Geneva 2008 : A-star

The forthcoming production model is an A-segment five-door hatchback reflecting a focus on world-class environmental compatibility and comfort. It will have a newly developed Euro 5-compliant 1.0-litre aluminium petrol engine with CO2 emissions lower than those of European competitors (target: lower than 109g/km). And like the already-launched Suzuki world strategic models, it will prove that sporty and exciting performance can be enjoyed together with outstanding fuel economy.

The new 1.0-litre aluminium engine will be produced by Maruti Suzuki India, and a manual transmission for it will be manufactured by Suzuki Powertrain India, an SMC subsidiary that's based beside Maruti Suzuki India's Manesar plant. Suzuki Powertrain India produces a 1.3-litre diesel engine, but SMC does not plan to use it in the new production car since the new 1.0-litre petrol engine environmentally generates the best result for this model configuration. SMC will study options for small diesel engines from Suzuki Powertrain India in future.

The Concept A-Star is the first concept car with which designers from Maruti Suzuki India's research-and-development division have been involved from the beginning of styling development. As such, it's an excellent showcase of Maruti Suzuki India's capabilities.

The production model that inherits some of the design themes of the Concept A-Star will be built at Maruti Suzuki India's Manesar plant and sold mainly in Europe but also in India and other countries. Production is due to start in October 2008. Full-scale production for Europe is due to start in December 2008 and will be followed by expansion for other markets around the world.

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Credits: Jarvis