out its immediate sales plans, the only catch being prospective customers will be limited to the specification and colour choices already on local soil as opposed to ordering a specific configuration from the factory.