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 VehicleDETROIT, 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. (Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20000111/LATU004-a http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20000111/LATU004-b http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20000111/LATU004-c http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20000111/LATU004-d http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20000111/LATU004-e ) 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.