On North American shores a domestic might be its biggest competitor. GM, of course, couldn't let an opportunity like this pass them by, so its Chevrolet dealers will get a supply of new GMDAT models themselves. A version of the Verona will sport the familiar bowtie on its grille and Epica nameplate at its rear. Remember the Forenza that Suzuki Canada doesn't get? Chevy will offer it here as the 2004 Optra. The General's value brand will also feature its own version of the Swift, dubbed Aveo.
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| The Verona is very upscale inside and should be quickly accepted by loyal Suzuki customers . (Photo: Suzuki) |
Like the Suzukis, all are nice cars with extremely high perceived quality interiors. The Verona is especially upscale inside, passing my plastics quality 'tap test' with flying colors, and should be quickly accepted by Suzuki's loyal yet demanding clientele. There's ample head, shoulder, hip and legroom in both front and rear, and plenty creature comforts to satisfy those who decide to jump ship from a traditional midsize brand.
Inside, high quality cloth seats and woodgrain trim exude an ambience of luxury, while a 6-position adjustable driver's seat and tilt steering wheel optimize the driving position. The expected power windows, mirrors and door locks are present while its steering wheel with integrated audio controls puts the car a cut above. A premium leather package is available that wraps that steering wheel and shifter knob in leather while covering the seating surfaces in the same natural material. Also part of the package, the front seat cushions come heated with 8-way power adjustment. An auto-dimming rearview mirror adds to the convenience.
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| Key fob controls similar to those found in premium brands. (Photo: Suzuki) |
Only two items will come as stand alone options, including a power tilt-and-slide sunroof and 16-inch 7-spoke alloy wheels, because Suzuki made sure to add a load of convenience features as standard equipment. Standard items not mentioned yet include automatic climate control, a 6-disc in-dash CD changer, remote keyless entry, a remote trunk release, with key fob controls that are integrated into the key like premium brands, an anti-theft system, sun visor-mounted lighted vanity mirrors and a fold-out rear center armrest.