X Marks The Spot For Suzuki

This Suzuki's certainly got the X-factor! The sleek Concept X will debut at the Detroit Motor Show in January and previews a potential new flagship 4x4 for the Japanese manufacturer.

Auto Express Car Reviews

By Ross Pinnock

20th December 2004

With a powerful V6 engine and four- wheel drive, a spokesman told us: "It's a car to test the market reaction to new design trends." That means features such as the triangular exhaust pipes and polished metal sills could make it to future Suzuki models, such as the Jimny or Grand Vitara.

The Suzuki is one of a raft of new cars to be unveiled at the event. Other styling cues bound to attract attention include the pillar-less design - a feature shared with the Land Breeze concept from 2003's Tokyo expo. Rear-hinged back doors already appear on Mazda's RX-8, but have not yet been seen on a roadgoing SUV.
The show-stopper also appears to have a lifting tailgate, and its inclusion could signal an end to the cumbersome side-hinged arrangement of Suzuki off-roaders. The concept is another statement of intent from the company's designers, who appear to be on a bit of a roll. The stylish new Swift supermini has already won praise ahead of its launch in Britain in May.