Suzuki iM-4 Concept unveiled at Geneva Motor Show

Innovation is the need of the hour and so Suzuki has presented the iM-4 concept at the Geneva Motor Show. This concept previews an upcoming compact SUV that ducks under the four-metre mark and might be a reality in a couple of years.

According to Suzuki, the theme for this car was "Shape the Inspiration.” A small 4X4 that is efficient, yet capable off-road, and equally good on it has been the dream of many. The iM-4 intends to be just that.

A small vehicle from Suzuki equals the Kei-Jidosha product made exclusively for the Japanese Domestic Market. But, the IM-4 concept at 3,693mm is long enough to not fit the bill as a Kei car, also it gets a 1.2-litre DUALJET motor. It is also one of the SHVS (Smart Hybrid Vehicle by Suzuki) which has its benefits in the fuel-economy department. It can be driven on snow and can be taken off-road.

Its styling is a blend of innovation and retro design just as Suzuki claims it to be. A large bumper dominates the front, with a simple grille and the Suzuki logo placed in the middle with a chrome strip running horizontal to the logo. The 18-inch wheels look stunning and the concept looks neither evolutionary nor revolutionary instead as the theme goes, Suzuki has tried to balance innovation and the retro design. It measures 3,693mm in length, 1,705mm in width and 1,566mm in height.

While we are more than sure that the iK-2 concept (Hyundai i20 rival) will make it to India, there is some ambiguity over this one coming here. Despite, its dimensions and engine size making it eligible for excise concessions, our market is still not mature to accept a product like this. The question is will Suzuki take a chance and include the iM-4 concept-based vehicle in its Indian lineup?