Why Suzuki

Why Suzuki

Why buy Suzuki? 

Choosing a Suzuki will see you into a future of enjoyable, affordable, worry-free driving in a car that makes you smile at every turn. And while a Suzuki might seem like the ‘fun’ choice, there’s a lot that goes into every Suzuki car to ensure it is one of the most sensible decisions you’ll ever make.

Suzuki’s history of engineering excellence spans over 100 years. Our ethos of design quality and production innovation results in a range of small cars and SUVs that are not only incredibly fun, they’re also renowned for their reliability. So that when it comes to ownership over the long term, Suzuki’s value is hard to beat. All backed by the Suzuki network, Australia-wide. 

Still weighing it up? Read on to find out more about Suzuki, and why it might be the perfect car for you. 

About Suzuki’s rich history
About Suzuki’s rich history

About Suzuki’s rich history

Is Suzuki a good car brand? 

The Suzuki brand has been around for over 100 years, and you don’t make it that far without doing more than a few things right. While other brands have come and gone, (ever heard of Tucker cars…? Exactly.) Suzuki’s hard work and dedication to innovation for good has taken the brand from strength to strength. From the early days making looms for the silk industry, to pioneers of the powered bicycles that led to our MotoGP success, to our expansion to automobile development after WWII, what makes Suzuki a great car brand can be seen in every model on the market today. 

Who owns Suzuki?

Suzuki Australia Pty Ltd is owned by Suzuki Motor Corporation, which is based in Japan. Suzuki is a proudly Japanese company, renowned for vehicle build quality and efficient production. 

When was Suzuki founded? 

Michio Suzuki founded Suzuki Loom Works in 1909 in Hamamatsu, Japan. 

When did Suzuki start making cars?

Suzuki started exploring car production in 1930, but was delayed by WWII. Post-war, Suzuki returned to auto manufacturing and released the first production car – the Suzulight – in 1955. 

A brief history of Suzuki

Foundation

1909
1909

Suzuki founded
Michio Suzuki founded Suzuki Loom Works in a small coastal village of Hamamatsu, Japan. Business boomed as Suzuki built weaving looms for Japan’s giant silk industry. 

1920
1920

Suzuki incorporated
Suzuki Loom Manufacturing Co. was incorporated and capitalised with Michio Suzuki as president. 

1930
1930

Suzuki diversifies
Despite the success of their looms, Suzuki believed diversification would be good for business, so the company began exploring small car production. Within two years, several prototypes were built. 

1939
1939

WWII halts car production
World War 2 paused Suzuki’s car production as it was deemed a ‘non-essential commodity’. After the war, Suzuki went back to building looms as the US started shipping cotton to Japan. Business was booming!

1947
1947

New Suzuki headquarters
Suzuki moved its head office to the present-day address in Hamamatsu. 

1952
1952

First motorised bike – Power Free
Suzuki developed its first motorised bicycle – the Power Free. The innovation and success of this bicycle – a forerunner to Suzuki’s motorcycle heritage – formed the foundation of the company’s growth.

1955
1955

First production car – Suzulight
Suzuki released the company’s first production automobile – the Suzulight, a 2-cycle mini-vehicle available as a sedan, light van or pickup. 

1958
1958

New Suzuki logo
The iconic Suzuki S emblem was created. Originally monochromatic – a black S on a white background – it looked modern and elegant. 

Expansion

1965
1965

First outboard motor – D55
Suzuki continued to diversify and innovate, leading to the release of the company’s first outboard motor, a 2-stroke, 1 cylinder engine with 4.0kW output. 

1965
1965

TC250 T20
The T20 Super Six put Suzuki on the international map with a 250cc six-speed engine and a top speed of 160km/h. The T20 was a huge sales success.

1965
1965

Fronte 800
Suzuki stepped out of the ‘kei’ (lightweight) vehicle class for the first time, with its first larger automobile, the Fronte 800. 

1970
1970

LJ series debut
Suzuki’s first 4x4, the 1st Generation Jimny (LJ series), became available in 1970. The 3-seat, 600kg, 360cc machine took the world by storm. Overseas, the LJ established a whole new market for fun 4x4 recreational vehicles. 

1974
1974

Wheelchairs and prefab
Suzuki continued to explore new segments, expanding production to wheelchairs with the launch of the Motor Chair Z600, prefab houses and storage sheds.

1977
1977

1977 DT5
Suzuki’s two-cylinder, 3.7kW (5PS) outboard makes a splash (or two).

1979
1979

Alto hatchback debut
The Suzuki Alto debuted with a 550cc engine, 2-cycle engine producing 21kW. An affordable hatchback for the masses.

1980
1980

Suzuki Australia founded
Suzuki Australia Pty Ltd, a joint sales venture, was established in Sydney, Australia, as Suzuki vehicles like the Jimny continued to grow in popularity.

1981
1981

1981: SJ Series Jimny
The world already loved the LJ series Jimny – and the 2nd Gen Jimny SJ series gained a reputation as 4x4 ‘giant killer’ with its new body styling, 1,000cc engine, improved off-road performance and comfort. True to its utility heritage, it still featured leaf-spring suspension softened with gas dampers at the rear and improved approach and departure angles. 

1983
1983

Swift is born
The 1st Generation Swift was known as the Cultus in Japan.

1983
1983

Mighty Boy arrived
An instant classic in Australia, the Mighty Boy was a two-seater coupe-utility vehicle that was easy to drive, packed with personality, and very affordable. It was classified as a commercial vehicle to benefit from lower taxes, and was the only ‘bonnet type’ utility vehicle in the 550cc era of the kei class. 

1985
1985

GSX-R750
The bike that changed the face of motorcycling – the GSX-R750 was the first true race-replica motorbike. A hyper-endurance, lightweight model that replicated a factory motorcycle. 

1987
1987

DT200 EXANTÉ
This powerful outboard leaves all others in its wake as it takes out the ‘Most Innovative Product’ award from the National Marine Manufacturers Association.

1988
1988

Vitara debut
Suzuki’s first cross-country 4WD, the Vitara was released as a unique alternative to conventional cross-country vehicles, with three doors, and available in hard top or convertible.

1989
1989

1989: Swift GTi launched
The new 2nd Gen Swift was also available as Swift GTi which revved up the fun with more power. The new sportier Swift option secured Swift’s perception as a lightweight, easy to handle car with race DNA.

1991
1991

Vitara got grander
A new longer wheelbase 5-door Vitara was launched, with more legroom, more luggage capacity and a new auto option to appeal to even more drivers.

1991
1991

Cappuccino convertible released
A two-seater roadster with a detachable hardtop, designed to meet Japanese kei car regulations and known for its fun, nimble handling and surprising performance thanks to its turbocharged engine. The Cappuccino became an icon! 

1994
1994

Pike Peaks International Hill Climb
Suzuki entered modified Vitara into the gruelling annual race to the top of Pike Peaks in the Colorado Rockies. The modified Vitara was victorious in the overall standings.

1994
1994

1994 DF9.9
Compact and capable, the DF9.9 and DF15 were Suzuki’s first 4-stroke outboards.

1995
1995

New V6 Vitara
The new Vitara showcased the first 2.0L V6 engine ever in a 4x4 vehicle.

1996
1996

Turbo-diesel Vitara launched
New turbo-diesel Vitara gave superb flexibility for off-road driving and economical on-road driving.

1997
1997

2.5L V6 Grand Vitara released
New 2.5L V6 engine Grand Vitara transformed the model again, with a new more comfortable interior. A shining example of Suzuki’s philosophy of uniqueness and market innovation.


1997
1997

DF60 & DF70
The world’s first 4-stroke outboard motor equipped with electronic fuel injection powered Suzuki to another NMMA innovation award.


1998
1998

3rd Generation Jimny
A new era of compact 4x4 motoring, the completely redesigned Jimny embodied the best of 90’s styling with updates to the body and chassis resulting in improved stability, comfort and responsiveness off-road.

1999
1999

Hayabusa released
The ‘ultimate sportbike’ – the GSX1300R Hayabusa set a new standard in the hyper-sports category. The Hayabusa became Suzuki Motorcycles’ flagship model.

2001
2001

GSX-R1000
The newest addition to the GSX-R family rewrote the rule books on performance, weight, handling and style, and would soon be dominating racetracks and awards around the world.

Innovation

2002
2002

30 million milestone
Suzuki global car sales hit 30 million – a huge milestone for Suzuki in less than 50 years of automotive production.

2003
2003

DF200/225/250 OUTBOARDS
The Miami International Boat Show was dominated by Suzuki’s first 4-stroke V6 outboards with the DF250 securing another NMMA innovation award.

2005
2005

New Grand Vitara
The evolved Grand Vitara was a practical, compact and affordable SUV that was a massive hit in Australia and around the world. The perfect family car, it still retained Vitara’s heritage as an off-road warrior. 

2005
2005

New Swift
Redefined the small car segment with a 1.5L engine, manual and auto option, new body style and tons of fun. From 2005-2008, global Swift sales hit 1 million.

2006
2006

SX4 and WRC
A small and sporty all-wheel-drive hatch. Suzuki entered FIA World Rally Championship with the SX4 in 2007.

2006
2006

DF300
Another revolutionary outboard, another NMMA innovation award.

2007
2007

Swift Sport born
Building on the runaway success of the Suzuki Swift, the Swift Sport upped the fun with more power from its new 1.6L engine, responding to demand for sportier driving without the ego.

2009
2009

Kizashi released
The new Suzuki sedan was a car for true drivers, with a 2.4L engine and all-wheel-drive option. Aerodynamic and sporty, yet practical for the family. Suzuki sedans had come a long way since the Suzulight! 

2010
2010

New Swift
Another new Swift, this model was just as popular thanks to its 1.4L engine and exceptional fuel economy of just 5.5L/100km. 

2011
2011

New Swift Sport
Off the back of the new Swift in 2010, the Swift Sport was released with updated styling and features. The 1.6L engine produced 100kW and was available in both auto and manual transmission.

2011
2011

DF300AP
The revolution continued with the debut of the DF300AP, which featured the world’s first Selective Rotation and won the 2011 NMMA Marine Innovation Award.

2013
2013

New SX4/SX4 S-CROSS
The Suzuki SX4 S-CROSS crossover SUV focussed on comfort and efficiency, while understanding the need for adventure.

2013
2013

ALLGRIP is born
The launch of the SX4 S-CROSS led to the development of ALLGRIP, founded on Suzuki’s extensive 4WD history and experience. Combining three values: Fun to drive, Peace of mind, High fuel efficiency. 4WD was now for all people in all situations.

2015
2015

All-new Vitara
The Vitara changed the game with its sporty and modern new shape and driver and passenger comfort, featuring the latest in technology and safety features.

2015
2015

50th anniversary of Suzuki Marine Business
Suzuki celebrated the 50th anniversary of the Suzuki Marine Business, now making outboards since 1965. 

2016
2016

Iconic Ignis
Hard to ignore, the Suzuki Ignis innovated the ultra-compact SUV with love-it-or-hate-it retro-futuristic styling, SUV ride height and a small footprint. 

2016
2016

ALLGRIP for All People
Suzuki celebrated 50 years of 4WD expertise with 3 ALLGRIP offerings – AUTO, for confidence in slippery conditions; SELECT, electronically controlled with four driving modes; ALLGRIP PRO, offering excellent off-road ability for adventurous drivers.

2017
2017

5th Gen Swift launched
The 5th Gen Swift kept the lines of the model’s heritage while retaining its reliable and fuel-efficient reputation. 

2017
2017

Katana debut
Suzuki forged a new street legend in the intimidating yet stylish KATANA. Like a blade, crafted and honed for precision and impact.  

2018
2018

DF350A
Australia got its first experience of the exclusive, NMMA innovation award-winning ‘Dual Prop’ system in this V6 4-stroke outboard featuring contra-rotating propellors.

2019
2019

JB74 arrived
4th Gen Jimny took the 4x4 world by storm. Honouring its heritage with retro features and modern tech resulting in a truly iconic look. One of the few vehicles with a ladder frame to enhance its off-road ability.  

2020
2020

Suzuki MotoGP Champions
Suzuki won both World Champion and Team titles at the 2020 MotoGP. A huge result and proof of the brands’ position at the forefront of engineering. 

2020
2020

DF140
The first in its class to offer drive-by-wire technology, cutting-edge tech that helps this outboard deliver even greater durability and performance.

2020
2020

DF90AWQH
Suzuki’s first commercial outboard line, the Cargo series is built to meet the exacting demands of commercial fishing.

2023
2023

GSX-1000GX
Combining the best of sport and adventure tourers, the GSX-S1000GX represents Suzuki’s vision of everything a luxury crossover bike can be.

2024
2024

New Swift Hybrid
Celebrating the 40th Anniversary of Swift in Australia, the Swift Hybrid made waves for all the right reasons. Taking the heritage of Swift as nimble, fun and affordable to new heights with its ultra-efficient hybrid engine.

2025
2025

FRONX HYBRID
Sophisticated styling. Advanced technology. Game-changing value. This all-new nameplate redefined what drivers can expect from a compact SUV. A new chapter is written…

Suzuki Reliability
Suzuki Reliability

Suzuki Reliability

Are Suzuki cars reliable?

Suzuki vehicles are known around town (and beyond) for their rock-solid reliability thanks to their careful engineering, durable construction, and efficient performance.  Every new Suzuki vehicle comes with a 5-year unlimited kilometre warranty, so that every driver has peace of mind, no matter how far your adventures take you. 

Simplicity in design

Suzuki’s design ethos favours simplicity, using fewer complex components to lower the risk of things going wrong.

Fuel efficiency and performance

Suzuki also has a reputation for building engines that are fuel-efficient and long-lasting, so they cost less to run and maintain over time.

Quality control

During production, Suzuki focuses on quality control, and our vehicles often perform well in harsh driving conditions.

Global presence

Suzuki's global presence and commitment to affordable parts further enhances the long-term dependability of Suzuki cars.

Good Value
Good Value

Good Value

Are Suzuki cars good value? 

If you want a car that is affordable to purchase, run and maintain, park a Suzuki in your driveway. Every Suzuki is built with the perfect blend of quality, durability, and affordability, enabling more drivers to enjoy the fruits of our decades of motoring innovation and expertise.  

In fact, the Suzuki Swift Hybrid is one of the most affordable hybrid vehicles on the Australian market and was awarded ‘Best Value Small Car 2025’ by Money Magazine.

Beyond the showroom, Suzuki’s lower ownership costs reward you for your excellent life choices. Learn more about Suzuki’s renowned reliability here

Suzuki Network
Suzuki Network

Suzuki Network

Is Suzuki all over Australia?

With a large network of over 90 Suzuki dealerships across our country, assistance is never far away. Our dealership network can help with all your sales and service needs.

Suzuki Genuine Service Program

Every new Suzuki comes with our Suzuki Genuine Service Program. All servicing is completed by a factory-trained technicians using the latest diagnostic software and Genuine Suzuki Parts to enhance long-term reliability, safety and re-sale value. Ensuring your vehicle works as intended, for longer.

How do I retain my Suzuki’s resale value?

Getting your Suzuki vehicle serviced regularly at a Suzuki dealership will help to retain its resale value, as we only use genuine Suzuki parts on all repairs and maintenance. Ensuring your vehicle works as intended, for longer.

Suzuki Community
Suzuki Community

Suzuki Community

Is Suzuki popular?

The Suzuki community is strong and proud, gaining traction locally since Suzuki’s arrival in Australia in the 1970’s. In that time, we’ve ditched the flared pants, brought them back again, ditched them again, and brought them back again – yet Suzuki ownership has never gone out of style.

Since 2022, we’ve been hosting national get-togethers for Suzuki drivers. We call them Suzuki Swarms, and they’re free to all Suzuki owners and their friends and families. A great way to meet new people and share the Suzuki passion that unites us.

There are also multiple Suzuki owners’ clubs around Australia, including Suzuki 4x4 and Jimny clubs, Swift clubs, Cappuccino clubs and much more.

Driving Fun
Driving Fun

Driving Fun

What are Suzuki cars like to drive?

At Suzuki, we believe that driving should be fun, and our vehicles reflect that passion! Whether it's the nimbleness of our compact cars that make city driving feel like a breeze, or the thrill of taking the rugged Jimny off-road, Suzuki brings an exciting driving experience to every journey. Our cars are designed to handle with precision, offering a responsive feel that makes each turn and acceleration enjoyable.

Plus, with a variety of models that cater to different driving needs—whether you're looking for a zippy ride or something a bit more adventurous—there’s always a Suzuki that will put a smile on your face.

With Suzuki, fun is only a drive away!

Hey Suzi: Suzuki’s 24/7 Voice Assistant
Hey Suzi: Suzuki’s 24/7 Voice Assistant

Hey Suzi: Suzuki’s 24/7 Voice Assistant

What’s the easiest way to book a Suzuki service?

When your Suzuki is ready for a service, Suzuki’s 24/7 personal service assistant, Hey Suzi, is the quickest and easiest way to book. Hey Suzi can handle all your servicing needs in one quick phone call, any time of the day or night. Hey Suzi uses advanced tech to schedule your service appointments instantly, answer your questions and take notes for your technician, to help your long-lasting Suzuki last even longer. To book a service faster, anytime, call Hey Suzi on 1300 054 555.

What (or who) is Hey Suzi?

Hey Suzi is Suzuki’s 24/7 voice assistant. Hey Suzi is the fastest way to book a Suzuki service, and can also sort you out with Roadside Assistance and help you get in touch with a Suzuki dealer when you need it.

How often does a Suzuki need servicing?

Depending on your model, a new Suzuki often requires servicing only once every 12 months or 15,000km, whichever occurs first. To find out more about your vehicle’s servicing requirements, enter your model and purchase date on the Suzuki Servicing page

Enough with the idling

Come for a joyride

Thank You

YOUR TEST DRIVE AWAITS!

We'll be in touch soon to arrange a time for you
to get behind the wheel of your favourite Suzuki.

While we understand that browsing the Suzuki website in anticipation is a pinnacle of the “internet experience”, sometimes it’s fun popping back to reality – especially a reality that involves you taking a joyride in the Suzuki model of your choice. Treat yo’self.

Please select a state first