At the Thailand International Motor Expo 2013 which commenced yesterday, Suzuki have world premiered their A-Segment hatchback through the A:Wind Concept. According to Suzuki, "it seeks to bring a fresh wind to the A-segment as a global compact car", and hence the name.
To put that in layman's terms, what you see here is the precursor to the next generation Maruti A-Star (Suzuki Alto for international markets).
At first glance, the concept bears dimensional similarity to the camouflaged prototype which is testing in New Delhi. However, since this is still a concept, expect certain design elements such as the lights, bumpers and wheels to be toned down in the production vehicle.
The A:Wind's interiors on the other hand seem production ready, save for the colors used on the dashboard and seats. The steering wheel and central aircon vents are shared with the Swift, while the door handles and circular aircon vents seem to be carried over from the A-Star itself.
Suzuki says that the distance between the front and rear seats is extended, and that the A:Wind delivers "class-leading" boot space. It is also confirmed that production will commence next year in Thailand.
The concept measures 3,600 mm x 1,600 mm x 1,540 mm (L x W x H) and has a wheelbase of 2,425 mm. A 996 cc engine paired to a CVT gearbox drives the front wheels.
Expect to see the production A:Wind at the 2014 Auto Expo in February.
Suzuki A:Wind Concept Image Gallery
Suzuki A:Wind Concept Press Release
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