Addressing journalists in Lagos before the official unveiling of the Grand Vitara and the EECO Panel Van and passenger mini-buses, General Manager, Suzuki by CFAO, Aissatou Diouf, said that the model SUV was completely different from the predecessor models in terms of design cues, interior finishing and exterior design.
He disclosed that the Grand Vitara had starting price tag of N22m, while the EECO mini-buses cost N9.5m.
It would be recalled that last year, the franchisee sold over 3,500 units across all models, making the automotive outlet one of the most successful automotive dealerships in Nigeria.
According to Diouf, the Grand Vitara is a new SUV model conceptualised, designed and developed by Suzuki and also shares a number of collaborations with Toyota.
Conducting automotive journalists round the all-new Grand Vitara, the general manager pointed out that the front face with distinctive 3-point signature lamps, chrome grille bar, which connects right and left lamps, and polygonal grille adds up to give the all-new Grand Vitara a premium look.
Apart from the ventilated seats and 360 view cameras, it also offers built-in Suzuki Connect, wireless charging and rear AC vents that contribute to great comfort.
In addition to its smart hybrid, it also offers an intelligent electric hybrid, the first system for Suzuki to be introduced in some markets.
The 4WD variant is equipped with all-grip to select for the first time, a system that allows the driver to choose from four selectable driving modes.
Suzuki by CFAO also demonstrated its readiness to play big on the small mini-bus segment with the unveiling of the 1.2 litre 2-seater EECO Panel Van and the 7-seater passenger mini bus that will meet the needs of commercial transport operators and logistics operators.
Aimed primarily at last-mile cargo deliveries, the event industry, school runs, pharmaceutical supplies, florists and any other urban freight service, the EECO has a large rear single-door opening as well as sliding doors on either side to facilitate loading and unloading on any position or space.
The cargo box itself is 1,620mm long by 1 300mm wide and 1,070mm tall with no intrusion from the wheel arches.
The whole vehicle construction is quite ingenious with a good portion of the engine and the battery located beneath the front passenger seat.
