Suzuki prepares A-Star

The Suzuki motor corporation is preparing to release prototypes of its new A-Star model.

Forming part of a worldwide strategy designed for long-term growth, the A-Star is the fifth new vehicle unveiled by the company - following the Splash, which debuted at the 2007 International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt.

Now a concept version of the new A-Star is set to be revealed at the Auto Expo 2008 in New Delhi (January 9th - 17th).

At present Suzuki controls over 50 per cent of the passenger car market in India, where it continues to grow in popularity.

The production model of the A-Star will be manufactured in Maruti, at Suzuki's Manesar plant, and will be marketed mainly in Europe and other countries including India.

The vehicle is also the first car in which designers from the Maruti research and development division have been involved from the initial stage of its styling.

The A-Star is an A-segment five-door hatchback, with twin themes of comfort and efficiency, featuring an all new Euro 5-compliant one-litre aluminium petrol engine with lower CO2 emissions.

Production of the new vehicle is scheduled to start in October 2008.