Suzuki XL6 Concept SUV Offers the Best of Both Worlds
12 January 2000
Suzuki XL6 Concept SUV Offers the Best of Both Worlds; Once Again, Suzuki Sets the Mark by Creating a New Class of Vehicle
DETROIT, Jan. 11 -- Carving out a unique product niche once
more, American Suzuki Motor Corporation unveils its new concept vehicle, the
XL6, at the North American International Auto Show. Extending its tradition
of creating vehicles designed to fit consumers' evolving lifestyles, Suzuki
introduces the sport utility vehicle that can do it all: haul the kids, gear
and groceries -- on or off-road -- in affordable elegance.
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Designed specifically for the North American market, this latest, largest
and most luxurious Suzuki concept vehicle demonstrates an unsurpassed
combination of versatility and style. With leather seating for six and an
abundance of versatile storage space, the XL6 combines a lavish cabin, sleek
exterior and a rugged four-wheel drive powertrain.
The XL6 builds on Suzuki's award-winning Grand Vitara small SUV,
successfully introduced as a 1999 model. The Grand Vitara launch signaled a
renewed vigor at American Suzuki, extending its reputation for innovative
vehicles by offering the only V6 engine available in a small four-door SUV.
"The XL6 represents a preview of the next step in our long-term product
plan and a glimpse at the bright future of American Suzuki," said Rick Suzuki,
president of American Suzuki Motor Corporation. "As the market changes,
Suzuki will continue to strengthen its position with the development of
innovative, versatile, value-packed products. The XL6 is an example of
Suzuki's continuing mission to design vehicles that fit consumers' lifestyle -
- addressing both needs and wants."
Exterior Styling Cues
Bold and innovative, the new XL6 climbs to heights never before seen in a
Suzuki. With an aggressive stance and sleek appearance, this new concept
embodies the sophistication of a sedan and the functionality of an SUV. An
enlarged louvered grille spans the distinctively styled nose set between
bezeled headlights. High-dispersal fog lamps punctuate the substantial front
bumper. Appealing both to the eye and to the laws of physics, the
aerodynamically designed roofline features integrated roof rails and a rear
airfoil, complete with integrated brake light.
Flared fenders complement the body-side molding and further define the
XL6's powerful appeal, setting it apart from other SUVs. Tasteful accents of
polished chrome highlight the exterior door handles, wheel wells, body side
moldings and rear bumper, while tinted rear privacy glass, 18-inch, 16-spoke
OZ Racing wheels and an integrated tailgate/spare tire compartment with chrome
"Suzuki" logo, complete its uptown look.
Interior Appointments
Demonstrative of real-world utility, the concept XL6 combines a variety of
interior amenities. Warm beige leather captains' chairs in the first two rows
are combined with one third-row bench seat to welcome the driver and five
passengers. Cheery Sunburst Burl extends the upscale interior treatment,
trimming the front dash and the side-door window controls. The side-hinged
tailgate opens to reveal the recessed rear storage bay. Offering a wealth of
storage space, the third row seats individually fold down to increase the rear
cargo area. Built for comfort and safety, all six seating positions feature
three-point seatbelts and individual air conditioner vents.
The Automotive Division of American Suzuki Motor Corporation (ASMC), Brea,
Calif., was founded in 1985 by Suzuki Motor Corporation (SMC). ASMC markets
automobiles in the United States through a network of more than 340 automotive
dealerships in 49 states.
ASMC's parent company, Suzuki Motor Corporation, based in Hamamatsu,
Japan, is a diversified worldwide automobile manufacturer. Incorporated in
1920, SMC has 134 distributors selling vehicles in 175 countries.
XL6 Concept Vehicle - Technical Specifications
GENERAL
Vehicle Type Four-Door, Hard-Top
EPA Vehicle Class Sport-Utility
Powertrain Layout Front Engine, Rear/Four-Wheel Drive
Body Structure Ladder Frame with Boxed Rails
Body Material Steel, Body-on-Frame
Seating Capacity Six
SUSPENSION
Front Independent MacPherson Strut, coil
springs, stabilizer bar
Rear Rigid Five-Link, Coil Spring, Solid
Axle
STEERING
Type Power Rack-and-Pinion
Ratio 20.5:1
BRAKES
Type Power/Hydraulic
Front Ventilated Disc
Rear Drum
Parking Brake Lever-hand Operated
WHEELS AND TIRES
Wheel Type OZ Aluminum Alloy Racing Wheels
Wheel Size 18 x 9 in.
Tire - Type All-Season, Steel-Belted Radial
Tire - Size P255/50ZR18
RESTRAINT SYSTEM
Airbags Driver and Front Passenger
Safety Betboard
EXTERIOR DIMENSIONS
Overall Width 71.7 in.
Overall Length 181.9 in.
Overall Height 67.3 in.
Wheel Base 110.2 in.
Front Tread Width 62.4 in.
Rear Tread Width 62.4 in.
Minimum Running Ground Clearance 7.7 in.
Approach Angle 28.4 Degrees
Departure Angle 25.3 Degrees
INTERIOR DIMENSIONS
Interior Volume 155.4 cu. ft.
Headroom (front/middle/rear) 39.9 in./ 39.6 in./ 38.8 in.
Legroom (front/middle/rear) 41.4 in./ 35.9 in./ 35.9 in.
Shoulder Room (front/middle/rear) 52.8 in./ 52.6 in./ 49.6 in.
Hip Room (front/middle/rear) 50.7 in./ 50.6 in./ 43.1 in.