Suzuki Launches New Escudo (Vitara) in Japan

As in the past, it's expected that Suzuki will share the Escudo with General Motors. It has been thought that this time around,

Suzuki hopes to sell approximately 15,000 units per month of the Escudo in its home market. (Photo: Suzuki Canada)

Suzuki will be partnered with Fiat as opposed to North American GM products, helping Suzuki fortify its image as a purveyor of high-quality, affordable automobiles.

The Escudo will most likely make its European debut at the IAA in Frankfurt, Germany this September, while a North American debut would be scheduled towards the beginning of 2006 at either the Los Angeles or Detroit Auto Shows. In the meantime, Suzuki hopes to sell approximately 15,000 units per month of the Escudo in its home market, a lofty but attainable goal, provided that it is as good as it looks.