Driver and front passenger dual airbags are included as standard equipment though, a given in this class, while height-adjustable shoulder belts are not only safer but more comfortable.
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| Suzuki Canada is planning to grow to 30,000 units annually with the help of an increased dealer network. (Photo: Suzuki) |
No doubt Suzuki will grow the Verona to include features such as ABS brakes as their position in the market improves - American Suzuki is looking to increase sales threefold before 2007 and Suzuki Canada is aiming to follow suit, growing to 30,000 units annually while focusing on expanding their dealer network to 130 over the next 36 months.
Of course almost every automaker at this year's major auto shows have been projecting ultra-bold claims regarding market growth, making me wonder just where all these new buyer's are expected to come from. Obviously some brands will win and others will lose the fight for market share, but how will Suzuki fare?
Their uphill battle will be getting the word out about the new cars. The brand's U.S. ad spend has reportedly increased by 40% to do so, resulting in a total annual expenditure of $138 million (USD$100 million) - the Canadian advertising will most likely represent approximately 10% of the U.S. spend based on population figures.
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| If priced right the Verona should increase Suzuki's market share substantially. (Photo: Suzuki) |
If the ads do the trick and get consumers down to Suzuki dealerships, and then if the cars are priced accordingly, the Verona, as well as the new Swift subcompact, both displaying better than average perceived quality, should manage to increase the Japanese brand's market share substantially.
But if you happen to be interested in taking a closer look after reading this review, you'll have to wait a little while longer. The new Suzukis won't arrive in dealerships until early 2004.