- Filed under: New York Auto Show, Sedans/Saloons, Suzuki
Click above for a high-res gallery of the (apparently D.O.A.) Suzuki Kizashi
Reports of the premature death of the Suzuki Kizashi are apparently... premature. After a story surfaced yesterday detailing Suzuki's cancellation of its mid-sized sedan program, the scribes at Automotive News went to the source to get the details. Suzuki spokesman Jeff Holland told AN, "The production version will debut at this year's New York auto show in April." So there. When the Kizashi concept was revealed at last year's New York show, it garnered a fair amount of praise thanks to the sedan's swooping lines and road-hugging proportions. The Kizashi has been spied doing laps around the Nurburgring and for a mainstream mid-size sedan that can't be a bad thing.
[Source: Automotive News - sub. req'd]Reports of Suzuki Kizashi's demise highly exaggerated, coming to NY originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 06 Jan 2009 19:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments - Filed under: Spy Photos, Crossovers/CUVs, Hatchbacks, Suzuki
Following in the footsteps of its European twin, the Fiat Sedici, Suzuki is slightly reworking its SX4 Crossover for next year. You'd be forgiven if you didn't notice - all of the revisions are quite subtle - but the whole front fascia has been slightly remodeled. The most obvious change is to the grille area, which now has a slightly smaller opening that's flanked by new concave recesses for the fog lights. Apparently, the faux rear skid-plate has been redone as well. Like we said: minor, discreet changes.
Inside, the Sedici has been upgraded with dual zone climate controls, so it would make sense that the SX4 would benefit from this new feature as well. We don't expect any powertrain changes, which is just fine with us. We thought that the SX4 was plenty peppy with its standard 2.0-liter DOHC engine's 143 horsepower and 136 lb-ft of torque when we had the sedan model in our garage earlier this year.
[Source: Carscoop]Spy Shots: Suzuki SX4 getting facelift too originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 31 Dec 2008 18:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments - Filed under: Economy, Safety, Chevrolet, Chrysler, LLC., Ford, Hyundai, MINI, Saturn, Suzuki, Toyota
Click above for a gallery of high-res IIHS crash carnage
Recent testing indicates that new cars are safe, regardless of their relative size. No surprise, then, that most of the latest 2009 model-year small cars tested by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety performed fairly well. Included in this round of testing were the Chevrolet HHR, Chrysler PT Cruiser, Ford Focus, Hyundai Elantra, Saturn Astra, Suzuki SX4, and Toyota Matrix. All seven of these machines (remember too that the Pontiac Vibe uses the same underpinnings as the Matrix) scored "good," the highest rating available, for occupant protection in frontal crashes, and only the newest designs -- the SX4, Matrix and Vibe -- scored that high in side crash testing.
The poorest performer of the group, Chrysler's PT Cruiser, also happens to be the oldest design. This being the case, it's lowly "poor" rating in side and rear crashes, due in large part to its ineffective head restraints and lack of rear side-mounted airbags, isn't too shocking. The HHR and SX4 also scored only marginally better in seat/head restraint testing. The latest MINI Cooper was also smashed for science, and it performed fairly well for a car of its diminutive proportions. For a complete recount of the IIHS results, click past the break. Feeling an unhealthy desire to see the aftermath? Check out our gallery below.
[Source: IIHS]Continue reading SX4, Matrix score Good on IIHS tests, PT Cruiser... not so much
SX4, Matrix score Good on IIHS tests, PT Cruiser... not so much originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Dec 2008 15:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Comments - Filed under: Motorsports, Suzuki
Another one bites the dust. Today was the deadline for manufacturers to announce their intentions to race in the FIA World Rally Championship for 2009, and Suzuki saw fit to let its entry expire after just a single year of competition. The Japanese automaker calls the move a countermeasure to "the contraction of the automotive sales caused by recent global economic turmoil." In other words, fewer car sales mean less excess money for racing. Worse, Suzuki says it expects things to stay bad for the foreseeable future, so riding out the storm wasn't a possibility.
Suzuki was just beginning to see some success in WRC, finishing in the top five for the last two races of the season with its SX4 WRC racer. The manufacturer's Swift Cup will remain active in 2009. This move follows rival automaker Honda's announcement that it would be suspending Formula 1 and AMA Roadracing competition, also a result of the global economic downturn. Thanks for the tip, everyone!
[Source: World Rally Championship]Suzuki suspends WRC program originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 15 Dec 2008 17:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments - Filed under: I.C.E., Suzuki, Motorcycles
We've been enamored with the idea of stuffing a Suzuki Hayabusa-derived V8 engine into an appropriately light and sporty four-wheeled conveyance since we first learned of such a powerplant's existence last Spring. The task of creating a 'Zuki-powered sled is set to become significantly easier now that Hartley Engineering has managed to rework the 'Busa block a bit. An entirely new crankcase has been designed and hewn from a huge chunk of 6061 T6 aluminum. It may not be a V8, but this new inline-four engine, known as the H2, is a diminutive powerhouse that can bolt right up to a standard automotive transmission. Why is this a big deal? Motorcycle gearboxes generally don't have a dedicated reverse gear and usually output their high-revving power via a chain. Now, the prospect of a 140-pound engine with over 200 horses powering something along the lines of a Super 7 has us salivating once again. Those with equally imaginative minds can now begin plotting their next projects, as the H2 is expected to be ready for purchase in early '09.
[Source: Hartley Enterprises via The Kneeslider]Hartley reworks Hayabusa powerplant for easy use in autos originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 10 Dec 2008 19:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments - Filed under: Car Buying, Trucks/Pickups, Suzuki
Click above for high-res image gallery of the 2009 Suzuki Equator
Suzuki has just released pricing information for its brand-new Equator midsize pickup truck, and, not surprisingly, it apes the asking price of its Nissan Frontier platform-mate. For 2009, the Equator will start at $17,995, just a few hundred bucks more than the Frontier at $17,460. That base sum will get you a 2.5L four-cylinder engine with 152 horsepower and 171 lb-ft of torque in an extended cab package with a five-speed manual transmission and two-wheel drive. Of course, those wanting or needing more can opt for a powerful 4.0L V6 engine, five-speed automatic transmission, four-wheel drive and four real doors. A fully-loaded RMZ-4 model will easily top the $30,000 mark.
Also priced is the newly-reworked Grand Vitara, which is equipped with a choice of two new engines. Base four-cylinder models begin changing hands at under $20,000, while top-level Luxury models with a 3.2L V6 engine powering all four wheels begin at $25,649. Check out the full press release from Suzuki after the jump.
[Source: Suzuki]Continue reading Suzuki Equator priced from $17,995
Suzuki Equator priced from $17,995 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 09 Dec 2008 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Comments - Filed under: Economy, Japan, Suzuki
Click above for a hi-res gallery of the Suzuki Alto Lapin
Sporting a name that could roughly mean "high pitched rabbit" is loveably quirky, and so it fits that the name is affixed to a kei car. Suzuki's 660cc microcar, styled in the same idiom that has shaped Nissan's Cube, though the 'Zuki calls to mind the original Mini more than other squared-off micros. The styling is about the only thing that Suzuki hasn't changed on the Alto Lapin, which has been on sale since 2002. There are upgrades to the platform, powertrain, and interior, making the Alto Lapin a virtually new vehicle. The interior rework brings a newfound sense of space, if that can truly be said about anything so tiny, and the stylish design is rendered in classy materials. A new CVT makes the most of the 53 naturally aspirated or 63 turbocharged horsepower while delivering nearly 58 mpg. The car, with its inherent cuteness, is aimed at women buyers (like many other keis, it's offered in pink), and there's a whole line of "Lapin Goods" to go along with the car. With a price between $11,000 and $15,000, there's some scratch left over for trinkum that will make you nearly as stylish as your Alto Lapin. Click here for a translated version of Suzuki's press release.
[Source: Suzuki via Autofiends]Upgraded Bunny: Suzuki unveils updated Alto Lapin originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 30 Nov 2008 16:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments - Filed under: Economy, Videos, SMART, Suzuki, Motorcycles
Click above to watch the video of a stunting smartabusa
Stunting on a Suzuki Hayabusa is crazy in its own right, but stunting in a smart fortwo? Now that takes some real effort. While the bike's got the power to wheelie all day long and its dual front discs are more than powerful enough to raise the rear tire just as far as your guts allow, that's not really the bike's intent. Still, it's much more suitable for the activity than the smart fortwo with its lazy 70-hp three-cylinder and skinny tires, right? Well, maybe not. Take a good look at the video after the break for visual proof that the smart, when properly equipped, makes a fine stunt ride. Of course, in this situation, properly equipped equals a major horsepower infusion via the aforementioned Suzuki Hayabusa, along with some major front brake modifications. Seriously, ever see a smart fortwo perform a tail-whip? Neither had we, until today.
[Source: Autofiends]Continue reading VIDEO: Hayabusa-powered smart , or... a rolling death-wish on skinny tires
VIDEO: Hayabusa-powered smart , or... a rolling death-wish on skinny tires originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 21 Nov 2008 19:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments - Filed under: GM, Suzuki, Earnings/Financials
General Motors CEO Rick Wagoner mentioned last week that, in addition to selling the HUMMER brand, other assets were being evaluated for sale, as well. While no other brands are likely to be sold off besides HUMMER, GM did announce this morning that it's selling all of its remaining stock in Suzuki. GM owns 16,413,000 Suzuki shares, which is about 3% of the Japanese automaker's traded stock. The value of the sale is estimated at $230 million, all of which should help keep the lights on at GM for an extra day or two if some form of government aid isn't approved this week by Congress.
Despite selling off its remaining interest in Suzuki, GM is still very much interested in continuing the two automakers' working relationship and may end up repurchasing a stake in the future. The giant American carmaker's interest in its Japanese competitor has fluctuated over the years, peaking in 2001 when it held over 20% of Suzuki's outstanding shares. In 2006, however, it sold 17.4% before today's unloading of the remaining 3%.
[Source: General Motors]Continue reading GM selling remaining Suzuki stake for $230M
GM selling remaining Suzuki stake for $230M originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 17 Nov 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Comments - Filed under: In the Autoblog Garage, Economy, Sedans/Saloons, Suzuki
Click above for high-res gallery of the 2008 Suzuki SX4 Sport with TRIP
For the 2009 model year, Suzuki will begin offering navigation as standard equipment on all SX4 Sport models. Starting at a buck under 16K, the new 'Zook is the cheapest car in America so equipped, and that news was very well received by the media and car shoppers alike. In fact, so positive was the response, the decision was made to begin offering the GPS navigation about six months early as part of the TRIP package. We were intrigued by the idea of a low-cost commuter car coming standard with such a desirable feature, so we decided to procure one such TRIP-equipped 2008.5 SX4 Sport for testing. Is the navigation nothing more than a gimmick to get you into a sub-standard car, or does the SX4 have more going for it than just being well equipped? Read on to find out.
Photos Copyright (C)2008 Jeremy Korzeniewski / Weblogs, Inc.Continue reading In the Autoblog Garage: 2008 Suzuki SX4 Sport with TRIP
In the Autoblog Garage: 2008 Suzuki SX4 Sport with TRIP originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 29 Oct 2008 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Comments - Filed under: Spy Photos, Sedans/Saloons, Suzuki
Click above for a high-res gallery of the Suzuki Kizashi
When the Suzuki Kizashi 3 concept bowed in New York, we were smitten by the sedan's aggressive lines and low-slung stance. But after seeing some rudimentary patent drawings of the production model, we were seriously concerned that everything we loved about Suzuki's new sedan would be lost in translation. Finally, some glimmer of hope has arrived.
KGP caught a Kizashi mule in Germany before it set off on its mandatory 'Ring run, and with a modicum of camo and some artfully placed tape, the prototype laid most of our concerns to rest.
Although the exaggerated shape and massive fender flares of the concept has been eschewed for something a bit more sedate, the majority of the lines remain, along with the sculpted headlamps and broad rear shoulders. Unfortunately, things begin to go slightly awry in the rear, where the chunky C-pillar and 1-series look-alike lights join an upkicked trunk and a bulbous bumper. But overall, our gripes are minor, and with power rumored to be provided by either a 300 hp, 3.6-liter DOHC V6 driving all four wheels or a 2.5-liter four-cylinder putting power down to the front rollers, we think this might be the first in a string of new models from Suzuki that could finally bring it up to par with its cross-town competitors in Japan.
Spy Shots: Suzuki Kizashi spied in Germany originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 28 Oct 2008 17:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Comments - Filed under: Suzuki, Motorcycles
Click above for high-res gallery of 2009 Suzuki GSX-R1000
The Suzuki GSX-R1000 has been around since 2001, replacing the venerable 1100 sportbike that couldn't quite match the performance of the sensational Yamaha R1 that was introduced in 1998. Ever since, the big Gixxer has been battling it out with the other Japanese literbikes for the outright performance crown. For 2009, the model gets evolutionary changes that are meant to eke that extra bit of speed out of the platform, which has shed a few pounds off the slightly porky model of the past few years. One instantly recognizable update is the new dual exhaust cans, now made from titanium in a very swoopy shape. There's a slight bump in the engine's compression, which now has larger titanium valves for better breathing potential. The front forks also come from Showa and feature the firm's new Big Piston technology. All in all, it may not be as flashy as the ABS-equipped CBR from Honda or the new crossplane crank from Yamana, but Suzuki's definitely been in-the-hunt these last few years. We'll see how things play out on the track and on the sales floor soon enough. (NOTE: pics are of European model, we're still waiting for Suzuki to release images of U.S.-spec version.)
[Source: Suzuki]Suzuki unveils 2009 GSX-R1000 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 29 Sep 2008 17:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Comments - Filed under: Economy, Wagons/Estates, Japan, Suzuki
Click above for a hi-res gallery of the new Suzuki Wagon R Stingray
As of today, Suzuki has a new Wagon R on the market in Japan. It's joined by a new Wagon R Stingray variant (above) as well, and the duo will set about filling the shoes of their bestselling predecessors. The new Wagon Rs don't lose their signature boxiness, but they wear all-new sheetmetal and sit on a longer wheelbase. The standard Wagon R gets a friendly face with large, tall headlamps, while the sportier-themed Wagon R Stingray gets a chrome grille strip that runs between its thinner, horizontal lamps.
The rest follows the standard kei-car formula. Darker, more masculine colors characterize the Stingray, while the Wagon R clearly includes women in its target audience, sporting a color palette loaded with the lighter solids and pastels. Normally-aspirated and turbocharged 660cc engines are offered, mated to either 4- or 5-speed automatics or a CVT, depending on trim level. The turbocharged Stingray with CVT even gets paddle shifters to give drivers complete control over the 64 ponies corraled underhood. A snazzier, dark interior with some nifty lighting is also available in the Stingray.
Suzuki hopes to sell 18,000 new Wagon Rs every month, and if the previous generation showed us anything, we can expect to see a variety of spinoff models over time.
[Source: Suzuki]Suzuki releases new Wagon R, Wagon R Stingray originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 25 Sep 2008 16:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments - Filed under: Trucks/Pickups, Suzuki, First Drive
Click above for high-res gallery of the 2009 Suzuki Equator
Suzuki has chosen a rather dubious time to enter the pickup truck market with the 2009 Equator. As you are surely aware, trucks and SUV sales are way down from their apogee a few years back, and small cars like the ones that have historically filled Suzuki showrooms are all the rage. So, why would the Japanese automaker even bother with a mid-sized pickup truck based on the Nissan Frontier? That's a good question, and we aimed to find out when we grabbed the keys to Team Yellow's first-ever real pickup contender in the U.S. Read on to see what the Suzuki Equator has to offer.
All Photos (C) Copyright Jeremy Korzeniewski / Weblogs Inc.Continue reading First Drive: 2009 Suzuki Equator
First Drive: 2009 Suzuki Equator originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 23 Sep 2008 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Comments - Filed under: Motorsports, Suzuki, Motorcycles, Special/Limited Editions
Loris Capirossi, who usually races on two wheels in MotoGP, will give it a go on four wheels, though he'll be remaining loyal to the Suzuki brand in the process. The race will take place on November 8 in Aldershot, U.K. as part of the Suzuki Swift Sport Cup rally racing series that we told you about last April. The Italian motorcycle racer has driven in rally events in the past, but his low experience level against the talented crew of professional rally drivers will make the successful MotoGP racer a major underdog. As an added bonus, Capirossi will race against his motorcycling boss, Paul Denning, who is also racing as a guest at the Tempest Rally. That should be fun.
It isn't that uncommon for racers from one sport to take part in another. Recent examples such as Travis Pastrana and Michael Schumacher prove that success in one discipline can in fact equal a measure of success in another. For his part, Loris says he'll do his best to be competitive. We wish Capirossi the best, but we expect him to be back on his factory Suzuki GSV-R mount in short order.
[Source: Motorcycle.com]Loris Capirossi to race on four wheels in the Suzuki Tempest Rally originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 19 Sep 2008 08:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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Archive for the 'SUZUKI' Category
Thursday, March 15th, 2007
Last year, American Suzuki Motor Corporation (ASMC) launched its “Suzuki LIVE Series” (LIFE VEHICLES) – a line of brand-dedicated concept vehicles specially designed for life enthusiasts, adventurers and thrill-seekers. In concert with its “Way of Life” brand proposition, which promises products for active lifestyles, and to support the launch of the all-new XL7 and SX4, ASMC introduces four all-new “Suzuki LIVE Series” vehicles for 2007, illustrating how its cars and SUVs play an integral part of consumers’ everyday life.
The vehicles, coined BaseCamp for outdoor adventure enthusiasts; Flix for film and entertainment buffs; Zuk for motorcycle and racing aficionados; and SXBox for avid gamers; are on display at various auto shows and lifestyle events around the country.
Flix
Built by the Carlab of Orange, Calif., and based on the all-new 2007 XL7, the Flix concept offers film and entertainment enthusiasts the ultimate mobile movie experience. The Flix’s ultra-rich, super-clean and modern exterior accentuates the redesigned body of the all-new XL7. The XL7 concept is dressed in midnight black paint with platinum accents and deep crimson “theater red” perimeter LED linear emitters encircling the lower valence of the midsize SUV.
In addition to its eye-catching exterior appearance, the Flix is outfitted with an unprecedented in-vehicle movie system. After parking at the optimal film-viewing destination, Flix’s clamshell roof can be opened, revealing a maximum-size moonroof that serves as a 60-inch movie screen. Additionally, the XL7 concept’s front roof panel vents, giving way to a high-density digital projection system to display a family’s movie of choice. For those who prefer the traditional drive-in movie experience, Flix’s projection system can be positioned to display movies nearly anywhere – the side of a building, a billboard or almost any wall.
The interior look of the Flix resembles a contemporary private screening room, dressed in plush materials to evoke elegance and sophistication. The XL7 concept features four individual bucket seats that pivot 180 degrees to view the elevated giant screen. The Flix also is equipped with a next-generation, high-definition DVD player with integrated hard drive for maximum AV storage, a professional THX/SDS-theater quality sound system, pivoting quarter window speakers and red door/floor strip lighting to further enhance the in-vehicle movie experience.
Posted in World Cars, Passenger Cars, Tuning Cars, Automotive News, SUZUKI | No Comments »
Thursday, August 1st, 2002
Details info: Suzuki Aerio
The Photo preview - please click on the Link \”Review Big Image\” below
Alternative names:
Aerio (2004-) ()
Suzuki Liana (Europe)
Liana (2004-) ()
Suzuki Aerio Hatchback 5d
Sales Company:
Available version:
1.3 16v
1.4 DDiS - 1.4 16v CRD
1.5 16v aut.
1.5 16v aut. 4WD
1.6 16v 4WD
1.6 16v aut.
1.6 16v
1.8 16v aut.
1.8 16v aut. 4WD
2.3 16v aut.
2.3 16v aut. 4WD
2.3 16v
Previous version:
Variation:
Hatchback 5d
(2004 - )
Limousine 4d
(2004 - )
Assembly Plants:
Donors:
Posted in SUZUKI | No Comments »
Thursday, August 1st, 2002
Details info: Suzuki Alto
Info: 6th generation Alto, based on a new platform offers cheekier styling and more interior space. This model will not be exported.
Available version:
0.7 12v 3s-aut.
0.7 12v 4WD
0.7 12v 4WD 3s-aut.
0.7 12v 4WD aut.
0.7 12v aut.
0.7 12v
Variation:
Hatchback 5d (2004 - )
Posted in SUZUKI | No Comments »
Wednesday, July 31st, 2002
Details info: Suzuki Escudo (Mk.II.)
The Photo preview - please click on the Link \”Review Big Image\” below
Suzuki Escudo (Mk.II.) SUV 5d
Alternative names:
Suzuki Vitara (Canada)
Suzuki Grand Nomade XL-7(Grand Escudo) (Chile)
Suzuki Grand Escudo XL-7 (Asia)
Chevrolet Grand Vitara (Chevrolet - Argentina)
Grand Vitara (1998-) ()
Suzuki Grand Vitara (Australia)
Chevrolet Tracker (CAMI - Canada)
Chevrolet Tracker (Brazil)
Vitara - Grand Vitara (1998-) ()
Sales Company:
Available version:
2.0 16v
2.0 16v 4wd 103 kW
2.0 16v 4wd 94 kW
2.0 16v 4wd aut. 103 kW
2.0 16v 4wd aut. 94kW
2.0 HDI
2.0 HDI aut.
2.0 TDI 64kW
2.0 TDI 80 kW
2.0 TDI aut. 64kW
2.5 V6 24v 4wd 106 kW
2.5 V6 24v 4wd aut. 106kW
2.5 V6 24v 4wd aut. 118 kW
2.5 V6 24v aut. 118 kW
Previous version:
Variation:
Suzuki (Japan) Grand Escudo (Mk.II. Facelift)
SUV 5d
(1997 - )
SUV 5d
(Helly Hansen - S Limited)
(2002 - )
SUV 3d
(1997 - 2003)
SUV 5d
(Grand Escudo)
(2000 - 2003)
SUV Cabrio
(1997 - 2003)
Info:
This is Suzuki’s mainstream 4WD vehicle. It has been marketed under the brand identity of a “cross-country sedan”. The Escudo comes in 1.6-liter, 2.0-liter and 2.5-liter engine versions. The 3-door versions are equipped with 1.6-liter engines, while the 5-door versions are fitted with a 2.0-liter or 2.5-liter engine. Even for the V6 2.5-liter version, the sticker price remains just over the 2 million yen mark. Suzuki refined the Escudo in December 2000.
Assembly Plants:
Chevrolet (Argentina)
Chevrolet (Ecuador)
Chevrolet (Venezuela)
Prince Motors (Taiwan)
Suzuki (Indonesia)
Donors:
Posted in SUZUKI | No Comments »
Wednesday, July 31st, 2002
Details info: Suzuki Every / Carry
The Photo preview - please click on the Link \”Review Big Image\” below
Alternative names:
Suzuki Every / Carry Van
Sales Company:
Available version:
Previous version:
Variation:
Suzuki (Japan) Every+ / Every Landy / Carry(Export)
MPV
(Carry Pick-Up)
MPV
(Van)
MPV
(Wagon)
Info:
Assembly Plants:
Donors:
Posted in SUZUKI | No Comments »
