Suzuki aims to make a Splash at Frankfurt

Suzuki has provided the first images of an all-new minicar due to debut at September's Frankfurt motor show. Dubbed the Splash, the newcomer is based on the same platform as the popular Swift and will be targeted predominantly at the European market.

Suzuki says the Splash isn't the replacement for an existing model, but a "brand-new concept to satisfy the needs of demanding European customers in terms of roominess, compactness, modern design, aerodynamics, quality, driveability, performance and environmental friendliness"

The Splash is Suzuki's fourth entirely new model within three years. It follows in the wheeltracks of the super-successful Swift, Grand Vitara and the brand's most recent addition, the all-wheel drive SX4 crossover.

The new hatchback maximises interior space within compact dimensions thanks to a tallboy stance. Although the same length and width as the Swift, the Splash is around 100mm higher. As a result, Suzuki claims there's sufficient legroom for adults in all seats.

The safety equipment quota is impressive as it six airbags and Electronic Stability Program (ESP) will be standard fare in some markets.

In Europe the Splash will be available with a choice of two petrol engines: a 1.0-litre, three-cylinder unit with 48kW and a 1.2-litre, four-cylinder motor with 63kW. There's also a 1.3-litre common rail turbodiesel with 55kW.

Suzuki boasts of a "flat torque delivery at low and mid-range speeds help to ensure good driveability across the rev range while promoting fuel economy and limiting CO2 emissions."

In light of the growing need for environmental compatibility, emissions of all three engines with five-speed manual gearbox are between only 120-140g/km.

The Splash launches in Europe in the first half of 2008, but it's unconfirmed whether it will be offered here -- the fact that it's so similar in concept to the hot-selling Swift may render it redundant.

Suzuki sold 15,798 vehicles in Australia last year, thanks largely to the Swift, which alone accounted for 10,131 sales. It's a remarkably healthy turnaround, as the brand had just 7206 sales against its name as recently as 2004.

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