electro^plankton: Suzuki Splash Concept

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September 16, 2006

Suzuki Splash Concept

Suzukisplashconcept 01

UPDATED:
The Splash is set for production in late 2007 under a new name. The source engine is based off their Busa engine used in their super sport street bikes - a 1200cc 16-valve four-banger. To top it off, this super hatchback will get 78 mpg. Not too shabby Suzuki, not too shabby at all.

My love for Suzuki grows each time they release a new concept. The company def. has the design chomps and the technology to back up their ideas. Unfortunately there's still this anti-Suzuki mentality in by most Americans who still remember the cheap dinky cars of yore. As with any new brand trying to establish itself in a crowded market place, going budget is less risky and besides, not all of us can afford 20k+ cars.

Enter Suzuki Splash - the company's vision of a production ready mini MPV concept car (hatchback). Unveiled at Paris last month, the car wears Suzuki's new concept grill, LED lights that sweep across the hood and rear lights that reach around the entire rear window. As with most of Suzuki's current lineup, the Splash is powered by a powerful yet very fuel efficient four-banger. While the exterior is all high-tech and futuristic, the interior is minimal and slightly retro. Replace the center stack with a more production ready dash, change out the seats, and use real rear-view mirrors instead of cameras and I can see this thing flying off the lots - even putting some pressure on current segment leaders (HELLO HONDA & SCION).

All images from Jalopnik because I'm too young to try and screen capture the website's seizure inducing flash animation.

UPDATE via gizmag

more pictures after the jump

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